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I am updating my car from a Nissan Avenir to a Primera as I feel that I need a little more oomph than my Avenir can give. I do travel with two dogs and after having a brief look have decided that the Primera size wise (boot space etc) is what will suit me. I have two to look at in different dealers yards. One is an import (2003 and has done 90,000km) and the other NZ new (2004 and has 107,00). My preference is for the Import (due to colour) and this is the one I am going to test drive on Friday. Are there any questions I need to ask the dealer? I am aware of CVT and the need to have these serviced properly but anything else I should be aware of?
Nothing other than the CVT, which can give problems and be very expensive to repair.
An advantage of the NZ New one is the lower mileage and it should have the full service history (check this with the dealer). The import is unlikely to have any record of service history.
Have you considered other models, such as perhaps Toyota Caldina or Mazda6?
I like the boot space in the Primera as the wheel well does not stick out as far which means that I can fit crates for my dogs in if necessary. And my last two cars are Nissans and I really liked them and have had no problems with them. I will ask the dealer of the imported one (which after checking history has had one NZ owner) about whether they have done a full service. Bearing in mind that the import came into the country in 2011 having done about 60,000km (only done another 30,000 since), the CVT would not have been due for a service (how many kms before they need servicing as I have read about 130,000km?) So am I making a mistake?
It's more a question of the service history, rather than just a one-off service. As a generalisation, new car buyers in New Zealand have their car serviced regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. This doesn't always seem to occur in Japan. However, a full recent service would be preferable to a car with a completely unknown history.
If you particularly like the model and it suits all your needs, I wouldn't say you are making a mistake as long as you are aware of the risks. Perhaps a warranty insurance policy may give some added peace of mind.
The dealer is offering a free 12 month Protector Warranty (with conditions and I can find out what these are) or do you advise I do something longer myself. My current vehicle is with AMI so would they be able to add that on to what I have? Thinking about it as both are in dealers in the same town I will go and re assess the NZ new as well. The only thing I did not like about the NZ new one was the interior is cream (maybe not a good idea when transporting dogs but that is only cosmetic) and there is a difference of about $1,000 in price (the NZ new one is dearer).
The Protecta policy is well-established in the marketplace, so should be OK. I don't know whether AMI offer a breakdown policy.
If you want to make some comparisons, AA offer a Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policy.
Originally years ago I was with AA and I am still am member and so was my Insurance but there was some sort of split up and my insurance ended up with AMI.
That's OK, you don't need to have insurance with AA to get an AA Mechanical Breakdown policy.