Replacing jimny

I currently have an 02 plate Jimmy which I have had for 8 years which I am wanting to replace. I have been to look at several others around an 08 plate but am finding they all have serious issues with corrosion. They all look visually in good nick but on closer inspection have structural issues. Is this a common problem or have i just been unlucky. The ones I have seen have not been cheap but need plenty spending on them. Does anyone know a reputable dealer in the west yorkshire area or someone who specialises in repairing Jimmy chassis. Any advice would be appreciated

I think it's fair to say that the GEN 3 Jimny has poor rust protection in comparison to other vehicle manufacturers. That said the way it's been used and looked after by previous owners as a big contribution to the state of the underside. When I was looking for ours I was shocked by the level of surface rust on those I looked at, eventually settling on a 09 plate with a low amount of surface rust starting in the usual areas. This has now all been rectified by me so it's a well protected vehicle that should remain rot free for many years.
So surface rust yes, but none I looked at required any welding or repairs due to rot or damage, maybe I was just lucky!
It was difficult to find suitable Jimny's to look at, I traveled many miles until I found ours. You really do just have to keep looking until you find one you like. Can't help with a dealer in your area, but keep looking, good ones are about.
Mike

What's wrong with the one you have? It's got the better gearbox as theose from 2005-2009 have the bearing wear issue.

They all look nice to look at but when you look in the boot floor etc, they're all a bit rusty. You just have to take your time to find the best one.

I'd keep what you have personally though.

Kirkynut

I too would look at keeping what you have if you can't afford a post 2009 with the better gearbox. Alternatively have a word with K.A.P in East Riddlesden. Darren might have a clean one kicking about or know where to start looking.

Remember, the cheapest car is probably the one you already own.
Often, buying another car is akin to buying someone else's problems

If you were to take the budget you have for the new car and spend that on rust repair / paint and other modifications to your 02 plate car. Without doubt, you would have a better car in the restored 02 car.

You are continuing your Jimny ownership, why not do that with a car that you have built. After eight years the 02 plate owes you nothing in reality.

Body off rust repair and respray £1500 - 2000 in a reasonable repair/bodyshop shop. (I was recently quoted 2k for a truck cab conversion, many more hours).

Assuming your budget to be around 5k, that leaves 3k to modify / refresh the now pristine 02 car. That could make quite a tricked out off roader or a very nice road car. Enough to maybe do an engine change and go to 1.6 if that is what you fancy. You do feel a lot of affection for a car that you have rebuilt.

Just a thought.....

sniper