Have recently moved to regional WA and want to look the part so I'm looking at picking up a used 4x4.
Looking to pay upto $14,000 so have been considering the following late 90's to early 00's models of:
- Toyota Landcruiser Prado
- Mitsubishi Pajero
- Nissan Patrol
Also open to other 4x4 suggestions. Have been considering ute's too. I intend to use it for some light off-roading and camping so hopefully can pick something up that already has a rooftop tent or platform for a bed in the back. Not too concerned with cosmetics.
Would love to know what peoples experiences are with the vehicles listed above for things like:
- diesel/petrol
- reliability/common problems/expensive repairs
- fuel economy (will be making the occasional 4-5 hour drive back to Perth, have read that the Patrol is pretty thirsty compared to the other 2)
- auto/manual (would prefer auto so the wife can drive it too, but if this is a reliability concern, or has a noticeable effect on fuel economy, then will go manual)
I haven't purchased a used car before and have read the importance of getting a PPSR check, and making sure the names on all the paperwork matches up with the seller, but I also had a few other questions:
- Is it common for sellers to allow you to take the car to a mechanic to get inspected or do most buyers just take it for a spin around the block and hope for the best?
- Is bank transfer the best way to pay, and what sort of paperwork would I need to get to prove that the transaction actually took place?
- Is it worth considering buying from a used car dealer? (looks to be pricier, but would be easier for me to pay on credit. Warranty option sounds good, but have also read that they are sketchy when it comes to claiming)
Thanks
At that age id probably avoid the Pajero, the pool of available vehicles alone with be much smaller and the chances of finding a good one will be reflected.
At that price point you will find better value in a petrol, whilst fuel consumption will be up fuel cost, maintenance and repairs are lower.
Also In my experience automatics of that vintage suck big time, older manuals will get you further off road and be safer and more reliable.
Might be worth looking at a Hilux Surf, their autos are pretty good, and the wagon style back is a comfortable sleeping option, for 14k you will probably get better value than a similarly priced 4x4 wagon.