Nissan Patrol Diesel Problems

IN THEORY they're a good idea, but the reality sometimes isn't that great. These systems substitute the cheaper LPG for some of the diesel, so they run on a mixture of diesel and LPG, and they develop more power as a result of that. The idea is that the driver is then able to use less throttle for the same performance and reduce the fuel consumption, but some owners tend to make full use of the extra performance and sometimes damage their engines. I wouldn't recommend it in this case, because the 3.0-litre Patrol has a propensity for holing pistons anyway, and adding the system might only make it worse.

THE 3-litre turbodiesel has a propensity to melt pistons. I've been told the later ones don't have the problem, but I've also been told they're no better, and Nissan won't say anything, which makes me suspicious. I would avoid it, particularly if you're doing much highway driving, because that seems to bring it on.

THE 3.0-litre turbodiesel Patrol is regarded in some quarters as a grenade waiting to go off. I would steer away from them.

YOU NEED to be very careful when having your diesel converted to dual-fuel, converting diesels is quite a new science compared to the conversion of petrol engines and there isn't the same level of experience there to call on. It does work, and can cut fuel consumption, but It's also quite easy to increase the engine's power to the point where the engine can be damaged. Speak to the converters involved and ask them if you can talk to other owners who have made the conversion so you can get their opinion.

I HAVE heard many theories about the cause of the piston problem in the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, but it's the first time I have heard that the problem is caused by the thickness of the pistons. A dealer mate says he has rebuilt many early Patrols after they've suffered a blown piston like yours, but he says the later ones have been fixed and don't suffer the same problem. Nissan's offer to supply the parts to rebuild the motor is standard industry practice, but I fully understand your frustration at being out of pocket. The best course of action is to hound the company in the hope they will relent and cough up the rest of the money.

I WOULD like to be able to confirm that the problem with the 3-litre turbodiesel engine has been fixed, but I can't. My attempts to get Nissan to own up to a fix have been a dismal failure. All it would tell me is it would take care of owners of any Patrol that had an engine problem. Read into that what you will.

IT'S not only out of warranty, it's a long way out being nine years old and with heaps of kilometres on it. While I can understand your frustration, Nissan won't come to the party for the full cost of repairs, but they might offer you part-compensation. We asked them for their current policy on this engine problem and this was the response we got: "Assistance to customers is judged on an individual basis. When looking at providing assistance the following things are considered: vehicle age, kilometres travelled, original owner, accessories fitted, service history, use of genuine parts et cetera.'' I suggest you get back to Nissan's customer service people and press your case for compensation.

BLOWN pistons are a common problem on the 3.0-litre turbodiesel Patrol, particularly those early ones like yours. I recommend you contact Nissan Customer Relations, ph: 1800 035 035, and ask them to rebuild your engine.

THANKS, Ross. It seems Nissan was quite forthright with you and I'm pleased you feel comfortable with its work. This should help reassure others with suspect Patrols that the problem has been resolved.

THERE are too many reports circulating about the 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine and Nissan won't discuss them, so it's hard to recommend the engine to anyone. If you're thinking of the 4.2-litre I would suggest you go for that and stay away from the 3.0-litre engine.