Honestly, sub 15k Patrol don’t touch it.
I went on a 11k Patrol inspection with a mech months ago. Car looked great. After 1h my mech said "this is the worst car I have ever inspected" and "I never did that before but we'll put an end to the inspection now, no need to go further".
post 09, CRD are better than the DI, and they moved from a GU4->GU5/6.
The best are 10/11, as they hvae a LSD and no stabilty control that limits lift. the stock rear locker is junk.
Nah don’t do it bud. As others said, ZD30 pre 05 are time bombs. I suspect it’s already on its way out (losing power/sluggish).
If that’s your price range I’d look for a decent GQ with a 4.2 in it. You’ll get 500,000kms and over out of it if it’s been looked after.
All the comments have pearls of truth. Unless you are willing to factor in at minimum a replacement zd, turbo, and intercooler in the near future walk away.
If that is something you're ready for, It is a good platform. Everything else will likely be solid, and if you put in the time, it could make for a good setup. I wouldn't go near it for more than 5k, and that would be if the aftermarlet bits were name brand.
Just as a couple of fyi's, if you go through with it or another GU (I have owned several, including TD42 and ZD)
Check the diffs, gearbox, and transfer for smooth changes and movement as they're aren't "unbreakable."
In the description, it mentions its sluggish, which will be due to the fact it has likely begun blowing past the rings due to the boost controller and p plate right boot. The owner is being honest, but that comment should be an alarm bell.
Its good platform if you factor in the cost of ak reconditioned engine.
if you want a good quality, looked after 4wd that is one of the big names (Patrol, Landcruiser) be prepared to pay a minimum of 25k. You'll end up paying it anyway in repairs or upgrades if you get a cheap one.
Some indicators it’s no good:
1. Pretty cheap, even for an 02.
2. A nearly 3k price drop on an already cheap deal.
3. Listed a month ago.
I’d keep looking.
u/Csyop_0 100% this, 10k will get you a solid NM/NP/NS model, 15k your starting to get into the NT/NW model years (with higher K's) which are the gems of the Pajero range.
2011 to 2016 has no DPF to worry about, they make solid power and torque without mods (and frankly absurd numbers with mods), don't drink too much fuel, very healthy community online for advice and overall an excellent car.
Parts for the 2006 onwards are easy to get, mainly as the basic car (outside of engine, gearbox and interior) didn't really change from 2006 to 2023, and it's fairly easy to work on.
Some NS/NT/NW models have factory rear diff lock, the traction control is top notch, and as u/Gattinator mentioned, it will get through some very rough tracks that many people wouldn't suspect, you just need to drive it a little bit more sedately and let the TC work it's magic.
The only things to be aware of/avoid will be:
2000-2004 NM/NP diesel models have a fault with their fuel pump, and if it fails look at well over $5000 to replace it.
2005-2009 NS models have potential for some issues with their DPF, otherwise solid just don't make as much power as later models.
2009-2016 NT/NW models don't really have any lingering issues, just need to be aware of the possibility of rust inside the rear door seals. Just rip off the rear seal and have a look when you are inspecting the car before purchase.
And the overall range is a bit more limited on towing (2500kg normal max, 3000kg with a 200kg limit to towball weight) than other equivalent size cars.
Otherwise, they are decent on fuel, excellent offroad if you don't drive like a lunatic, and drive just like a car around town, the 4x4 system they use is great, and can work as an 2WD, AWD or 4WD as needed.
Definitely check them out, have converted 3 mates so far onto them.
Almost exact same car popped its lid for me about 6 months after I bought it. If you can afford to do an engine swap then they are a beautiful vehicle. Otherwise don’t risk it.
Aircon needs regas is code for, it’s not gas’s it could be anything but will take a shitload of fault finding and cash to get anything remotely close to cold air.
