Pick-up truck - Buriram service centres

[Hermit]

I'm only an occasional visitor to the forum, and only an occasional visitor to Buriram.  But one piece of advice I picked up here was to shop at Ruangsangthai Hardware.  We have been doing that, and the advice has turned out to be good - very happy with their service, and particularly their advice. 

Now, as we get closer to moving to live in Buriram it's time to get a pick up truck - cannot keep borrowing the BIL's old D-Max, especially since our next visit will be for three months.  But which truck?  The advice I've gotten here so far has been good ...

What are the quality / reputation of the local dealers?  Any shockers to avoid?  Any gems?   I am interested in:
 - Isuzu (bullet proof)
 - Nissan (same price as Isuzu, but a nicer package / drive)
 - Ford (SUV-like comfort, but will only consider if the Buriram dealer is well above average - I've pretty well discounted the Ranger due to the poor reputation of Thailand's Ford network.)

We will need to do our shopping over the phone if we are to order the truck and have it available when we arrive, so cannot go and check out the dealerships ourselves.

Not too worried about resale value if you are wondering - plan to keep the truck long term.  Need it to last long term actually - we're retiring early with a limited budget. 

We have land near Huai Rat, with a couple of KM of rough dirt road/track between us and the highway.   

Cheers.   

[Freddy]

Hi Hermit,
I only have first hand experience of the Ford dealership. I purchased a Ford Ranger 3.2 wildtrack in September 2014.
The purchase was straightforward with attentive service and escort to the Land Transport Office for registration. No real surprise as usually the case at point of purchase.
The first service visit was trouble free, good service etc...
Second service a little frustrating. We had purchased a 2 service package which I believed covered all standard items and was meant to save us some money. Could be things were lost in translation but I doubt it. Just a con to get you committed to the next service.
3rd and 4th service have been trouble fee, good service, no surprises and no attempts to add extras.
I've had one warranty repair. Auto window switch failed. When I took it in, just a couple of months ago, they identified problem quickly, replacement part ( arrived next day) and fitted immediately. I didn't have to remind them about warranty, they volunteered the info, no argument, no quibble.
So, at 2nd service they annoyed me but all other dealings have actually been very good and I've warmed to them a little.
When it's being serviced I tend to have a wander round the back and watch them working on the truck. Seem to be quite efficient and professional approach.
Always get back old service items as well so can see what's been replaced.
Apart from window switch truck has been trouble free. I really like it.
You, mention SUV - I also like the Everest I'm tempted and IMHO, much better than the Fortuner.

[Hermit]

Thanks for your reply Freddy.  I was hoping to hear Ford horror stories so I could cross it off the list!   What is the service centre like?  Is it Western-like with clean / painted floor and all the right diagnostic equipment like you'd hope Ford would insist on, or ... ?   

May I ask why you went for the Wildtrack over the XLT?  I would want the 3.2 litre engine in the Ford, not trusting the (small) 2.2l to last as long as we need it to.  But the 3.2l Wildtrack is B120K or more over the price of the top Nissan / Isuzu.  The price of the 3.2l XLT is on a par with the top Nissan / Isuzu. 

I drove Ford Falcons (6 Cyl sedans) here in Oz, preferring that over the GM rival as the Ford had an "agricultural" in-line 6 cylinder engine.  There was nothing hi-tech about the engine, but it went forever.  It was just that the rest of the car fell apart / rusted away around it!  How are the Ranger doing in that regard?  Isaan driving conditions have to be some of the harshest of all the Ranger's worldwide markets.  It is this prior experience with Ford (Oz) that will probably steer me away from the Ranger in the end.  Shame, as the ride and handling are exceptional.   

Oh, I only mention SUV in relation to the Ranger's SUV-like ride / handling btw.  Sorry, should have been clearer.  An actual SUV is probably out of my budget anyway, but a truck will suit us better - we're both in our 50s so def no kids on the horizon, and we have 8 or 10 acres which is pretty well just a bare patch of land atm.  I can see plenty of load-carrying in my / my vehicle's future!        

