Hello newbie after some advice

[mac the knife]

i currently have a galaxy 2001 1.9tdi but am considering getting something different and have taken a fancy to x trail sve 2.2 dci about 2005 onwards , just wondering if you would be so kind as to advise me of the pros and cons of this model, any advice would be appreciated,thanks in advance:thumb2

[makeitfit]

Wish I could but it's too new for me:o
I'm still stuck in the mid 90s:augie

[extreme-4x4]

well id get a newer terrano. xtrail looks nice but the t2 is the mutz

[Timbo_1975]

Right, well i have owned 2 xtrails, the first a 52 Di and currently a 53 2.5.

Now, they are largely fault free, the facelift version is better built but still has its foibles, and i will start with the in-expensive items!

Front brake calipers seize.
Front brake discs corrode for fun. (luckily inexpensive)
Fuel filler necks corrode out (there is a recall on these check its been done)
The paint is very thin, damages easily, and the front plastic wings scratch easily. Go over any purchase inch by inch.
Alloys corrode if not kept washed regularly.
Diesel timing chains.
HVAC and stereo can play up occasionally.
Avoid models with the built in satnav with the single din stereo below it. Not only is the stereo -really- awful, the satnav isnt much better.

Di's are relatively trouble free but alittle bit of a tractor.
Dci's- very very very very well known for repetitiive turbo failure. There are afew tihngs you can do to prolong the life of the turbo which basically is running on the edge of its envelope. Changing the oil more frequently, ensuring you let it cool off after a run, the Renault ecu update which reduces power, and replacing EGR valves all help but the bottom line is you will have to replace the turbo, EGR valve, & intercooler during ownership.

I work in the motor trade and am involved in tuning / research work so tend to see patterns of failure with various vehicles

For that reason i bought the 2.5 petrol as i like the x-trail generally. It does 30mpg vs 38-40mpg and is almost bulletproof. It's only weakness is it doesnt have the diesels torque, and 1st gear is too high for setting off with any amount of weight on a trailer without burning the clutch. Solo it is very brisk.

Hope this helps??

[mac the knife]

Cheers Timbo ,very helpful in that i will be giving the xtrail a miss i think:( , i will now be looking at the Honda crv 2.2cdti about 2006 pre facelift you can pick up a nice top of range for right money although they do look somewhat smaller inside,will keep you informed:thumb2

[Timbo_1975]

I tried the CRV, and found it pretty disappointing to be honest. The interior was the biggest let down in that it was very dark, plasticky and mean on gadgets compared to the Xtrail.

I also had it on 2 wheels within a mile on the test drive much to the brown trousers of the salesman!

That said they are fine for their intended purpose. :)

[mac the knife]

Well Timbo i can only say thank you again:thumb2 i might as well keep my Galaxy then as it is running sound and i only fancied a change, i think i will go for a mk 3 Galaxy when the finances (when i get nightshift back:D) are mor favourable,

all the best and once again many thanks

Mac

[CaptLimey]

Hi Timbo

Thanks for the insight on X Trails. In spite of your advisory comments on the diesels, which I much appreciate, I'm still considering upgrading to an X Trail diesel when my old T2 finally becomes too expensive to maintain. I need to have the grunt to tow a 1600 kg caravan so your comments on the first gear inadequacies of the petrol model is welcome. Of the diesel models (and not being too interested in burning rubber), in your opinion, which might be the best to get for power and economy? (If there is such an animal!)

Regards CL

[Timbo_1975]

Get the Dci - look at several and buy the best at sensible money, and stash the cash for when you do need to replace the turbo. Get a ATP / TT upgraded hybrid turbo which will last 3x longer than the stock item and live happily ever after. :)

[CaptLimey]

Hi again Timbo and thanks for the sound advice. I'll stash it away for when I upgrade.
Regards CL