Thread: Hoping to buy my first D3

What are you prepared to spend on repairs ,before pain sets in ? Are you up for ten grand in a bad year or two ?
If not , walk on . There's nothing cheap to fix/maintain on D3.
Five tyres , 2 services , 2 diffs and compressor pump , all since August ; 8 grand . Get my drift ?

Can you get the full service / warranty history to see if the diffs have been changed? There were lots of early (and not so early) diffs replaced because of an internal housing coating affecting the bearings (IIRC), so replaced diffs would be a plus although no guarantee. On a similar but not so expensive note, have the EGR valves been replaced recently? What's the status of the high pressure fuel pump - is a recall outstanding? Has the gearbox oil been changed?

Having been in your position a year ago, try and find out if the gearbox has been flushed. If no evidence, insist on it as a condition of sale and be very wary if there is any hint of a shudder as it goes through the gears. Also check things like there are two keys - they are pricey to replace.

I love driving it, but hate that nagging feeling that something is going to go wrong. General maintenance is also pricey

Cheers
Daaren

Thanks for the info. I am steeling myself for a few bills but hopefully I'll find a good one.

I'll check these things out, thanks very much

Thanks Graeme.

Thanks Neil. But you still love the car?

G'Day and Welcome!!