Nissan Terrano The 1997 model remains one of the most reliable and marketable SUVs on the CIS secondary market. This car, often called the "Terrano 2" or R20, was developed on a pickup truck platform Navara, which predetermined its high cross-country ability and carrying capacity. Unlike many competitors of the time, the Japanese engineering approach provided the machine with a balanced geometry and a powerful enough engine for difficult operating conditions.
Owners note that even after more than two decades, the car is able to overcome serious obstacles if it is properly cared for. However, when buying a 1997 copy, you need to be extremely careful: the body elements have already been corroded, and the engine life may have been exhausted. It is especially critical to check the condition of the rear axle and driveline, since replacing them is very expensive.
History of creation and place of the model in the Nissan line
In the mid-90s, the Japanese auto industry was experiencing an SUV boom, and Nissan did not stand aside. The R20 model replaced the first generation, offering customers a more modern platform and improved comfort. The engineers did not reinvent the wheel, but took the proven frame from a pickup truck as a basis. NP300, which made it possible to maintain high reliability at the expense of some softness of the suspension.
The car was positioned as a universal tool: it could take the family to the country and at the same time pull a small trailer or tow a boat. In 1997, the model had already gone through several stages of restyling, which improved interior ergonomics and build quality. This particular year is considered “golden” for buyers, since many childhood diseases of earlier versions have already been eliminated.
- 🚙 Spar-type frame provides high torsional rigidity.
- ⚙️ All-wheel drive connected with reduction gear.
- 🛠️ The body base is unified with the pickup truck Hardbody.
Many experts believe that it was the combination of a rigid frame and independent front suspension that made this car legendary. While competitors used dependent axles at the front, Terrano offered greater comfort on asphalt without loss of maneuverability.
Engines and transmission: What to choose?
For the 1997 market, several powertrain options were offered, but the most popular were the gasoline engines of the series KA24 and YD25. Diesel option TD27 was also in demand due to its endurance, but required careful handling of the fuel system. Gasoline KA24DE the 2.4-liter engine produced about 143 horsepower, which was quite a decent figure for a heavy SUV.
The clutch and gearbox are components that often become a headache during operation. Mechanical K5W or automatic RE5R05A (on later versions) have their own nuances.
- 🔧 Gasoline KA24DE — reliable, but gluttonous (15-18 l/100 km).
- 🌱 Diesel TD27 — high-torque, but sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel.
- ⚙️ Gearboxes of the front and rear axles require checking the backlashes.
If you plan to use the car for serious off-roading, it is better to give preference to a manual transmission. It is easier to repair and allows you to more accurately dose torque. At the same time, do not forget about the transfer case: the mode switching mechanism 2H, 4H, 4L should work smoothly, without jamming.
⚠️ Attention: When checking the engine at idle speed, be sure to pay attention to the presence of vibrations. Severe shaking may indicate worn out cushions or problems with the ignition system.
- Gasoline KA24DE
- Diesel TD27
- Another option
Suspension and chassis: Features of operation
Suspension design Nissan Terrano 1997 is a classic combination of an independent front axle and a dependent rear axle. The double wishbone front suspension provides good handling on the highway, but requires careful inspection of the ball joints and stabilizer links off-road. The rear axle on springs can withstand enormous loads, but can create discomfort when the trunk is empty.
Chassis components often wear unevenly. The rear springs can sag over time, changing the ground clearance and wheel alignment angles. Front control arms often bend during serious impacts, which leads to wheel alignment problems. Regular suspension diagnostics will help you avoid sudden breakdowns along the way.
☑️ Checking the suspension
The steering on this car is rack and pinion, which is an advantage over the steering gears of many competitors. However, the steering rack tends to leak, especially if the car is operated in conditions of high humidity or dirt. Hydraulic power steering requires the use of only high-quality fluid PSF.
- 🛑 Brakes: disc front, drum rear (on most trim levels).
- 🌪️ Wheels: standard size R15 or R16 with a wide profile.
- 🔩 Fastenings: subframe mounting bolts can stick to the frame.
Secrets of cross-country ability
Installing a winch and power bumpers increases cross-country ability, but increases weight and fuel consumption. Don't forget to reinforce the frame at the attachment points.
Body and corrosion: The main enemies of a car
Body Nissan Terrano 1997, despite the galvanization of some elements, is susceptible to corrosion. This is a typical problem for Japanese cars of that period, especially if the car was driven on salty roads. Most often, rust appears on the sills, arches, underbody and in the area where the bumpers are attached. Particular attention should be paid to hidden cavities where dirt and water get in.
