Nissan Problems

From my experience, the Grand Vitara has the best reputation for reliability and for you it ticks the boxes. Next would be the Honda CR-V, then the Dualis with the ASX definitely last.

Nissan told us that "like a number of overseas models, Nissan Australia has studied the possibility of introducing the Elgrand people-mover but, at present, local market demand for this model and its overall business case are insufficient to make the Elgrand a full-volume-compliance model in our brand's local vehicle range. It should be noted that the government requirements, processes and overall costs for a small local second-hand car importer to bring some used vehicles from Japan are different to those for an official full-volume vehicle importer like Nissan Australia."

You will get great value and a classy car in the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The CR-V also goes well and is slightly better value than a RAV4.

Both are well suited to everyday use around town. They're comfortable, fuel-efficient and safe. The Dualis is a little cheaper than the Sportage, but I would definitely go for the Sportage. I would expect them to have a similar resale value when it comes time to sell, but the reputation of the Sportage for quality and reliability would make it easier to move on.

On average a 2007 Patrol is valued at between $15,000 and $17,000 in a private sale. Yours has relatively low kays for that model, and is well equipped, but that dash is a problem. You could easily knock a couple of thousand dollars off the price because of that. I would have it replaced if it were mine.

The Civic is so good — one of the best Japanese cars I have driven for a very long time and a definite for The Tick — that I wouldn't bother about the Nissan.

Try adding some fuel system cleaner to the fuel the next two or three times you refuel. If that doesn't help, have the throttle body cleaned.

I’m not surprised at the clutch requiring replacement in that time, but I am surprised at the gearbox problem. I would contact Nissan directly and ask for some assistance with the cost of repairs.

We contacted Nissan seeking answers to your questions.

We didn't get anything on upcoming upgrades, so can't help you there, but they did give us some information on bullbars that might help you. "There are two genuine accessories bullbars available for the current-model Nissan Navara: aluminium and steel. Both have been locally developed (which included crash-testing) and the Navara retains its 5-star ANCAP safety rating when either of these genuine Nissan bullbars is fitted. An authorised Nissan dealer can fit either of these genuine accessories bullbars. Heavier-rate front suspension springs are needed with the steel bullbar due to its weight. This is to ensure the vehicle performs as designed, in terms of both driving and safety, when this additional weight is added to the front of the vehicle."