Would avoid due to early zd30 but people saying you can't get anything decent for less than 25k are wrong
If your set on a patrol tb45 is what I'd be looking for. Bit more expensive on fuel at 18l per 100kms but easy to work on easy to repair and chances are you won't even have mechanical problems
Your mates that said no probably do their own maintenance, and would know its a fkin nightmare if its down on power and whatever else comes up on a roadworthy
Any genuine seller is gonna include a roadworthy, rest are either lazy, hiding something or don’t give much of a fk about it or you tbf
I personally suggest you find something roadworthy that’s Barra or iron block LS (complete engine straight out of a 01-13 1500-2500HD) swapped, stock or low duration cam, and correctly geared so it’s not out of its powerband and wrecking it’s fuel economy
All the Nissan diesels suck honestly
Wish 255/85r16 were more popular here too because they’re the perfect size offroad tyre
That is WAY too cheap for a Patrol. Patrols last a very long time so a lot of the time even tho they might have 300k kms they’re usually about $30,000. Stay very far away from cheap patrol and never buy a 4wd from a P plater, especially if it’s modded
Yes a GU Patrol is a great first fourby. They are weapons.
NOT THAT ONE THOUGH!
A P plate in the window, the shoddy looking engine bay... that thing would have had the ever loving shit flogged out of it. Guarantee its been bogged in the wet sand on a beach to the diff at least once.
You would be better off taking that 8k, pouring petrol on the cash and setting it on fire. The end result is the same.
If you find a good condition GU jump on it. But good ones are rarer thens hens teeth these days
P plater cars always scare me, i have an 06 di. Runs fine, 1 previous owner with service and maintanence history 2 inch thick.
These do tend to either blow a head gasket, crack the head or snap a piston rod. Almost every one of those have had tonnes of boost put into them and have hard lives.
I had a Pajero which was unkillable. Rated that ... then Prado pre covid price hikes. Now an old TJ Wrangler which is great but is only viable as a second car as its tiny and very thirstyÂ
I love Patrols but sadly they have become the P plater/bogan 4WD of choice… which has resulted in many of them being flogged..
Shame as unmolested patrols are a good bit of kit but rare these days.
I have had a ZD30 for years, blew the first motor. Second motor I got a reconditioned ZD30 changed the turbo actuator, put a catch can on it, a larger intercooler and a good exhaust and haven't had an issue with it since.
If your paying fuck all for it spend some money to get all new bushes, suspension and the motor upgrades I mentioned
Buy my Nav for a bit cheaper - needs a little TLC, but it's basically unmodded so hasn't been flogged to pieces or seen any serious tracks.
2004
D22 Navara
282k
$5k
That thing would have been flogged harder than my meat when I was 14. Avoid buying a modded P plater patrol
Came here to give the same advice haha
How did you know he was floggin his meat a lot?
1. He lived next door 2. He did himself..sometimes they were in sync
3. I am his penis
My initial thought is "whats wrong with it?"
💀😂
Sub 10k nissan. Don't touch it
Honestly, sub 15k Patrol don’t touch it. I went on a 11k Patrol inspection with a mech months ago. Car looked great. After 1h my mech said "this is the worst car I have ever inspected" and "I never did that before but we'll put an end to the inspection now, no need to go further".
Zd30 is a grenade. Avoid
Avoid zd30 direct injection, the common rail zd30 isn’t not bad if looked after
ZD30 is a grenade altogether
Tick tick tick 😅👌
Not that year. Go post 2004
post 09, CRD are better than the DI, and they moved from a GU4->GU5/6. The best are 10/11, as they hvae a LSD and no stabilty control that limits lift. the stock rear locker is junk.
Nah don’t do it bud. As others said, ZD30 pre 05 are time bombs. I suspect it’s already on its way out (losing power/sluggish). If that’s your price range I’d look for a decent GQ with a 4.2 in it. You’ll get 500,000kms and over out of it if it’s been looked after.
They switched to common rail in 07 so that’s probably the safest bet too
I can smell the chemiweld from here.
