Truckster (Vic) replied:

Nope dont seem to be any of the same problems, then again the ute dont way 2+ton

Member - Stephen M (NSW) replied:

Hi mj1, I have had two vitaras the second one being the grand vitara. Brilliant vehicle, never had a problem with it mechanically, the main issue was luggage space and ground clearance and like to drink (13L to 15L per 100 )(9 per 100 when not towing) when towing but other than that it was a great vehicle. You have the same dilema my wife and I once had, she wanted the vitara and I wanted a dual cab, eventually I got one and sold the vitara the the above reasons only. It was a bleep load more comfortable than the lux quiter, she really missis it but I wanted the ground clearance and room to carry extra luggage and believe me if your wife is any thing like mine you will need the luggage space even with a camper. Cant comment on the navara's but as truckster said you are lugging 2 to 2 1/2 tonne thats with out camper, lot of weight for a 3L engine in my opinion. Regards Steve M

Willem replied:

I think that the Navara engine is different to the Patrol 3lt. Have not heard of failures.

Nice vehicle the Navara, but gives a harsher ride than a wagon. Also it is best if you were small in stature. I cannot fit into my mates top of the range Navara. I am 190cm and roundish( just a tad smaller than Truckster...lol) and have nowhere to go with my legs in the drivers seat.

Cheers

snow replied:

I believe the main difference is in the turbo, the Patrol has a variable vain type whereas the Navara has the older style whatever it is (non-technical term) teehee. I think a search on this forum will reveal a couple of Navs may have bit the dust but I recall one these being dusted (lack of maintenance).

I have an '03 Nav, bought at high 30K mark, 12 months later now has just over 70K without problem. I service it regular and whilst I do not abuse the vehicle I certainly do not baby it either. Consistent return of 10 km per litre both around town and highway. Used slightly more recently when towing offroad model "Johnno" camper trailer with 2 adults, 2 tin lids and likely 500kg in tray.

I have found the Nav to suit my needs both on and off road and I use to have a HIlux.

cam_champion replied:

When they had all the troubles with the early 3.0L in the patrols, was the 3.0L available in the navara then, or did the navara get the same engine as the series III patrols?

snow replied:

Not 100% certain CC but I believe the Navs came out with the 3.0s TD at the same time as the Patrol...happy to be corrected though.

tuck 01 replied:

The 3 litre TD Navara came out in late 2001. I had to wait a few weeks for mine which I got just before Christmas.
I ran it hard for 3 years before I sold it to my young bloke when I brought the 100 series.
It's now got well over 100k on it and has not missed a beat.
It always performs very well in the rough stuff. Its done several high country trips and he came on our Simpson trip in May this year.
Only failing is comfort level, but I don't reckon it is any worse than any of the little utes eg Hilux, Rodeo etc.
If a Navvie has been well maintained, I reckon it is well worth considering.
Regards

madfisher replied:

Check price of injectors, I have heard they are $2000.00 ea, a ring to any diesel mechanic will put you on the right track
Cheers Pete

Member - Bucky (VIC) replied:

Hi mj1
My Navara is a gem ! Sept 2003 build, purchased new !

Never missed a beat .
Done 96,000 km now and had it since new,, the only problem was that it had a severe case of " turbo-lag " , but one trip to a DYNO, took care of that.

Rides a bit rough, when empty, and I intend on doing something about that, in the new year...
Has got some grunt, and I still get 10km / lt economy, thats empty....
On our latest trip to the desert, we ageraged 6.5 km /Lt, but we were towing a loaded up camper

There appears to be no issues, with the ZD30 engine,
In the Patrol, it is a " hand-granade ",,, most likely cause is the permanent high weight problem

Cheers Mate
Bucky