If I was going for an SUV, def not Fortuner.  Seems like every Fortuner I encounter in Thailand is being driven by some ... "entitled" individual treating other traffic with contempt.  Must be something they do to your brain when you purchase one, and I don't want that to happen to me!   

[nookiebear]

I would advise strongly against trying to buy a truck over the phone.....You will get ripped off big style

[Starman]

Thanks for your reply Freddy.  I was hoping to hear Ford horror stories so I could cross it off the list!   What is the service centre like?  Is it Western-like with clean / painted floor and all the right diagnostic equipment like you'd hope Ford would insist on, or ... ?   

May I ask why you went for the Wildtrack over the XLT?  I would want the 3.2 litre engine in the Ford, not trusting the (small) 2.2l to last as long as we need it to.  But the 3.2l Wildtrack is B120K or more over the price of the top Nissan / Isuzu.  The price of the 3.2l XLT is on a par with the top Nissan / Isuzu. 

I drove Ford Falcons (6 Cyl sedans) here in Oz, preferring that over the GM rival as the Ford had an "agricultural" in-line 6 cylinder engine.  There was nothing hi-tech about the engine, but it went forever.  It was just that the rest of the car fell apart / rusted away around it!  How are the Ranger doing in that regard?  Isaan driving conditions have to be some of the harshest of all the Ranger's worldwide markets.  It is this prior experience with Ford (Oz) that will probably steer me away from the Ranger in the end.  Shame, as the ride and handling are exceptional.   

Oh, I only mention SUV in relation to the Ranger's SUV-like ride / handling btw.  Sorry, should have been clearer.  An actual SUV is probably out of my budget anyway, but a truck will suit us better - we're both in our 50s so def no kids on the horizon, and we have 8 or 10 acres which is pretty well just a bare patch of land atm.  I can see plenty of load-carrying in my / my vehicle's future!        

If I was going for an SUV, def not Fortuner.  Seems like every Fortuner I encounter in Thailand is being driven by some ... "entitled" individual treating other traffic with contempt.  Must be something they do to your brain when you purchase one, and I don't want that to happen to me!   

I have a Mazda BT50. Basically the same vehicle as the Ranger. I am very pleased with all aspects of the car and the dealer. I have had it for 2 1/2 years.

You don't need the 3.2l engine. The 2.2 is ample.

[Freddy]

Hi Hermit,
In answer to your questions.

Yes the Ford workshop in Buriram is built and appears to be operated to European standard. Tiled and polished concrete floors, painted/tiled walls etc. They seem to be well knitted out. I've not had the need for engine diagnostic but my best guess is they have all the kit as needed.
As a matter of course I check oil and fluid levels after service. All have always been correct. I've never had any after service problems or issues.
Apart from window switch replacement as previously mentioned the only other issue o had was a flat battery. My fault entirely as I left the dash cam plugged in for 2/3 days without driving. It was completely dead. Jumper leads to start it and it's back to full charge with no issues 2/3 months since. I was expecting it to die again but it's been fine. Seems to be good quality heavy duty.

Why did I go for the Wildtrack. Just like the interior and exterior styling. Nicer wheels, step bar, leather, trim etc. Only intended to buy the one vehicle and keep for many years so just opted for top of the range. Nothing wrong with the XLTs and I believe they now have another modem that sits between the XLT and the Wildtrack. Different wheels got some graphics on the bodywork. Kind of a blacked out look.

I also rate the ride and handling on the Rangers. Prior to purchase I was in a borrowed not old Hilux. Ok truck but the ranger performs and handles better.
I also test drove a Nissan. Personally I just didn't like it but just a matter of taste. I know they are reliable.
My friend bought a new Isuzu a few months ago. He previously had a Wildtrack but his wife started doing market stalls and wanted a smart cab with larger load bed. As the purchase of a new truck hadn't been budgets for they went for the Isuzu purely because they offered the best trade in value on the 3.2 Ranger. He hates it and wishes he'd stumped up the extra for the ranger. I've driven it, it's OK but seems to lack power loaded and certainly doesn't handle as well. Obviously just my opinion.

