1997 SsangYong Musso 602EL 2.9 turbo diesel from South Africa

Summary:

An ugly duckling that goes like a swan!

Faults:

Fog light switch is iffy.

Gearbox cracked, which is reported as a common fault by the mechanic in models with a turbo.

Electric 4X4 motor failed, and cannot be repaired, only replaced at R2500 which I think is expensive. I am told this is a very common fault.

Otherwise, it's built very solidly, doesn't rattle despite daily dirt roads, and doesn't leak dust into the car.

General Comments:

I am very impressed with the turbo diesel performance, and I will be changing diff ratios to take advantage of the extra power.

I am less impressed with fuel consumption, especially on long trips, but I think the new diff ratios will fix that.

Overall, I really enjoy the vehicle and would buy another, but I suspect that this one will last a long, long time.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th June, 2001

28th Jan 2010, 11:44

I also drive a Musso 602. I want to change the diff ratios, but don't know what the current ratios is. Can someone PLEASE help me.

In reply to 28th Jan 2010, 11:44

7th Jun 2011, 13:50

Go to the 4 x 4 forum, South Africa. There is a section there for SsangYong vehicles. The members include some brilliant people, who know these vehicles inside out. Good luck. (Google it for the correct name, but easy to pick up).

1997 SsangYong Musso GSE (602EL) 2.9 diesel from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Fog light switch doesn't latch... otherwise, extremely reliable and bomb proof.

General Comments:

Mercedes engine is relatively quiet compared with a Discovery, and body roll is next to nothing for the type of vehicle. Huge load space and room for the kids, and the model has 7 seats fitted, which don't intrude too greatly into the load area. Excellent metallic blue black paint, that looks a different colour from varying angles.

Electronic 4wd is so easy for the wife to use when it gets stuck in the goo.

Overall it is built like a tank, and very comfortable on long trips, with a good spec in this form... ie air con, climate control, alloys, 7 seats, PAS, all round electrics.

Highly recommended, but will probably get a turbo with intercooler fitted when finances permit.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th July, 1999

1997 SsangYong Musso IL 3200 3.2 petrol 6 cyl. from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Fuel pump failed at 8,000km, also battery had to be replaced. Done without quibble by the agents (Mercedes Benz).

General Comments:

Manual version of the GX 220, bought left hand drive in the Middle East. The engine is a beauty, the car is huge, it drives beautifully on road and is very comfortable for us and our three kids. Whilst not in the Discovery league off road it's pretty competent and takes us off camping into the desert in great style. Fuel tank is too small and trim levels are fairly crap. It's cheap to run here where petrol is cheap but maybe not so cheap in the UK. Great value and performance, I may be the only one, but I love the styling!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th September, 1998

7th Jun 2001, 10:27

I also have a Musso 3.2 Petrol job. I have had problems with the fuel pump also, seems to be a regular occurrence with the Musso. Does anyone know where I can get a wiring diagram?

The fuel pump power supply has failed and I can't trace out the fuse or wiring origin.

Regards

Terry Lesser

British Expat Living in Abu Dhabi.

22nd Aug 2006, 14:44

I would like to know the part or serial number of fuel tank sender assembly, and also fuel filter of Ssangyong Musso IL 3200 1998 model. Thank you in advance.

Long Montoya

Abu Dhabi City.