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We moved to the country on metal roads and lots of rain during winter causing the roads to become muddy and having to at times drive through water. We have a small car and we are looking at 4wd purchases off trade me at approx $7k or less. We have been told Isuzu models are good under 150,000kms and ensure it is a manual. Can you advise please
In this price range the Isuzu would be a good option. Automatic transmissions on all older vehicles pose a risk of some sort, and while transmission problems are not unheard of, we're not aware of the Isuzu being any worse than other similar models, as long as they have been properly maintained.
The biggest headache with the Isuzu is the 4JX1 3.2 litre diesel engine that was introduced around 1998. Earlier engines seem to enjoy a better reputation.
The Toyota Surf is perhaps another vehicle in this price range that could be considered.
Thanks for your response, we have looked at an Isuzu Bighorn and the following needs to be fixed to pass the WOF. My question is can you drive from the town you purchase the vehicle directly to your home town and put it into the garage to get the following jobs completed. Also could you give me an idea if these are major jobs and an approx total cost - higher end please. My concern that these jobs could be little things that are actual larger jobs. Your feedback is appreciated.
power steering leaks - high pressure hose
exhaust leak - hole
Rear trailing arm bushes - front
Remove play from driver door (up and down)
hand brake to adjust
bad squeak in suspension - right hand corner
It is not really possible to determine costs without viewing the vehicle or knowing exactly what the defects are. For example, an exhaust leak could possibly be repaired by a small amount of welding costing a few dollars or may be something more serious requiring a new muffler or entire exhaust system, potentially costing several hundred. The same can be said for all the other defects you mention.
If the vehicle does not currently have a WOF, it is only permitted to be driven on the road to drive directly to a WOF station for inspection or to a repairer to have any defects rectified. To get the vehicle to another town it would need to be transported, not driven.