1997 SsangYong Musso 602EL review from South Africa
"An ugly duckling that goes like a swan!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
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.
Recommended reviews
Excellent value for money, don't expect Landcruiser performance offroad | |
| Excellent value for money as a secondhand reliable 4x4 |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.9 turbo diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 135000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 175000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Daewoo Cielo |
| Date of Entry | 6th June, 2001 |