Nissan Problems

Diesels work at their best when they're running fully warmed-up and for long periods. If you aren't doing a reasonable amount of kilometres you can have trouble with the DPF system in the car, which can become clogged and require servicing to clear it. In your situation, doing very short trips to and from work each day I would buy the petrol variant.

The explanation you've been given doesn't sound right to me.

It needs further investigation and I would suggest you take it to a suspension specialist and have them give you a report on it.

Even though the warranty has expired I would believe you have a reasonable claim against Nissan on two grounds. First, you initially reported it while the car was still under warranty, and second, if the suspension is faulty as Nissan seems to be suggesting you could claim that it is unfit for purpose under our consumer laws.

That is providing you operate within the Navara's load and towing limits.

It could be any number of things I’m afraid. It’s clearly not the battery. If it doesn’t turn over when you turn the ignition key to start it could be a faulty starter motor; if it does crank, but doesn’t fire look at the ignition system.

It’s unlikely to be electrical, or the gauge itself. It’s more likely to be the thermostat, but before you do anything make sure the cooling system is filled to the full mark.

The Patrol is a big, tough wagon and generally bulletproof, but I wouldn't recommend buying a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel model earlier than 2005. They had lots engine problems, but with your budget you should be able to buy a later model that isn't prone to engine failure.

It's odd that it only does it under acceleration. That makes me think it's not tyres or alignment; have the driveline checked, particularly the CV joints.

I would expect the local speed limit to be shown.

The over-speed warning appears to be set with a margin so it doesn't go off when you're driving on the limit when it would probably annoy you.