Nissan Patrol 2007 Problems

WE RECEIVED quite a few emails from readers who have experienced the problem or know of it. Nissan released a service fix for it that appears to do the job.

THE Nissan letter we received was referring specifically to the engine failures, not to a lack of performance you refer to, though there may well be an issue with the performance of the ZD30 engine, as you suggest.

THE meeting didn't happen, but Nissan corporate affairs manager Jeff Fisher sent me a letter that may ease your mind. I quote: "We acknowledge that we have received the occasional call relating to ZD30 diesel engines and that each received prompt attention from our customer service representatives in conjunction with the Nissan dealer network. "In each identified instance, where we have seen some form of product defect, Nissan has worked to resolve the issue to the satisfaction of the owner according to the terms of the Nissan new car warranty (three years, 100,000km). "In that context, Nissan also maintains a pro-active support to owners of vehicles during ownership periods beyond the standard factory warranty. "The circumstances surrounding product comments, (such as those made by your readers) in our experience, usually involve older vehicles (often second and third owners, out of warranty and often with high mileage and unknown usage patterns). "We encourage owners to maintain their vehicle in partnership with manufacturer's guidelines and its dealer network. "This is especially in the knowledge that advanced diesel engine technology can be vulnerable to failure should it be subject to misuse or neglect. "Alternatively, we are quite prepared to discuss technical and operational details directly with customers, owning either new or older Nissan products, before and during their period of ownership. "Our national Customer Service Centre number is 1800 035 035. "I hope this has illustrated how we deliver prompt and results-based outcomes with our customers in attending to specific product matters as they may arise.'' Unfortunately the letter doesn't indicate that the problem, which has been acknowledged in the letter as existing in older models, has been fixed. If you have any doubts, take up the offer to phone Nissan.