Nissan Patrol GR Common Problems and Solutions
Differential seals broken
Problem:
The differential seals on the Patrol are known to fail.
Solution:
To check if these seals are broken, turn the steering wheel full lock and check behind the centre of the wheels for a large round rubber component. If this rubber component has a lot of oil or grease on it, you will need to replace the differential seal to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Engine management warning light
Problem:
The TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) and MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensors are known to fail, which again affects the performance of the vehicle. You will notice a lack of power when taking off. If one of these sensors is faulty, then the engine management warning light will be illuminated on the dashboard.
Solution:
Have a diagnostic check done to correctly identify which sensor is failing and fit a replacement sensor to rectify the problem.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve blocked
Problem:
It is known for the EGR (Exhaust Gas Re-circulation) valve to be blocked up which will have significant effects on the performance of the vehicle; resulting in very poor performance.
Solution:
You can remove the EGR valve and clean out the build up of thick black grease to free up the valve and enhance the overall performance. Have a look at the video below to see how to clean the EGR Valve:
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Cracking noise from steering at low speeds
Problem:
When you turn the steering wheel back to straight at very low speeds and you hear a cracking noise, the broken stop caps could be causing it.
Solution:
You will need to fit replacement stop caps to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Lack of acceleration power
Problem:
If you are finding that your Patrol has a lack of power when accelerating, then it is usually due to a problem with the turbo hose.
Solution:
Fitting a replacement turbo hose will fix the problem. A quality replacement turbo hose can be found with us.
Difficulty level
Not Starting When Warm
Problem:
Cold starts are working fine, but warm starts take multiple attempts to get the engine running.
Solution:
Your first step is to check the cover plate and the O-ring on the injector. If either is worn, then you'll need to browse our parts list for a new injector system. If the injector looks like it's working fine, then it's likely that your fuel injector pump is broken. This is a very low-cost part from BreakerYard, and is an easy job to install.
Difficulty level
Fuel Injection Unit
Banging Noise From Rear
Problem:
You can hear a banging noise coming from the back of the car when driving. There may be an increase in exhaust smoke.
Solution:
Check the bracket that holds your exhaust pipe in place. It's common for this to break on the Patrol, and the radiator will be banging on the chassis rail. Simply apply a bracket using some nuts and bolts, and the banging noise will stop.
Difficulty level
Overboosting
Problem:
The engine is over-boosting, and you may hear a knocking sound coming from the engine when you press on the accelerator.
Solution:
The original Garrett turbocharger in the Patrol has a tendency to have an erratic boost curve as it spools up. It's very common for Patrol owners to avoid this problem by installing a larger exhaust with a higher flow rate. You can find alternative exhaust systems on our parts list for the Patrol-GR, and anything bigger than your existing one will be beneficial.
Difficulty level
Exhaust Full System
Bumpy Driving
Problem:
The car bumps excessively over any uneven surface.
Solution:
If your Patrol has been used to tow something heavy, it's important to know that the rear shock absorbers take a lot of punishment as a result. If you can feel every bump in the road when driving, you need to check your rear shock absorbers for damage and order replacements from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Shock Absorber
Excessive Fuel Consumption
Problem:
You have to fill up your fuel tank a lot more than you think you should be.
Solution:
The Patrol-GR is a thirsty car already, so if you're filling up even more than you used to, then that's a good sign of a problem. Check your air filter and spark plugs first and replace them if they are worn or degraded. Then, make sure that your injector isn't stuck, and if it is then order a new fuel-injection system from Breakeryard. If none of these seems to be the cause then the issue is more mechanical. It could be a dragging brake or even something incredibly basic like under-inflated tyres.
Difficulty level
