Nissan’s Y61 (GU) Patrol may have a reputation for bulletproof mechanicals and immense capabilities off road, but with a base architecture that harks back to its Y60 (GQ) predecessor from the 1980s, and a production cycle that lasted nearly 20 years, some Patrols are better than others.

The GU evolved over its lifetime, going through ten series iterations, some receiving major mechanical and power plant updates, others cosmetic and trim changes (all the details are listed below) but there are key things to watch out for when it comes to the GU so before you make the Patrol commitment, read on.

What goes wrong with a used Nissan Y61 Patrol?

• Early (2000-2005) ZD30’s 3.0-litre turbo diesel can suffer from catastrophic engine failure due to oiling and cooling problems
• Excessive oil use in the ZD30s
• Piston failures on early ZD30s
• Fuel pump and fuel system issues on early ZD30s
• Manual gearbox can have problems with fifth gear spline and hub
• All Patrol engines can have overheating issues
• Look for underbody damage – the door sills and bumpers are usually the first to suffer
• Look also for dings in the bash plates and be sure they haven’t been pushed onto the items they should be protecting
• Check for leaking rear axle oil seals
• Manual gearbox synchromesh can wear especially between 2nd and 3rd gear
• Early models can have issues with spring mounts in the front suspension
• Dashboards can blister and bubble

Should you buy a used Nissan Y61 Patrol?

Yes, but it’s a yes with conditions.

In terms of engine choices, if you want a solid workhorse of a Patrol that should hopefully go forever, stick with the 4.2-litre TD42Ti intercooled-turbo diesel. Or, find a Patrol with the lowest mileage with the most recently built, post-2004 ZD30 common-rail diesel within your budget would also be an excellent way to go.

Just avoid the earlier ZD30 models at all costs.

Check the body for signs of abuse, make sure it has a thorough service history and try to get a Patrol with some quality aftermarket accessories and you’ll have yourself one hell of a truck.