Buying a T4 TDI Caravelle 99-03 Manual...Tips to look out for.

[idle79]

Hi. Am new to this forum but have been on the Nissan Patrol one for ages.

With baby 5 due in April and our oldest starting school next week time I got my act together and take back my patrol and buy my wife a van to do the school run in.

Am looking at a 02 T4 TDI manual next week and would like any tips or things to look out for in these models.

Have read on here all the issues with autos and have never had any intention buying one.
Have only ever owned diesels so would like to stick with them.

Am flying from Newcastle to Brissy to have a look at it and if it's ok will drive it home

Does anyone know of any for sale?

Thanks Simon

[Sunny43.5]

We used to have the 2000 T4 but it was the petrol 2.5 lt Auto I have to admit it was a ripper van never gave any problems with the auto or the engine etc . The later series with the 2.5 turbo diesel T5 well I wont go there the autos were a problem due to service problems . Good luck with your purchase , as a matter of interest we are very soon selling our 2004 T5 2.5 Turbo diesel Tiptronic auto , as we have bought a new T5 to replace the older one .

[jets]

Am looking at a 02 T4 TDI manual next week and would like any tips or things to look out for in these models.

I can't think of anything specific, but all the usual checks. Coolant leaks, temp should be bang on 90C. Engine leaks, probably hard to see if belly pan is on. Gearbox & clutch noises.Engine should pull well otherwise could have faulty MAF[quite expensive] but easy to fit.
Previous accident damage, should be no rust except maybe around windscreen. How many Ks has it done?
If you want a proper check, send Jmac on this forum a PM. He operates in Brisbane area.

[idle79]

Thanks for the tips

It's done about 230k

Good old MAF. replaced the patrol one when I bought it (got it for a bargain cause the owner thought it was a slug of a car..silly cause i popped in new one and it was 100% better) how much are they in the for the Caravelle? $$$$$'s?

Is it true the rumors that all parts are expensive?

[Sunny43.5]

Parts can be expensive but remember in Europe there is a huge pool of people and business selling original VW parts for a lot less then they are sold here , naturally in an emergency you may not have a choice .