1999 Tata Safari 1.9 turbo diesel

Summary:

Best value for the price that I have found.

Faults:

Broken injector pipe.

Crankshaft pulleys came loose (off).

Rubbers in rear suspension arms worn out and collapsed.

Clutch master cylinder seals worn out.

Fuel cap access door solenoid open circuited.

I believe the previous owner experienced problems with the exhaust gasket and speedometer.

Some interior plastic panels rattle loose, drivers door parcel carrier fell off.

General Comments:

A very good vehicle, it is not a racing car or a mountain goat.

It is comfortable to drive for long distances on any roads, 4WD is particularly good on dirt or wet roads as it gives a solid confident feel to the vehicle.

The electrics are noisy, this is shown by the radio which squeals and clicks with every switched action, air conditioner fans can be heard quite easily through the radio when the engine is off.

There is too much glass above eye level, this may be good in some latitudes, but in high temperate areas the amount of sun coming in is excessive.

Another gear would improve the performance in hilly areas.

A greater attention to fitting of seats, door trims etc. would make this vehicle great.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st January, 2003

2000 Tata Safari EX 2.0 turbo diesel

Summary:

Good potential, let down by poor quality

Faults:

Gearbox faulty (synchromesh cones), fixed under warranty.

Intermittent problems with driver's door lock, and a broken handle (requiring a whole new assembly with a different key).

Dead battery at 35,000 kilometres and alternator blew at 36,000.

Plastic parts shoddy, brittle and expensive to replace.

Power rear view mirrors next to useless.

General Comments:

I use the car for close to its intended purpose, namely long distance travel on poor roads. The performance and economy for this use is adequate.

The seats are really comfortable, and handling on dirt roads very good.

The car is let down by very poor quality fittings, reliability issues and availability of spares.

The acceleration is leisurely, and more power is definitely needed for hilly country.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th December, 2002

10th Feb 2004, 04:40

Tend to agree with most of the comments, I find the Tata a basic good 4x4. Having real problems with the lights going out when indicators are used.

19th Sep 2006, 08:12

The Tata Safari is a good vehicle. All Tata cars will soon be a vehicle every other manufacture will want to accuire.