Buying my first 4x4
Submitted: Tuesday, Mar 29, 2005 at 17:33
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phedus
Hi everyone, Im looking at buying my first 4x4. I want something I can put a few bikes in the back of ( or on the roof). I have been looking at Mitsubishi Pajeros at around the $9000 (for an 89 with around 250000km on the clock) upto $15000. I like the Pajero because of its folding chairs and good storage space and locking points on the floor. Can I please get some advise on preferred models in the same price range ( $9000 - $15000 ) and things I should look out for.
Thanks.
Reply By: The Bog Eye Lizard. - Wednesday, Mar 30, 2005 at 14:39
Wednesday, Mar 30, 2005 at 14:39
Hi Phedus.
A couple of things. Most vehicles have a design life of about 300-350 thousand KM. This is the point at which all the bits should be able to hold together and give good service taking into account reasonable treatment and proper maintenance. Geting a vehicle with higher millage means starting from behind straight away. The vehicle could be as presented or it may have been clocked (the odometer wound back). This is absolutely endemic. 4WD vehicles have components that will stagger you with their cost. Gearboxes,transfer cases and frt + rear differentials are all extreamly expensive. Odometers are an INDICATION ONLY of vehicle usage. Wear is one thing but accident damage is another. Many many vehicles only come onto the market when they have been repaired. Let the buyer beware. It is essential that your propective purchase is inspected by a 4WD expert.Please Please Please listen to this advice. Not the hack on the corner servo but some workshop that can be recommended by 4WD clubs and enthusiasts. These workshops are easily found cause they charge like wounded bulls. Your vehicle inspection is not a process to be done by the lowest possible bidder.
Secondly many second hand fourby's have lots of groovy accessories already fitted that can be had for just about nix. Work-out the applications for this vehicle and if you need Spotlights, Bullbar,winch,
snorkel etc. In other words
shop around. In your price bracket I would almost say, don't purchase from a yard. They will charge full market..then a bit more then fight over the warranty with the last breath left in their bodies.
Thirdy.The vehicle. A Pajero is in my opinion a very underated option and probably suffers a bit from being yesterdays fashion statement. These are
well thought out and durable vehicles that are more than capable off road. The V6's are a good donk that have proven to be durable in service. The Turbo Diesel is a Gem but will cost you a Motza to repair BEWARE.
Good luck buying second hand can have risks and returns. I Purchase brand new because of these risks. Enjoy the Pajero.
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