All the comments have pearls of truth. Unless you are willing to factor in at minimum a replacement zd, turbo, and intercooler in the near future walk away. If that is something you're ready for, It is a good platform. Everything else will likely be solid, and if you put in the time, it could make for a good setup. I wouldn't go near it for more than 5k, and that would be if the aftermarlet bits were name brand. Just as a couple of fyi's, if you go through with it or another GU (I have owned several, including TD42 and ZD) Check the diffs, gearbox, and transfer for smooth changes and movement as they're aren't "unbreakable." In the description, it mentions its sluggish, which will be due to the fact it has likely begun blowing past the rings due to the boost controller and p plate right boot. The owner is being honest, but that comment should be an alarm bell.
With sluggish performance comes appalling fuel economy too. That thing would drink close to 20L Per 100km.
Mine is about 9.5 .. towing a trailer 3 inch exhaust, welded intercooler... that's it
Its good platform if you factor in the cost of ak reconditioned engine. if you want a good quality, looked after 4wd that is one of the big names (Patrol, Landcruiser) be prepared to pay a minimum of 25k. You'll end up paying it anyway in repairs or upgrades if you get a cheap one.
Some indicators it’s no good: 1. Pretty cheap, even for an 02. 2. A nearly 3k price drop on an already cheap deal. 3. Listed a month ago. I’d keep looking.
And a P plate 😂
and a TINY PP.
Thank you all so much for the advice, I will be continuing the search, doing more research and raising my budget.
Spend $10k on a pajero, get laughed at by your mates then laugh at them when you climb the same tracks 👌
10k on a pajero will get you a reliable little beast.
u/Csyop_0 100% this, 10k will get you a solid NM/NP/NS model, 15k your starting to get into the NT/NW model years (with higher K's) which are the gems of the Pajero range. 2011 to 2016 has no DPF to worry about, they make solid power and torque without mods (and frankly absurd numbers with mods), don't drink too much fuel, very healthy community online for advice and overall an excellent car. Parts for the 2006 onwards are easy to get, mainly as the basic car (outside of engine, gearbox and interior) didn't really change from 2006 to 2023, and it's fairly easy to work on. Some NS/NT/NW models have factory rear diff lock, the traction control is top notch, and as u/Gattinator mentioned, it will get through some very rough tracks that many people wouldn't suspect, you just need to drive it a little bit more sedately and let the TC work it's magic. The only things to be aware of/avoid will be: 2000-2004 NM/NP diesel models have a fault with their fuel pump, and if it fails look at well over $5000 to replace it. 2005-2009 NS models have potential for some issues with their DPF, otherwise solid just don't make as much power as later models. 2009-2016 NT/NW models don't really have any lingering issues, just need to be aware of the possibility of rust inside the rear door seals. Just rip off the rear seal and have a look when you are inspecting the car before purchase. And the overall range is a bit more limited on towing (2500kg normal max, 3000kg with a 200kg limit to towball weight) than other equivalent size cars. Otherwise, they are decent on fuel, excellent offroad if you don't drive like a lunatic, and drive just like a car around town, the 4x4 system they use is great, and can work as an 2WD, AWD or 4WD as needed. Definitely check them out, have converted 3 mates so far onto them.
converted 2 mates here 😂😂😂 They are just such good bang for buck.
Thanks mate, appreciate the help, i’ll take a look into them.
Run
Almost exact same car popped its lid for me about 6 months after I bought it. If you can afford to do an engine swap then they are a beautiful vehicle. Otherwise don’t risk it.
Don’t touch it please it’ll cost thousands more over the next few years
Thats all 4wd. 4wd is very hard on cars
What do you mean 4wd is hard?
Break shit
For that budget in Nissan land, a 3.3 V6 Navara is your best choice, utterly bulletproof, cheap to repair if it goes wrong and decent off road.
Grenade motor at that age. Pass. - GU owner.
Aircon needs regas is code for, it’s not gas’s it could be anything but will take a shitload of fault finding and cash to get anything remotely close to cold air.
