Faults:

I had to replace the gear box at 150300 miles. I bought a second hand one for 500 euros. I was disappointed that I had this problem as I don't drive hard or pull heavy loads. I guess I was just unlucky, and I wouldn't regard this as a common problem on Pajeros of this vintage.

A new back box was fitted in the summer of 2003. This was reasonably priced.

I recently replaced rear leaf springs, U-bolts and bushings at a cost of 300 euros.

I also had to replace the front shocks.

Along with these I had to renew both the idler arm and pitman on the steering system.

My latest headache points to the fuel pump and injectors as excessive black smoke is being produced and I'm feeling a loss of power towing and going up hills.

General Comments:

I Know the above problems look gloomy, but I have to say apart from the gear box they are common problems on pajeros at this age.

Anyone I have talked to with a pajero like mine has had practically the same problems at the same mileage.

The exterior of mine is in mint condition and the metallic paint shines up well. I often have people come up to me and complement me on the condition of the jeep.

It's a very practical jeep with good space in the rear and as it's a short wheel base its easy to park.

I'm a college student and find the pajero a very easy jeep to work on. The engine bay is very spacious and all major parts are accessible.

With the aid of a workshop manual any repair can be done at home. I carried out all the above repairs in my back yard.

In all the years I've had the jeep its started first turn every time.

As for comfort, these old pajeros don't rate high and the cab is noisy.