What's the Nissan Patrol like?

Hi, I am considering purchasing a 2004 Nissan GR Patrol passenger vehicle privately. It has 110,000 miles (177,000km) on the clock and I am getting bad reports on this type of vehicle regarding overheating and cyclinder head problems etc, but at the same time I'm aware that it is the vehicle of choice with United Nations and Irish Army etc, although I do see the Irish Army has changed to Mitsubishi Pajeros. What do you think?

Derek Noonan (Kildare)

Nov 2012 Filed under: choosing used car

---

Expert answer

Hi Derek,

First up, don't read anything into the Irish Army changing vehicles. That goes through a rigorous tendering process and no doubt price is a big part of it.

You're right though, the Patrol is known to have head gasket and gearbox issues from 60,000 miles on. Check the service history on the model you're looking at. If neither have been done then be wary.

Best bet is to have a full mechanical inspection done by an expert.

Best of luck

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D