Nissan Problems

NISSAN is coy about the problems with the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel in the Patrol, but it is clear there is a problem. A change was made to the dipstick to increase the oil level in the engine, and there are reports of work having been done on the cooling jets that deliver oil to the pistons. From the evidence we've seen it seems there is a problem with the lubrication of the pistons. The best course of action, seeing your's hasn't had a problem, is to keep the oil level up to the top mark on the dipstick. We approached Nissan and though they wouldn't admit there was a problem a spokesperson said the company would look after any owner who had one. Read into that what you will.

I'D GO for the GQ Nissan Patrol. It's tough, plenty of parts are available and everyone knows how to fix them. I don't have any real problem with the Jeep, though early ones were poorly built and rather rudimentary with a small cabin.

THE Avalon is successfully running on LPG in taxis, and Toyota offers a dual-fuel system as a dealer-fit option. The system is an Apollo Gas Products development, so contact Apollo for its recommended installer. The Pulsar is a little different. It can be converted, but finding a kit is a problem. We checked with Victorian Autogas Supplies, which is working on systems for cars such as the Pulsar. It can't say when it may have one.

THE Skyline is a good car that has few faults, apart from a spate of noisy rear axles in the early days. Listen for rear-axle whine and walk away from any car that has that. Other problems from old age and high mileage include oil smoke, rattling engines, notchy gearboxes and rust.

WITH $3000, your son shouldn't be choosy. Cast a wider net and search for the best car you can find for the money. It's better to have a car in good condition, though it might not be a cool choice. That might sound boring, but he'll get better service out of a car in tiptop shape than one that might have a better image but is run down.

NISSAN assures me the problem was fixed when it changed the sump and dipstick, but I have had some reports it wasn't totally fixed. I've been unable to verify those claims and can only take its assurance at face value. I wouldn't worry. If it does occur, you'd have very strong grounds to make a claim against Nissan.

ELITE Wire Wheels in Melbourne make wheels that would fit your car. Each wheel costs about $420. Ph: 9700 1150.

IT'S time time you moved up to something more modern. The Bluebird is fine and won't cost a fortune to fix. Run the 180B on PULP or 98 octane unleaded.

THE 300 ZX was well-designed and built, which means it has stood up to the rigours of the road quite well. The V6 engine is sturdy and gives little trouble, but remember it is likely to have been driven hard over the years and could be suffering as a result. Major services at 100,000km intervals require cambelt changes, platinum-tipped plugs and other important items, so are expensive. Make sure they've been done. Gearboxes are rugged and give little trouble; wear in driveline joints and the centre bearing is common. Pay $17,000 to $18,000. For more information on the 300ZX it's worth checking with members of the Australian 300ZX Owners' Association or go to the website: www.aus300zx.com

THE MQ is really getting a little long in the tooth, so I would recommend you think about a GQ, though you will find it hard to fit one within your budget. Going by your description of the sort of driving you will be doing I would advise against the Patrol. It sounds like a very expensive way of getting to the city, ferrying the kids around and going shopping, with only an occasional weekend away. Go for a regular car -- it will be better suited to your needs and be less expensive to run. If you must go for a Patrol, buy the 4.2-litre petrol GQ.