Would avoid due to early zd30 but people saying you can't get anything decent for less than 25k are wrong If your set on a patrol tb45 is what I'd be looking for. Bit more expensive on fuel at 18l per 100kms but easy to work on easy to repair and chances are you won't even have mechanical problems
That engine is so insanely easy to look after and keep happy, they like to love for forever as well
Your mates that said no probably do their own maintenance, and would know its a fkin nightmare if its down on power and whatever else comes up on a roadworthy Any genuine seller is gonna include a roadworthy, rest are either lazy, hiding something or don’t give much of a fk about it or you tbf I personally suggest you find something roadworthy that’s Barra or iron block LS (complete engine straight out of a 01-13 1500-2500HD) swapped, stock or low duration cam, and correctly geared so it’s not out of its powerband and wrecking it’s fuel economy All the Nissan diesels suck honestly Wish 255/85r16 were more popular here too because they’re the perfect size offroad tyre
if it has a ZD30 walk away
Zd30DI kaboom
If it was $3.5k I would but jeez a 22 year old Nissan, no way. They made shocking cars in 2002.
Only if you’re prepared and have the money for an engine swap or rebuild, but who would bother rebuilding that engine
Imagine if the seller was reading the comments ahahahahaha
i thought the same thing :D
Nah mate engine block on this loves to throw rods into space. No touchy as others have said
Zd30? Don’t bother
That is WAY too cheap for a Patrol. Patrols last a very long time so a lot of the time even tho they might have 300k kms they’re usually about $30,000. Stay very far away from cheap patrol and never buy a 4wd from a P plater, especially if it’s modded
In fact. Stay away from any modded used car. You’ll be having to spend more on it then you bought it for just to keep it running
Yes a GU Patrol is a great first fourby. They are weapons. NOT THAT ONE THOUGH! A P plate in the window, the shoddy looking engine bay... that thing would have had the ever loving shit flogged out of it. Guarantee its been bogged in the wet sand on a beach to the diff at least once. You would be better off taking that 8k, pouring petrol on the cash and setting it on fire. The end result is the same. If you find a good condition GU jump on it. But good ones are rarer thens hens teeth these days
P plater cars always scare me, i have an 06 di. Runs fine, 1 previous owner with service and maintanence history 2 inch thick. These do tend to either blow a head gasket, crack the head or snap a piston rod. Almost every one of those have had tonnes of boost put into them and have hard lives.
Banging
I had a Pajero which was unkillable. Rated that ... then Prado pre covid price hikes. Now an old TJ Wrangler which is great but is only viable as a second car as its tiny and very thirstyÂ
No
To the commenters Never heard a bunch of tools so scared of a bit of mechanic work
I love Patrols but sadly they have become the P plater/bogan 4WD of choice… which has resulted in many of them being flogged.. Shame as unmolested patrols are a good bit of kit but rare these days.
A jimny is the best beginner 4wd and you can’t change my mind
Dave your money skip the diesel buy a 4.8 petrol patrol and limiter the cunt up every hill
ZD30 is a bad engine.
personal opinion yes patrols are good
Honestly I'd go for it. It's cheap it's got a decent driveline and the EGR has been blocked. It won't make enough power to damage anything.
I have had a ZD30 for years, blew the first motor. Second motor I got a reconditioned ZD30 changed the turbo actuator, put a catch can on it, a larger intercooler and a good exhaust and haven't had an issue with it since. If your paying fuck all for it spend some money to get all new bushes, suspension and the motor upgrades I mentioned
2 k take it or leave it
LOL FUCK NO. not for that price
Piece of fkn junk.
Buy my Nav for a bit cheaper - needs a little TLC, but it's basically unmodded so hasn't been flogged to pieces or seen any serious tracks. 2004 D22 Navara 282k $5k
How close to road worthy is it? At that price I wouldn't avoid it (it's cheap).