Need some advice on buying a D3

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Originally Posted by cripesamighty

I picked up my 2006 D3 TDV6 a year ago for $6k with just under 510,000km on the clock and in VGC. It is up over 524,000km now without much issue. This was a vehicle mainly used for running tourist groups out bush so did mostly taxi kms (big trips, not city driving) and was serviced/repaired as required. Mine also came with a long range tank (~190L useable), bull bar and swing out rear bar for the spare tyre. Up till now, so far, so good!

Although the V6 & V8 Petrols use more fuel than the TDV6 diesel, that is largely offset by less servicing requirements and simpler engines. Depending on your requirements, you also have the option of coil suspension or EAS. Check out the relevant D3/D4/RRs sections and FAQ’s for more info. Whatever D3 model you choose, they are a complex though robust vehicle with maybe a bit more maintenance required than a few other types, but the driving experience is well worth it. Lots to think about!

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Thanks for your info. I am having a hard time making decision between the D3 and defender now. Use to own a GQ patrol and quite like the truck like driving experience.

Lewis

Lewis I think a 2 door defender hardtop wagon would suit your purpose over a D3, I love mine but I don't use it as you intend to.

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Originally Posted by loanrangie

Lewis I think a 2 door defender hardtop wagon would suit your purpose over a D3, I love mine but I don't use it as you intend to.

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110HT don’t come up all that often....although the last few months a couple of popped up....not that I look that hard.

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Originally Posted by lewishim1988

Thanks for your info. I am having a hard time making decision between the D3 and defender now. Use to own a GQ patrol and quite like the truck like driving experience.

Lewis

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Then a 5 speed TD5 or more refined V8 D2 is for you!

Cheers

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Originally Posted by cripesamighty

I picked up my 2006 D3 TDV6 a year ago for $6k with just under 510,000km on the clock and in VGC. It is up over 524,000km now without much issue. This was a vehicle mainly used for running tourist groups out bush so did mostly taxi kms (big trips, not city driving) and was serviced/repaired as required. Mine also came with a long range tank (~190L useable), bull bar and swing out rear bar for the spare tyre. Up till now, so far, so good!

Although the V6 & V8 Petrols use more fuel than the TDV6 diesel, that is largely offset by less servicing requirements and simpler engines. Depending on your requirements, you also have the option of coil suspension or EAS. Check out the relevant D3/D4/RRs sections and FAQ’s for more info. Whatever D3 model you choose, they are a complex though robust vehicle with maybe a bit more maintenance required than a few other types, but the driving experience is well worth it. Lots to think about!

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I'm not sure the servicing cost does offset the fuel difference. I use 25% less fuel in the TDV6 than i did the v8 (which uses the same as the petrol v6). And fuel prices are at an all time high here in Perth right now, with diesel only 10c a litre more expensive. On our 6 week 11,000 km trip i saved 330L or $550 alone. Fuel filters do need to be replaced every 12 months on the diesel, but after seeing the state of my fuel lines on our 2011 petrol Forester, i'm replaced the fuel filter on that every 2 years too. . .

Front and Rear air struts are $2230 delivered within 3 business days from duckworths. That's what i paid anyway.
Air Compressors can be had for $630 if you go for the standard original Hitachi. $1100 is AMK price, both delivered.

Nothing too expensive by 4x4 standards.