Nissan Problems

Stick with the respected brands and models like the Suzuki Grand Vitara or Nissan X-Trail. With your budget you should be able get into a 2008/2009 model.

Nissan made a big song and dance about the new infotainment system on its 2019 Navara, and rightly so, because the vehicle had been off the pace in this regard compared with its major competitors. The changes included the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but also included full smart-phone mirroring.

None of which is much use to you, Dom, because if the system won’t connect to your phone without dropping out, it’s a moot point, yes? I’d be straight back to the dealer to have it sorted out. The computer that controls the infotainment might need a re-boot or maybe there’s a more fundamental problem. Either way, Nissan’s factory warranty should cover this.

But before you do that, try one thing: Pair the car with a different phone just to rule out the possibility that it’s your phone that the upgraded system doesn’t like. 

It could well be a fuse, and that’s the first thing to check.

The Hilux 4WD would give you better offroad ability and more load carrying capacity, and shouldn’t suffer on the fuel consumption or power fronts, but your budget would dictate an earlier model in the region of 2014.

My first thought is that it is a problem with the fuel supply, possibly the fuel pump.

I suspect that it’s the battery, that there’s not enough charge to crank the engine and provide the spark to fire it. Have the battery checked.

The Navara seems to be the forgotten one when it comes to the ute market. The Toyota HiLux is the perennial favourite of ute buyers, with the Ford Ranger a tough rival. The Nissan is refined, comfortable, and a willing worker. A Silverline SE with 99,000 km for $19,000 sounds like a bargain.

The Nissan CVT can have problems. A whirring or grinding noise is a common issue, and it’s usually a bearing failure in the transmission. If you have such a noise in your car you should contact Nissan (1800 035 035) to discuss repairs.

There’s not much between them, but the Honda is regarded as being a little better than the Nissan overall. It’s well-equipped, good value, and practical. Another to consider is the Mazda CX-5.