Just to give a slight idea of maintenance costs for older suvs.
My 2006 shogun/pajero was embassy imported and used until 2020. It was in good condition.
I do 90% my own work which saves me a headache of local ustaad ji's.
An oil change for this thing costs around 12-13k with filter. Takes around 8L of oil. Air filters are around 3500 for Malaysian and 6-8k for originals.
Starter solenoid failed. Replaced one from Bilal ganj. Relatively cheap.
Brake accumulator motor failure. I removed the hbb unit myself and was able to source a used motor from Bilal ganj. Also had the stator on the original one redone. Again, cheap.
Belts needed doing. Found some bando and mitsuboshi replacements from market. Again, cheap.
Hbb accumulator started acting up. 40,000 Rs for a new one through parts central. Replaced and working well. Replaced brake fluid at the same time.
Transmission fluid service. Original mitsubishi sp-iii fluid, 4L can, 12,000 each. I went through 3.5 cans for a full exchange.
Power steering fluid service. Found some valvoline dexiii which I used in my every van transmission.
Now, the rear suspension was a bit wallowy and swaying around curves. I did a rear suspension inspection myself and found one rear shock leaking, and trailing arm bushings cracked. Control arm bushings looked a bit weathered as well.
I ordered a full bushing set for the rear along with 2 kyb rear shocks. 72,000Rs for parts through parts central.
I think my point is, if you want a 20 yr old SUV, be ready to spend money like this to maintain it to its original standard.
If you don't care, you can just rag on the thing with hopes and prayers.
Or, purchase a newer type vehicle which will not require as much work.
My suggestion would be to be extremely patient. Try to find an embassy vehicle that was well maintained, or an enthusiast driven vehicle. That way, you know for a fact someone has cared for the thing.
In my experience, no matter what the vehicle is, good maintenance history is the KEY point in finding a reliable used vehicle. However, this does not mean it will be 100% trouble free.
I gave the above monetary values in hopes of having you understand what it is like in the real world to own one of these magnificent vehicles.
