Nissan Repair: Engine failure on older models, failure issues, oil leaks

Question
Hi There

I have been looking for a Nissan Navara pick up for a while but there is no way I would touch a pre 2006 D22 engine. My budget means that I cannot afford a newer model. However I have been told that 2001 navaras are unaffected by the conrod failures in later D22. Can you confirm if a 2001 2.5td engine (I have been told that 2.5tdi is best avoided) is 'safe' from the infamous ngine failure issues?

Thanks in advance

Answer
Brian,

All of these D22 TD engines have excellent rods.  I have not heard of an issue with the rods.  My bet is someone is using bad diesel and that caused the issue.  From my experience these engines are quite good.  What you are looking for in a used one is a vehicle that has maintenance records with normal oil changes.  Now that you have verified the records check out the vehicle.  Open the hood and see what has gone on.  No excessive dirt or oil leaks and the oil looks and smells clean, when checking with the dip stick.  Understand that turbos run hot and if the oil has not been changed at intervals indicated there will be bearing damage.  That causes the seals to fail and that gets sucked into the intake and into the engine and that causes pre ignition.  That is what will throw rods on any engine.  Again, check the records and appearance to make sure the vehicle has been taken care of.