2000 Nissan Patrol ST 3.0
Summary:
A brutish looking 4x4
Faults:
Turbo breather pipe split at 149,000 km - $50 repair.
Brake pads front/rear at 140,000 km - $85 repair.
General Comments:
The biggest difference I see in the Patrol compared to the Pajero or Landcruiser is the harsh ride. The Patrol also is sluggish in the city, but handles very well out bush (which is what it is designed for). That said, it is nice to cruise around the city high up off the road.
The looks are pretty mean, and the interior is huge with lots of room for seven passengers. The air conditioner will blow you away, and driver's seat comfort is excellent for very tall drivers.
That said, I do have my concerns regarding engine longevity, as many Patrols around this era suddenly detonated, due to poor craftsmanship and shonky specifications for the oil level in the crankcase.
I have not made any modifications to my Patrol, as I figure it has gotten to 150,000 km without any issues so far. Cross my fingers on that one.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 2nd November, 2012
25th Mar 2013, 20:20
I am the original poster. One year later and the Patrol is still going strong with no extra repairs needed. I changed the oil from Castrol to Gulf Western Top Dog Diesel Oil, and I cannot believe the difference in power around city traffic, as this Patrol was originally sluggish. Perhaps it just needed better oil for compression. A fine vehicle.
16th Oct 2022, 10:56
Looked after they are still among the best 4x4's you can get.
16th Dec 2012, 06:36
I bought a 2000 Nissan Patrol about 6 months ago. My first 4 wheel drive by the way. It's a petrol, 4 and a half litre auto with 345000 Ks on the clock, and I have just towed a 2 ton caravan 2300 ks from Sydney to the Gold Coast and back, and was very surprised not to have any problems at all, except for a heavy fuel bill. Heat gauge rose twice climbing on very hot days, but when we reached the top, it went down again to normal.
I drive very steady, and service the Patrol as required. Am thinking of upgrading to newer Patrol or may be keep this one? Don't know as yet? But would buy another Patrol for sure. Love the size and space also.