Faults:
Head gasket has gone four times (roughly 80 000kms, 150 000kms, 205 000kms and 256 000kms)
Original cylinder head had two cracks in it (at 256 000kms, 51 000kms after reconditioning)
Original water pump failed at about 205 000kms, overnight, with no prior warning.
Horn went off in the middle of the night for no reason.
Rear tailgate windscreen wiper motor fell apart.
Isn't built like a tank on the inside (roof fabric sagging).
Door seals obviously show their age - significant wind noise on drivers side at higher speeds (becomes annoying above 110km/h)
Front wheels always eventually go out of alignment. Will wear out cheap tyres fairly quickly. Slight pull to the left.
Disk rotors will squeal like crazy unless you apply anti-squeal grease (minor annoyance)
General Comments:
Wagon is duel fuel, averages about 15 to 16l/100km in the city and around 12 to 13l/100km highway. Around 12 to 13l/100km on petrol in the city.
Just been on 4000km north-west WA trip, performed well, cruising at 130km/h for hours on end. Temperature gauge never goes past 1/4, even on the hottest summer days climbing steep hills.
Was fitted with a reconned EL head and an AU head gasket at 256 000kms, and is still going strong 24 000kms later.
Transmission is good after 280 000kms, however there is the occasional thudding downshift between second and first (once tranny warms up this mostly disappears). Engine burns a little oil, however is acceptable (needs small top up every two months).
Plenty of torque for overtaking. Air con has never been re-gassed and is still icy cold. De-misters are excellent.
Handling isn't perfect, bit of body roll going round corners. Can throw the back end out on wet or loose surfaces (i.e. gravel) VERY easily if you put too much power on.
Excellent value for money, as they can be picked up for $1500 to $3000 at most, with far less K's than this one. However, avoid if not looked after meticulously and/or no service history is available.
23rd Jun 2010, 08:01
Next time your head gasket goes and you fit a new one, replace the cylinder head bolts as well, as they are not designed to be reusable. If you look after it, the engine will go past the 1,000,000 km mark. Seen that in a couple of ex taxis.