Ask The Guide

The NM Pajero has proved to be a sound and solid performer with few problems on road and off. The independent rear suspension is one area you need to be concerned about as it’s prone to sagging. The good news is that there are aftermarket suspension kits available to beef it up for load carrying and towing.

The claimed average for the Triton diesel is 9.6 L/100 km, the claimed consumption for urban driving is 11.9 L/100 km, for highway/country driving it’s 8.3 L/100 km. That, of course, is the result of a laboratory test, not a real world one, so you have to allow for some variation.

You also have to allow for some variation due to loading, driving style, road conditions, tyres and the general state of the car. I’d recommend that you keep accurate records of the fuel used so you have the data to present to the dealer, and to Mitsubishi. If your data shows the car is not performing as they claim it should ask them to rectify it. Should they refuse approach the consumer affairs people with a claim that the vehicle as supplied to you is not what was represented to you.

Your budget limits you to older models, around 2010-2012. One to look at is the Suzuki SX4; others are the Kia Sportage and Mitsubishi ASX.

That model Cruze was plagued with gearbox problems like yours. Holden was replacing the gearbox free of charge as a gesture of good will, and you might be able to convince them to do the same for you, but as yours is seven years old you might have trouble mounting a compelling case.

If Holden refuses your request you could take your case to the ACCC.

The EGR cooler can develop a crack and the resultant loss of coolant could lead to a cracked cylinder head. I would recommend that you press Ford for a goodwill gesture to cover the cost of repairs. At the very least you deserve an explanation for the rejection of your claim. If ultimately Ford doesn’t come to the party with a satisfactory resolution you could go to the consumer affairs people (ACCC) and ask for their help.

If you’ve got doubts about the Nexen tyres you could try the Michelin Primacy.

No. That’s an odd one and needs investigation to determine what’s gone wrong. I’d suggest consulting a diesel engine specialist.

Go for the latest one you can afford; that will get you the best performance with the best reliability. Taking on an old model that’s done a lot of kays is risky.

The claimed average fuel consumption for the Pajero diesel is 9.7 L/100 km, so yours is a little high. I might come down with a little more running, but keep a record of it so you show your dealer at the next service. As for the poor radio reception you could complain to Mitsubishi; you could also go to a radio shop and have them advise you on what you could to improve it.

You could consider the Mazda3, Toyota Corolla, or a similar model from a well-respected brand, but your positive experience with the i30 should suggest the new model is the one to go for.