Models · Nissan
Nissan Navara D40 buying guide
The D40 Navara, built from 2005 to 2015 with the 2.5 dCi four-cylinder diesel and, from 2010, a 3.0 V6 diesel. The engine, gearbox and interior wear well, and the checks centre on the chassis and a few well-known engine items.
The versions
- 2.5 dCi four-cylinder diesel: 144hp to 190hp across the run, 190PS after the 2010 facelift
- 3.0 V6 diesel from 2010: 231hp, with a seven-speed automatic
- Double Cab or King Cab, most UK trucks being Double Cabs
- Part-time four-wheel drive selected by a dash knob, with high range on the move and low range
What to check on a D40 Navara
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Chassis rails behind the cab
What to look for: From underneath, look along both chassis rails where the cab meets the load bed and at the front mounting point of the rear suspension. Look for flaking rust, holes, cracks or fresh welded plates. A professional inspection on a lift is the best way to be sure.
Why it matters: Corrosion weakens the chassis rails at these high-stress points, and in a relatively small number of trucks the chassis has broken. 2005 to 2008 trucks appear to be of greatest concern, and heavy loads and towing add stress. Nissan has offered inspections and case-by-case help rather than a recall. Repaired or replacement chassis are available, so ask what has been done.
Timing chain rattle on the 2.5 dCi
What to look for: Start the engine from cold with the bonnet open and listen at the front of the engine. A rattle from the timing chain area, at start-up or as the revs rise and fall, is the thing to note.
Why it matters: The 2.5 dCi uses a single cam chain, a known weak point. If it snaps, the engine will probably need rebuilding or replacing, so a rattle needs investigating before you buy. A duplex chain upgrade is available, and paperwork for it is a good sign.
Heater output and the head gasket
What to look for: With the engine warm, turn the heater to hot and check it blows properly hot air. Check the coolant level and look for signs it has been topped up often.
Why it matters: A heater that stops working is a sign the head gasket has failed on these engines, letting combustion gas into the cooling system.
Also in the full guide
- Engine light, EGR valve and driveshafts
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the D40 Navara
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Nissan.