Bought a 3.1TD in 2006 and kept it for just 8 months, during which time it had
1500 quid in repairs done (under the extended warranty). Had trouble with everything
but the engine. However, I feel lucky. On our Jeep forum we get new member after new
member with VM trouble. It's always the same head problem. It costs an arm and a leg
to fix.
The CRD is much better, but there are a few reports of gearbox issues. This Merc
gearbox is treated as a sealed unit, and Jeep will quote you over 7000 quid for a new one.
Even assuming you never had any problems, the VM is positively agricultural compared to
the Merc engine.