Regarding bodywork and build quality. Mines nearly 3 yrs old. No rattles, squeaks or buzzes. All feels and sounds as tight as when new. In fact, considering it's a Ford truck I think the build and fit quality is pretty damn good. I'm not a ford man. Before moving here I hadn't owned a Ford since my early 20s. For me it was simply the best option out of what's available on the Thai market and within budget.

No bodywork issues, no seal leaks etc......

Starman. I like the Mazdas. Haven't driven one and really don't know why I didn't go and look when I was buying. Can't say I agree regarding engine size. Sure a 2.2 will do the job and diesels are generally strong and robust these days. Once again I guess it's just a matter of preference. I like the torque range on the 3.2. It pulls like a train and eats long hills. I'm not a slow driver but I'm no racer either. Fully loaded though I will pull away from most other vehicles on hills with no engine strain. I plan on running the Ranger into the ground. If I look after it I may never need to buy another car/truck unless I choose to. The larger engine should allow that to happen.

If I were to buy another truck today I would take a look at Mazda. It may be I looked at pictures and didn't like the interior, I can't remember. I've looked at the new Toyotas ( just for fun) and drove one a couple of weeks ago. It went OK but what I hated was the interior. Compared to the Ranger it felt really small inside the cab. It isn't actually any smaller but the styling just made it feel cramped.

Anyway - chances are if I were buying today I'd get another Ranger or maybe an Everest but would miss the load bed versatility and the dog would muller it. She likes the Ranger too!!

[Starman]

Hi Hermit,
In answer to your questions.

Yes the Ford workshop in Buriram is built and appears to be operated to European standard. Tiled and polished concrete floors, painted/tiled walls etc. They seem to be well knitted out. I've not had the need for engine diagnostic but my best guess is they have all the kit as needed.
As a matter of course I check oil and fluid levels after service. All have always been correct. I've never had any after service problems or issues.
Apart from window switch replacement as previously mentioned the only other issue o had was a flat battery. My fault entirely as I left the dash cam plugged in for 2/3 days without driving. It was completely dead. Jumper leads to start it and it's back to full charge with no issues 2/3 months since. I was expecting it to die again but it's been fine. Seems to be good quality heavy duty.

Why did I go for the Wildtrack. Just like the interior and exterior styling. Nicer wheels, step bar, leather, trim etc. Only intended to buy the one vehicle and keep for many years so just opted for top of the range. Nothing wrong with the XLTs and I believe they now have another modem that sits between the XLT and the Wildtrack. Different wheels got some graphics on the bodywork. Kind of a blacked out look.

I also rate the ride and handling on the Rangers. Prior to purchase I was in a borrowed not old Hilux. Ok truck but the ranger performs and handles better.
I also test drove a Nissan. Personally I just didn't like it but just a matter of taste. I know they are reliable.
My friend bought a new Isuzu a few months ago. He previously had a Wildtrack but his wife started doing market stalls and wanted a smart cab with larger load bed. As the purchase of a new truck hadn't been budgets for they went for the Isuzu purely because they offered the best trade in value on the 3.2 Ranger. He hates it and wishes he'd stumped up the extra for the ranger. I've driven it, it's OK but seems to lack power loaded and certainly doesn't handle as well. Obviously just my opinion.

Regarding bodywork and build quality. Mines nearly 3 yrs old. No rattles, squeaks or buzzes. All feels and sounds as tight as when new. In fact, considering it's a Ford truck I think the build and fit quality is pretty damn good. I'm not a ford man. Before moving here I hadn't owned a Ford since my early 20s. For me it was simply the best option out of what's available on the Thai market and within budget.

No bodywork issues, no seal leaks etc......

Starman. I like the Mazdas. Haven't driven one and really don't know why I didn't go and look when I was buying. Can't say I agree regarding engine size. Sure a 2.2 will do the job and diesels are generally strong and robust these days. Once again I guess it's just a matter of preference. I like the torque range on the 3.2. It pulls like a train and eats long hills. I'm not a slow driver but I'm no racer either. Fully loaded though I will pull away from most other vehicles on hills with no engine strain. I plan on running the Ranger into the ground. If I look after it I may never need to buy another car/truck unless I choose to. The larger engine should allow that to happen.

