The Daihatsu Hijet has earned its place as one of the most versatile kei trucks and microvans in Japan and beyond. Designed for compact utility, durability, and efficiency, the Hijet has gone through numerous generations since its debut in the 1960s. While its engines and drivetrains often attract attention, one of the most critical components in maintaining its reliability and comfort is the suspension system. Whether used for light commercial hauling, off-road exploration, or daily commuting, the suspension is what makes the Hijet practical in a variety of environments.
This article explores the evolution of the Hijet’s suspension systems, their role in performance, common issues, and what owners should know about maintenance and replacement. By understanding the suspension in detail, owners can keep their vehicles running smoothly with the right Daihatsu Hijet parts while also enhancing handling and ride comfort.
The suspension system is responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle, absorbing shocks from uneven terrain, and maintaining tire contact with the road. In the Hijet, suspension designs have changed over the decades to suit different chassis codes and configurations. Kei trucks are engineered to be lightweight yet capable, meaning the suspension must strike a balance between durability and comfort.
Front suspension designs often vary depending on whether the Hijet is a truck (Sambar-style cab-over configuration) or a van. In earlier generations, the front suspension was typically independent with simple coil or torsion bar setups. In later models, particularly from the 1990s onward, Daihatsu integrated more refined MacPherson strut systems, giving better ride quality for urban use while maintaining the ruggedness needed for commercial work.
At the rear, the Hijet traditionally uses leaf springs in truck versions to handle cargo loads efficiently. These multi-leaf spring packs provide strength and reliability for heavy-duty applications, though they can feel stiff without a load. On van and passenger-oriented versions, coil springs or torsion beam setups are more common, designed to improve passenger comfort.
Each generation of the Daihatsu Hijet introduced incremental improvements to its suspension design.
1960s–1970s: Early models (such as the S35 and S38) featured very simple suspension systems with leaf springs at both the front and rear. These were easy to maintain but offered limited comfort.
1980s: By the S65 and S66 series, independent front suspensions began appearing, improving steering precision. Trucks still retained leaf-spring rears, but vans saw the adoption of coil springs in some trims.
1990s: The S100 series, one of the most popular, introduced MacPherson struts in front. This gave a smoother ride and better handling for both urban driving and light off-road work. Rear leaf springs continued on trucks, while passenger vans used coil setups.
2000s to Present: Modern Hijets continue with MacPherson fronts, and depending on trim, rear suspension options range from torsion beam setups to reinforced leaf springs. With the demand for both cargo-hauling and passenger-friendly models, Daihatsu refined the suspension to adapt to various use cases.
This evolution reflects how the Hijet transitioned from being purely utilitarian to becoming a multipurpose kei-class vehicle.
The suspension system affects more than just comfort. For the Hijet, it influences load capacity, off-road ability, and even fuel efficiency. Trucks with stiffer leaf springs can carry heavier loads without sagging, making them ideal for farms, construction sites, or delivery work. However, this same stiffness can create a bouncy ride when unloaded.
Vans equipped with coil springs and struts offer better comfort, especially on rough urban roads. This makes them suitable for family use or passenger transport businesses. Off-road variants and 4WD versions also rely on suspension tuning to improve ground clearance and articulation, which allows them to handle unpaved roads, mud, and gravel.
Maintaining the suspension in good condition ensures stability when cornering, reduces uneven tire wear, and helps keep braking performance optimal. Neglecting suspension issues can lead to reduced safety and unnecessary strain on other Daihatsu Hijet parts, such as wheel bearings, tires, and steering components.
Like all vehicles, the Hijet is prone to wear and tear in its suspension system. Some common issues include:
Worn leaf springs: In truck versions, leaf springs can sag over time, reducing load capacity. This is often noticeable when the rear sits lower than usual.
Broken or fatigued coil springs: Passenger vans may experience broken coils, especially in older models or when used regularly on rough terrain.
Strut and shock absorber wear: As shocks lose their damping ability, the ride becomes bouncy, handling deteriorates, and stopping distances increase.
Bushings and mounts: Rubber bushings in the suspension arms or mounts for struts can crack and deteriorate, leading to clunking noises and vibrations.
Uneven tire wear: Often a result of suspension misalignment or weak components, uneven wear shortens tire life and reduces grip.
Identifying these issues early and replacing worn components with the right Daihatsu Hijet parts prevents further damage and ensures long-term reliability.
Many owners look to upgrade their Hijet suspension for either performance or comfort. For truck owners, upgrading leaf springs or adding helper springs can improve load-handling capacity. Some off-road enthusiasts fit aftermarket shocks designed for rugged terrain, enhancing durability and articulation.
Passenger van owners may choose coil spring upgrades or adjustable shocks for better comfort. Lowering kits are also available for those who want a sportier look and improved handling on paved roads, while lift kits can give extra clearance for rural or mountain driving.
Upgrading suspension parts should always be done with quality components designed specifically for the Hijet to maintain safety and avoid unnecessary strain on related systems.
Keeping the Hijet’s suspension in good condition requires regular inspection and timely replacement of worn parts. Key practices include:
Inspect shocks and struts every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers for leaks or weak damping.
Check leaf springs and coil springs for cracks, sagging, or corrosion.
Replace bushings and mounts if you hear knocking noises or experience excessive vibration.
Keep tires properly balanced and aligned to avoid extra strain on suspension parts.
Use only high-quality Daihatsu Hijet parts when replacing components to ensure proper fit and performance.
A well-maintained suspension system not only improves comfort but also extends the life of other mechanical systems by keeping everything balanced and aligned.
The suspension system is made up of interconnected components. Using low-quality or incorrect replacements can compromise safety and performance. Genuine or high-quality aftermarket Daihatsu Hijet parts are designed to handle the vehicle’s weight and driving conditions, ensuring long-term reliability. For example, shocks and springs must be calibrated to the vehicle’s weight distribution, and bushings must be made of durable materials that withstand constant stress.
Owners who cut corners with unsuitable parts often face recurring issues, uneven ride quality, or even damage to related systems. On the other hand, properly matched parts restore the Hijet’s handling and comfort to factory standards or better.
The suspension system of the Daihatsu Hijet is a core element of what makes the kei truck and van versatile, reliable, and adaptable to diverse needs. From early leaf spring setups to modern MacPherson strut and coil systems, its evolution reflects the changing demands of both commercial and personal use. Maintaining this system ensures safety, comfort, and durability, while upgrades can enhance load capacity or off-road ability.
For owners, the key to longevity lies in regular inspections, timely replacements, and the use of high-quality Daihatsu Hijet parts. Whether the goal is hauling heavy cargo, transporting passengers, or enjoying light off-road driving, a well-maintained suspension ensures that the Hijet continues to deliver performance and reliability for years to come.****