1989 Nissan Patrol ST 4.2 dual fuel

Summary:

I think I got a lemon

Faults:

Air con compressor died at 320,000.

Power steering hose erupted at 322,000 ($180).

Brake hose did likewise ($80).

Clutch bit the dust at 328,000 ($1500).

General Comments:

I know GQ Patrols have a reputation as being bullet proof, but my old Trol was constantly off the road in need of repair. I even had my mechanic check it out prior to buying it, but that didn't give any hint of the wave of problems to come.

On the plus side, it was absolutely unstoppable off-road, I was surprised what it was capable of, and it would conquer stretches of dirt that I would've thought a stock 4x4 would get stuck on.

On road it had decent power, and was nice enough to drive, even the handling was OK. The steering was light, the clutch was light and gears changed easily. It was tiring to drive on a long trip though, typical old school 4x4 I guess, it preferred to stay under 80km/h.

I would buy another one for sure, just next time I hope I don't have so many dramas.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th October, 2011

6th Oct 2011, 06:24

You didn't get a lemon, you got a 22 year old car with 300,000 miles on it - it's worn out, what do you expect?

In reply to 6th Oct 2011, 06:24

8th Nov 2011, 07:23

That's kilometres not miles. 320,000km is about 200,000 miles.

1989 Nissan Patrol GQ LWB 4 ltr diesel

Summary:

Great car, would recommend

Faults:

Suspension became spongy (unknown how long they had been on the car)

Fuel injector started leaking fuel about 220000kms.

Sync-mesh in 2nd gear went after 300000kms.

That's about it.

General Comments:

The power of the 4 ltr diesel was great. Very economical, travelling about 600-650kms per tank (75 litres) on the open road.

Seats could be more comfortable, but it is an old car.

Didn't handle the sand well, but loves the tough 4WD work.

In general, I loved the car which started every time and pulled a lot of newer 4WD's out of trouble. Only sold it when I moved to the metro area.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th June, 2006