Well I hope this helps:

1)I bought my pajero knowing nothing about engines or diesel systems and have had a good time figuring things out with help from the posts on this forum.

2)The japanese have really strict laws about emissions on older vehicles (5 years old I believe, feel free to correct me). However, I have heard that it is not illegal to roll back the odometer. That being said, everyone's pajero seems to be in the 80,000 to 150,000km range.

3)The 4d56 engine is supposed to be extreamly reliable (2.5L). The 4m40 engine (2.8L, probably the one you test drove) is from what I've heard, not built quite as strong but has obviously more horsepower.

4)I got mine from global garage in nanaimo, taking the ferry was a pain. I'm sure theres tons of places on the mainland (saw one in Burnaby I think).

5)I take my pajero into crown tech auto in North Van when I have issues that I can't deal with myself or use them to order specific parts (just ordering a new intercooler fan through them from japan). Despite making a mistake once, they have been very good to me there.

I have had quite a few issues with my pajero, but those could easily be associated with bad luck (blown head gasket, auto transmission needed reconditioning).

But I do not regret buying it and have learned a lot about them, which is cool.



If anyone has anything to add or tell me I'm wrong about anything please feel free.