If I were to buy another truck today I would take a look at Mazda. It may be I looked at pictures and didn't like the interior, I can't remember. I've looked at the new Toyotas ( just for fun) and drove one a couple of weeks ago. It went OK but what I hated was the interior. Compared to the Ranger it felt really small inside the cab. It isn't actually any smaller but the styling just made it feel cramped.

Anyway - chances are if I were buying today I'd get another Ranger or maybe an Everest but would miss the load bed versatility and the dog would muller it. She likes the Ranger too!!

I do a lot of mileage in my car, often full loaded, and I assure you that the 2.2d turbo engine is more than sufficient.

[Freddy]

I'm glad your happy with it.

[Freddy]

I would advise strongly against trying to buy a truck over the phone.....You will get ripped off big style

Hermit, just worth a mention. Most of the dealerships here seem to have on-site stock. Unless you've a list of specifics you should be able to purchase and drive away within a couple of days. If memory serves me correctly we paid deposit on Wednesday afternoon and picked up truck Friday morning. You'll have anything from a month upwards on red plates.
I'd tend to agree with Nookie and avoid a phone purchase simply because TIT.

[DeputyDavid]

I can give personal experiences with Ford Ranger and Toyota Fortuner Sportivo 2.8 4WD. I would not buy the current 2.8 and AT setup as there is an inherent problem with 6th gear being too high and shift pattern suffers. Works great in cruise control mode but on Thai roads cruise control can not be used for extended periods. This is the same engine trans combo that is in the Revo.

The Ford 2.2 6speed manual is no speed demon off the line but it cruises nicely and really has plenty of power for everyday hauling. I would suggest the XLT Highrider. I am very happy with it. I got a good discount with Bed liner rear bumper running boards and first year insurance as well as window film at no additional cost.  As for service at Buriram Ford I have been in a couple of times and no issues at all. I had a dead battery for unknown reason (the outlet for the dash cam has no power to it when the car is turned off so that couldn't be the cause. I may have left the door ajar and the interior light was on is most likely.)
Anyhow I took it in and they did a system check and all was well. No issues since. No charge for the diagnosis.

Best of luck in your search.

[Freddy]

DD. Interesting regarding your dash am having no power when truck switched off. I wonder why different ranger models would have that different set up. If I don't pull the plug from the 12v my camera stays on record permanently.

[Hermit]

...

Starman. I like the Mazdas. Haven't driven one and really don't know why I didn't go and look when I was buying. Can't say I agree regarding engine size. Sure a 2.2 will do the job and diesels are generally strong and robust these days. Once again I guess it's just a matter of preference. I like the torque range on the 3.2. It pulls like a train and eats long hills. I'm not a slow driver but I'm no racer either. Fully loaded though I will pull away from most other vehicles on hills with no engine strain. I plan on running the Ranger into the ground. If I look after it I may never need to buy another car/truck unless I choose to. The larger engine should allow that to happen.

I do a lot of mileage in my car, often full loaded, and I assure you that the 2.2d turbo engine is more than sufficient.

I'm with Freddy on this one - for a vehicle I intend keeping long term, I prefer a larger engine that is going to chug along at lower RPM.  Older technology is preferred, as hopefully most of the kinks have already been ironed out.  Fuel consumption is a lesser consideration for me.  I'll leave the tiny engine / screaming turbos to Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, they can afford six new engines in a (Formula 1) season!   

[Starman]

100kms/h  at under 2500rpm hardly screaming.

Funny how people who have never driven such a vehicle ask for advice and then tbink they know better.

[Freddy]

It's not about thinking we know better, just opinion or personal preference. I've owned and driven diesel cars since my mid 20s. I've had 1.8L to 3.2L engines. My preference is to have the larger engine. Manufacturers make a range of engine sizes for that very reason. To suit personal preference and requirement.

[Starman]

It's not about thinking we know better, just opinion or personal preference. I've owned and driven diesel cars since my mid 20s. I've had 1.8L to 3.2L engines. My preference is to have the larger engine. Manufacturers make a range of engine sizes for that very reason. To suit personal preference and requirement.

We??? I don't remember you asking for advice.