Pajero 2000-2004

Wailin

I'm looking to pick up a cheap 4x4 for weekend use, light off roading. Looking at a SWB Pajero and not spending more than 3k. I would prefer a landcruiser but they are still very pricey for their age. I also considered the jimny which would be a great option due to low running costs but any I've checked have had serious rust issues going on.

So what's the pajero like and what should i be looking out for in the swb models between 00-04? Preferably one with the 2.5l engine.

Wailin

Anyone lads? I'm avoiding the discovery, too big and riddled with reliability issues even though they are superb off road and fairly decent on.

colm_mcm

The 2.5 is very underpowered, I’d aim for a 3.2 automatic.

I bought one years ago with the same intentions as you. Ended up just being a waste of time/money as I just didn’t have the use for it.

Old diesel

Next door neighbour bought a low mileage example.

Minter/minded like a baby by previous owner - but in my neighbours ownership had headgasket/cylinder head/cooling issues.

Even though my neighbour didn't do high miles hunself or thrash it.

I dont know whether my neighbour was unlucky or whether this was a wider issue

Wailin

That is a good possibility colm but if i don't get much use I'll just sell it on a few months down the line.

The 2.5 is favourable as the €1800 tax on the 3 2 is hard to swallow compared to €1080 on the 2.5.

Kamili

Old diesel wrote: »

Next door neighbour bought a low mileage example.

Minter/minded like a baby by previous owner - but in my neighbours ownership had headgasket/cylinder head/cooling issues.

Even though my neighbour didn't do high miles hunself or thrash it.

I dont know whether my neighbour was unlucky or whether this was a wider issue

I had the very same with mine, minded within an inch of its life, full dealer service history from new, and the bloody thing cost me a bomb to keep on the road.

Wailin

Best to avoid then I guess! Cheers lads.