Nissan Terrano 1991: a legendary SUV with history - everything you need to know

Nissan Terrano 1991 is not just a car, but a real symbol of the era. Released at the height of the popularity of frame SUVs, it has become one of the most sought-after vehicles on the secondary market due to its reliability, simple design and excellent off-road capability. First generation Terrano (also known as Mistral or Pathfinder in different regions) was built on the basis Nissan Navara and shared many technical solutions with it, but at the same time offered a more comfortable interior and improved sound insulation.

Today 1991 Nissan Terrano - this is a rarity, but its owners value the car for its unpretentiousness and the ability to repair it yourself. However, the model also has weaknesses: body corrosion, problems with the transfer case and an outdated injection system. In this article we will look at technical specifications, typical malfunctions, nuances of operation and we will give practical advice on maintenance. If you are planning to buy or already own this SUV, this information will help you save time and money.

1991 Nissan Terrano Specifications

In 1991 Nissan Terrano was offered with several engine and transmission options, depending on the market. The most common were gasoline engines with a volume of 2.4 l (KA24E) and diesel 2.7 l (TD27). The latter were valued for their efficiency and reliability, but required a more careful attitude to fuel and oil.

Gearboxes presented 5-speed manual And 4-speed automatic (rare for this generation). All-wheel drive is plug-in, with a transfer case with a reduction gear. The suspension was dependent on leaf springs at the front and rear, which provided excellent cross-country ability, but not the best comfort on asphalt.

• 🔧 Engines: 2.4 l KA24E (101–114 hp), 2.7 l TD27 (85–92 hp), 3.0 l VG30i (135–153 hp)
• 🔄 Transmission: Manual transmission-5, automatic transmission-4, all-wheel drive Part-Time
• 📏 Dimensions: 4540×1740×1830 mm, wheelbase 2530 mm
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 12–15 l/100 km (gasoline), 9–11 l/100 km (diesel)

A feature of the 1991 model is the absence of electronic injection control on gasoline versions (carburetor or mono-injection), which simplifies repairs, but reduces efficiency. Diesel modifications were equipped with a mechanical injection pump, sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the legendary reliability, Nissan Terrano The first generation has a number of “diseases” that every owner should know about. The main one is body corrosion, especially in the areas:

• 🚗 Thresholds and lower parts of doors - They rust first due to the accumulation of dirt.
• 🔩 Spring mountings — often rot, which leads to suspension separation.
• 🛠️ Spars and frame - require regular anti-corrosion treatment.

The second common problem is transfer case. Over time, bearings and gears wear out, and a hum or difficulty shifting gears appears. Also suffers rear axle: backlash in the gearbox and oil seal leaks are common phenomena after 200,000 km.

⚠️ Attention: If you hear a hum from the transfer case when driving at a speed of 60–80 km/h, immediately check the oil level. Dry driving leads to gear jamming and costly repairs.

Knot	Typical fault	Average repair cost (2026)
Transfer case	Bearing wear, seal leakage	15 000 – 40 000 ₽
Rear axle	Gearbox play, axle shaft wear	20 000 – 50 000 ₽
Body (sills)	Through corrosion	30,000 – 100,000 ₽ (welding + painting)
Diesel injection pump	Wear of plunger pairs	25,000 – 60,000 ₽ (repair/replacement)

Maintenance and repair: what needs to be done regularly

To Nissan Terrano 1991 has served for decades, follow a simple maintenance schedule:

1. Every 5,000 km: changing oil and filters (engine, transmission). For a diesel engine, check the fuel filter.
2. Every 20,000 km: valve adjustment (on gasoline engines), brake fluid replacement.
3. Every 50,000 km: replacing the timing belt (on VG30i), checking the condition of the springs and shock absorbers.

Pay special attention cooling system: radiators Terrano prone to clogging, and the pump often leaks after 150,000 km. Also don't forget about lubrication of cardan shafts - their crosspieces wear out faster if maintenance is ignored.

Check antifreeze (replace every 2 years)|Lubricate door hinges and locks|Check the operation of the stove and thermostat|Replace spark plugs (gasoline) or filters (diesel)|Treat the body with anticorrosive

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Diagnostic advice: If the engine KA24E starts to "trouble" at idle, check first distributor And high voltage wires - they often fail. On diesels TD27 When there is a loss of power the culprit is usually injection pump or clogged injectors.

Tuning and modernization: what can be improved

Owners Nissan Terrano 1991 People often ask the question: how to make a car more modern without losing reliability? Here are a few proven options:

• 🔋 Electronics: Installation ECU from newer models (for example, from Pathfinder R50) to improve injection.
• 🛡️ Protection: Reinforced bumpers and crankcase protection (relevant for off-road use).
• 🔊 Comfort: Replacing the standard radio with a modern one Bluetooth and a rear view camera.
• 🔥 Engine: Diesel turbocharging TD27 (requires strengthening of checkpoints).

