The Best Years For Nissan Navara And Some To Avoid

The Nissan Navara, a stalwart of the pickup truck market, has a rich history spanning several generations. Choosing the right Navara can be tricky, as some model years have proven more reliable than others. This guide aims to navigate the Navara landscape, highlighting the best model years and those best avoided, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Nissan Navara Model Year Overview

Detailed Explanations

D21 (1986-1997):

The D21 Navara, also known as the Nissan Hardbody, is revered for its simplicity and robust construction. Pre-1994 models boasted a solid front axle, making them capable off-roaders. The engines were generally reliable, and repairs are relatively straightforward. However, finding a D21 in good condition can be challenging due to their age, and rust is a significant concern. Safety features are also minimal by modern standards. Parts availability can be limited depending on your location.

D22 (1997-2015):

The D22 Navara introduced independent front suspension for improved on-road handling. Turbo diesel engines were also introduced, offering improved fuel economy. While offering a more modern interior than the D21, the D22 is plagued by several issues. Chassis cracking, particularly in Australian models due to harsh conditions and heavy loads, is a serious concern. Oil leaks are common in diesel engines, and rust remains a problem. Electrical issues are also frequently reported.

D40 (2005-2015):

The D40 Navara brought significant improvements in power, interior comfort, and available features. It was available in King Cab and Double Cab configurations, offering greater versatility. However, the D40 suffers from several well-documented problems. Timing chain issues are prevalent in the 2.5L diesel engine, often requiring costly repairs. Injector problems and turbo failure are also common. Front differential issues, especially in early models, can be expensive to fix. Rust remains a concern, particularly in coastal areas.

D23/NP300 (2014-Present):

The D23/NP300 Navara, introduced in 2014, features a coil spring rear suspension in many markets (leaf springs are still used in some regions and for heavier-duty applications), improving ride comfort. Fuel efficiency was improved, and the interior was updated with modern features. Early models with leaf spring rear suspensions experienced issues with excessive sagging under load, although this was addressed in later revisions and the coil spring models. Sensor malfunctions are common, leading to warning lights and potential performance issues. Diesel models are prone to DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems, especially if used primarily for short trips. Electrical glitches and clutch issues (manual transmissions) are also frequently reported.

D23/NP300 (Post-2019 Facelift):

The post-2019 facelift brought improvements to the rear suspension (on leaf spring models), attempting to address the sagging issue. The infotainment system was upgraded, and enhanced safety features were added. While these updates addressed some concerns, DPF issues continue to plague diesel models. Sensor malfunctions and electrical glitches remain common, although potentially less frequent than in earlier models. It's important to check if the leaf spring suspension has been updated if considering a pre-facelift model with leaf springs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which Navara is the most reliable? The D21 (Nissan Hardbody) is generally considered the most reliable due to its simple design, but finding one in good condition can be difficult.

• What are the common problems with the D40 Navara? Common problems include timing chain issues, injector problems, turbo failure, front differential issues, and rust.

• Are the D23/NP300 Navaras reliable? The D23/NP300 Navara has improved reliability over the D40, but still suffers from sensor malfunctions, DPF issues (diesel), and electrical glitches. Post-2019 facelift models are generally considered more reliable than earlier versions.

• What should I look for when buying a used Navara? Check for rust, particularly in the chassis and body panels. Listen for engine noises (especially timing chain rattle in the D40), inspect for oil leaks, and test all electrical components. For D23/NP300 models, pay attention to DPF performance and sensor functionality.

• Is the coil spring rear suspension better than the leaf spring suspension on the D23/NP300? Generally, yes. The coil spring suspension offers a more comfortable ride and better handling, but the leaf spring suspension may be more suitable for heavy-duty applications and consistently carrying heavy loads. Ensure the leaf spring suspension has been updated if considering a pre-facelift model.

• Which Navara engine is the most reliable? The older, simpler petrol engines found in the D21 and early D22 models are generally considered the most reliable. The 2.5L diesel in the D40 is known for its timing chain issues.

• Are automatic or manual Navaras more reliable? Manual Navaras, particularly in the D23/NP300, have reported clutch issues. Automatic transmissions, if properly maintained, can be more reliable in some cases, but depend on the specific model and maintenance history.

• Is the Nissan Navara a good off-road vehicle? The D21 with its solid front axle is a capable off-roader. Later models with independent front suspension are still capable, but may not be as robust in extreme conditions. The D40 and D23/NP300 offer decent ground clearance and available four-wheel drive systems.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Nissan Navara depends on your individual needs and priorities. The D21 offers rugged simplicity, while the D23/NP300 provides modern features and improved comfort. Careful inspection and research are essential to avoid known problem areas and ensure a reliable purchase.