Should I buy a Nissan Elgrand?

QUESTION

Hi John,

I listen to you on Radio 2UE and really enjoy the show. I am really interested in a Nissan Elgrand, in my opinion they have style and comfort but being a "grey import" I am hesitant. On the face of it they offer great value for money and every Elgrand owner 

I speak to seems to be happy with them. What do you think? 

Kind regards 

John

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ANSWER

Hi John, 

Thanks for the kind words. The Elgrand is an interesting vehicle. I've never driven one, so I can't help you there. But the price will certainly be cheap, being a grey import.

I can tell you that you will be unlikely to get much support from Nissan dealers relating to the vehicle. The Australian importers hate the thought of you buying a vehicle that they didn't bring here. 

This means parts, diagnostics and crash repair (if you ever need that) will not be as straightforward as it woud be for a locally imported Nissan. You don't get anything for nothing, and this is what you trade off when buying a grey import. 

There is also systematic corruption in the grey import process. The winding back of odometers is common - so definitely bring a mechanic with you to assist you in establishing how far the vehicle has travelled before you buy it. (Often this happens in Japan: it's not necessarily the local importer here in Australia who is responsible.) 

On the plus side you'll save money up front. Aside from the odometer wind-back issue, with online purchasing being a powerful thing these days, I am sure you will be able to source the Elgrand-specific parts online. 

Let me know how you go. 

Sincerely, 

John Cadogan