A popular upgrade is replacing standard ones springs on springs with gas shock absorbers. This improves handling on asphalt, but reduces payload. Many also install disc brakes on the rear axle (instead of drum ones), which shortens the braking distance.

How to increase ground clearance without a body lift?

The easiest way is to install spacers under the springs (1-2 inches). However, this reduces stability at high speed. An alternative is to replace the springs with stiffer ones (for example, from Nissan Patrol), but this requires modification of the fastenings.

⚠️ Attention: When installing wheels more 31 inches you will have to modify the arches or use a lift kit. Otherwise, the rubber will touch the fender liners when turning.

Where to buy spare parts and how much they cost

Find original spare parts for Nissan Terrano 1991 It’s not easy today, but there are several proven ways:

• 🌍 Foreign online stores: eBay, Amazon, RockAuto — used parts in good condition are often found there.
• 🏭 Analogues: Many parts are interchangeable with Nissan Navara D21 And Hardbody.
• 🔧 Showdown: In Russia and the CIS countries there are still examples for disassembly, especially in regions with a dry climate (less rust).

Prices for popular spare parts (2026):

Detail	Original (used)	Analogue (new)
Clutch (set)	8 000 – 15 000 ₽	5 000 – 10 000 ₽
Cooling radiator	6 000 – 12 000 ₽	4 500 – 8 000 ₽
Wheel bearing	3 000 – 6 000 ₽	1 500 – 3 500 ₽
Injection pump (diesel)	30 000 – 60 000 ₽	25,000 – 50,000 ₽ (repair)

Cost of Nissan Terrano 1991 on the secondary market

Price for Nissan Terrano 1991 depends on the condition of the body, mileage and configuration. In 2026 the range is:

• 💰 Project to restore: 80,000 – 150,000 ₽ (with rust, not running).
• 🚙 In good condition: 250,000 – 400,000 ₽ (no corrosion, engine running).
• 🏆 Collectibles: 500,000 ₽+ (full mince, low mileage, diesel).

The most expensive are versions with engine VG30i (3.0 l) and automatic transmission. Diesel TD27 prized for their economy, but are harder to find in good condition. When purchasing, be sure to check:

Condition of the side members and frame (drill out rusty spots) | Operation of the transfer case in all gears | Compression in the cylinders (normal: 10–12 bar) | Condition of the springs and shock absorbers | Presence of oil stains under the engine

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Owner reviews: pros and cons

Owners Nissan Terrano 1991 The following advantages are highlighted:

• ✅ Simplicity of design: "Can be fixed in a garage with minimal tools."
• ✅ Patency: "It picks up where modern SUVs fall short."
• ✅ Diesel reliability: "TD27 lasts 500,000+ km with proper maintenance."

The most often mentioned disadvantages are:

• ❌ Rust: “If you don’t take care, the body rots in 5–7 years.”
• ❌ Noise: “On the highway it’s louder than a tractor—there’s no sound insulation.”
• ❌ Fuel consumption: "The petrol version consumes 15–18 l/100 km in the city."

Many note that Terrano — This is not a car for everyone. It requires constant attention, but in return it gives a unique driving experience and the ability to conquer off-road terrain without electronics or “assistants.”

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Terrano 1991

Is it possible to install a diesel engine from another Nissan on a 1991 Terrano?

Yes, but with modifications. For example, TD27T (turbo) from Patrol or TD42 (4.2 l) physically fits into the place of the standard one, but you will need:

• Modification of engine mounts.
• Replacing the clutch with a reinforced one.
• Exhaust system adaptation.

You also need to take into account that the power will increase, and the gearbox may not withstand the load without strengthening.

What kind of gasoline should I put in the KA24E?

Octane number - not lower AI-92. Can be poured AI-95, but without additives (the old injection system is sensitive to fuel quality). If the engine begins to knock ("ring"), check:

• Ignition timing.
• Condition of the spark plugs (the gap should be 0.8–1.0 mm).

What to do if the transfer case does not turn on?

The reasons may be different:

1. Low oil level - top up GL-5 80W-90.
2. Fork or clutch wear - Requires disassembly and replacement.
3. Lever problems — check the rods and bushings.

If the transfer case turns on with a crunch, do not force it - this is a sign of gear wear.

How much does a 1991 Nissan Terrano weigh?

Weight depends on the configuration:

• Gasoline, manual transmission: 1650–1750 kg.
• Diesel, manual transmission: 1750–1850 kg.
• With automatic: +50–100 kg.

Load capacity - up to 500 kg (with a trailer up to 2 tons).

Where can I find wiring diagrams for a 1991 Terrano?

Official diagrams can be downloaded:

• On the forums (nissan-club.ru, 4x4club.ru).
• In the documentation archives (Nissan Service Manual WD21).
• Buy paper manual at Avito or Ozon (price 500–1500 ₽).

Please note: diagrams for Pathfinder And Terrano may differ (for example, in lighting or ignition system).