LDV T60 Common Problems

The LDV T60 is a Chinese-built dual-cab ute from SAIC, launched here in September 2017. Early utes use a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel (SC28R, based on a VM Motori design, 110 kW and 360 Nm) with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic built under licence from Punch Powertrain. The T60 Max arrived in 2021 with a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel (160 kW and 500 Nm) and a ZF 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual, and became the main version. The eT60 electric ute followed in late 2022 with an 88.5 kWh battery and a 130 kW rear motor. The T60 is cheap to buy and well equipped, but owner reviews often report gearbox, electrical and dealer support problems.

Automatic gearbox fluid leaks and loss of drive (automatic models, 2021 to 2023)

Several owners of 2021 to 2023 automatic T60s have written to a motoring Q&A about utes that will not go into gear, cannot decide which gear they want, or have no forward drive at all. The answers pointed to transmission fluid leaks, from a breather, a fill plug or a larger failure, as a likely cause of gear selection problems, and warned owners not to just top up and keep driving. Owner reviews also mention driveline shudder and at least one gearbox replacement. Most of these reports appear to involve T60 Max utes with the ZF 8-speed. On a used ute, check under the gearbox for wet patches, ask for any gearbox repair invoices, and walk away from slipping, delayed engagement or harsh shifts. A failure out of warranty could cost several thousand dollars.

Power loss and limp mode (2.8L and 2.0L bi-turbo, 2018 to 2022)

Loss of power and limp mode are among the most common owner complaints. Reported cases include a 2019 ute losing power only in automatic mode, a 2020 Max going into limp mode with no fault code stored, and a 2022 ute with throttle problems that an accelerator software update did not cure. Owner reviews also mention hesitation, overheating, repeated diesel particulate filter codes, turbo replacement and, in one case, an engine replacement. Causes vary, so ask for every invoice for power loss or warning lights, and have the engine scanned for stored fault codes before you buy. A ute that has been back to the dealer repeatedly for the same problem is a risk.

Electrical, camera and infotainment faults (all T60, 2017 to 2024)

Electrical faults are reported almost as often as engine ones: failed sensors and switches, flat batteries, ignition and gauge faults, USB ports that stop working, reversing cameras that fail, and touchscreens that black out or lose the radio and Apple CarPlay. One 2019 owner found the menus had switched to Chinese after the battery was disconnected, which may need a dealer reset. Reviewers of the 2024 T60 Max also noted inconsistent screen response and hard-to-use haptic climate controls. Test every switch, the screen, the reversing camera and the phone connection, and watch for warning lights on the dash.

Rust, paint and trim quality (all T60, 2017 to 2024)

A number of owners report rust and paint problems, including surface rust appearing early, paint finish faults and, in one case, chassis rust on a ute with very low kilometres. A CarExpert test ute had its plastic tailgate insert already coming loose, and reviewers describe some cabin plastics as low-rent. Check the chassis rails, tub, tailgate, door bottoms and around badges and fittings for rust or bubbling paint, especially on utes used near the coast or on the beach. Rust found early is cheap to treat. Chassis rust is a reason to walk away.

Steering pull and power steering noise (2.8L and 2.0L, 2017 to 2023)

Some owners report the ute pulling to one side and steering components being replaced. The T60 uses hydraulic power steering, and one 2019 owner described the engine running roughly at full steering lock, which a motoring Q&A put down to a worn pump, a slipping belt or low tyre pressure. Reviewers also find the steering heavy at low speed, which is normal for this ute. Turn the wheel lock to lock with the engine running and listen for groaning or a stumble, and check the tyres for uneven wear that points to alignment or steering faults.

Recalls and safety

The T60 was rated five stars by ANCAP in 2017 under older, less strict criteria, and that rating has since expired. Most versions, including the T60 Max, were sold without autonomous emergency braking. LDV said in January 2025 that the T60 would be upgraded to meet the new AEB rules from March 2025, so later builds may differ. Have an LDV dealer check the VIN for open recalls and software updates, and see our recalls page.

Buying a used LDV T60? What to check

• Service history: Ask for the logbook and invoices, because LDV's warranty depends on on-time servicing and can be refused if services were missed.
• Gearbox: Look for fluid leaks under the gearbox and walk away from slipping, delayed engagement or no drive.
• Fault codes: Have the engine and gearbox scanned for stored codes, even with no warning lights on.
• Repair invoices: Check for repeat visits for limp mode, power loss or the particulate filter.
• Electrics: Test every switch, the screen, reversing camera, USB ports and phone connection.
• Rust: Inspect the chassis rails, tub, tailgate and door bottoms for rust or bubbling paint.
• Steering: Turn lock to lock with the engine running and listen for groaning or a stumble.
• Coolant: On a T60 Max, check the coolant and intercooler system levels and look for leaks.
• Towing and load: Check the towbar, rear springs and tub for heavy use, since towing beyond the limits can void warranty claims.

Run a PPSR check for finance owing or a write-off, and use our LDV T60 buying checklist at the inspection.

The verdict

A T60 Max with the 2.0-litre bi-turbo is a better buy than the slower, older 2.8-litre, as long as it has full dealer history and warranty time left (seven years or 200,000 km on later models). Inspect the automatic for leaks and test it hard. Avoid utes with repeat limp mode repairs, rust or missing service records. The eT60 is a niche fleet vehicle with limited towing and range, so only consider one if its charging and range suit your work. Owners often complain about parts delays and dealer support, so check your local dealer's reputation.