When inspecting the car, be sure to check the condition of the side members and the underbody. If the frame has deep pockets of corrosion, it is not economically feasible to repair such a machine. It is also worth paying attention to the doors and trunk lid: moisture often accumulates there, leading to rotting of the cermets and oxidation of contacts.
⚠️ Attention: Never buy a car whose frame has through corrosion or traces of poor-quality welding. This is a critical defect that threatens safety.
The paintwork often has chips and scratches, which over time turn into pockets of rust. Regular washing and anticorrosive treatment are mandatory procedures to preserve the body. If you notice blistering of the paint, remove the rust immediately and apply a protective compound.
Weaknesses and frequent malfunctions
Despite the overall reliability, Terrano 1997 has a number of specific problems that every potential buyer should be aware of. The cooling system often suffers from radiator or pump leaks. Brake hoses can become dull and crack, which is dangerous during heavy braking. The electrics are also not perfect: oxygen sensors and idle air controls often fail.
Transmission problems can manifest as shifting jerks or noise. In automatic transmissions, the clutches and torque converter often wear out. A manual transmission may be noisy due to wear on the transfer case bearings. Regular maintenance helps avoid most of these problems.
The ignition system on gasoline engines is sensitive to the quality of spark plugs and wires. Misfires lead to loss of power and increased fuel consumption. On diesel engines, it is critical to monitor the condition of the injectors and injection pump. Contaminated fuel can damage expensive fuel system components.
| Knot | Common problem | Symptoms | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiator | Plastic leak | Antifreeze level drops | Radiator replacement or tank repair |
| injection pump | Wear of plunger pair | Difficult start, smoke | Adjusting or replacing fuel injection pump |
| CV joints | Anther rupture | Clicking noise when turning | Replacing the CV joint and boot |
| Catalyst | Cell destruction | Exhaust sound, smell | Removing the catalyst or replacing it |
When changing engine oil, use a long life filter and check the condition of the oil pan gasket.
Operation and Maintenance: Tips for Owners
To Nissan Terrano 1997 served for a long time, it is necessary to comply with the maintenance regulations. The engine oil should be changed every 10-15 thousand kilometers, and the transmission oil should be changed every 40-60 thousand. The use of high-quality consumables significantly extends the life of vehicle components. Ignoring these rules may lead to major repairs.
Particular attention should be paid to the cooling system. Antifreeze needs to be changed every two years, and the pipes should be checked for cracks. Overheating the engine can lead to deformation of the cylinder head and costly repairs. It is also important to monitor the oil level in the transfer case and gearboxes.
Winter operation requires preparation: checking the battery, replacing winter tires and checking the condition of the wiring. During the cold season, the engine takes longer to warm up, so you shouldn’t load it right away. Use a preheater if the temperature drops below -20°C.
Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality consumables are the key to the long service life of the 1997 Nissan Terrano.
Conclusion and final recommendations
Nissan Terrano 1997 is a car with character that demands respect and attention. It is not suitable for those who are looking for a comfortable city crossover, but it will be an ideal choice for those who love active recreation and are not afraid of dirt. With a competent approach to purchase and maintenance, this SUV will serve you faithfully for many more years.
The main thing is not to skimp on diagnostics and repairs. It’s better to overpay for a good copy than to invest huge amounts of money in restoring a damaged car. Study the history of the car, check the documents and carefully inspect each component before purchasing. This is the only way you can avoid unpleasant surprises.
Owners Terrano often unite in clubs where they share experiences and advice. Join the community to receive up-to-date information on spare parts and repair methods. This will help you better understand the features of your car and save on maintenance.
Which engine is better to choose for Nissan Terrano 1997?
For city use, gasoline is better suited KA24DE, since it is easier to maintain and more reliable when using low-quality fuel. For long trips and off-road use, diesel is preferable TD27, which has high torque and efficiency.
How reliable is the automatic transmission on this model?
Machine RE5R05A Reliable enough with regular oil changes. However, with a mileage of over 200,000 km, problems with clutches may arise. If you do not know the service history of the transmission, it is better to consider the option with a manual transmission.
What are the main body problems with the 1997 Nissan Terrano?
The most common problem is corrosion of the sills, arches and bottom. The mounting points of the bumpers and side members also rust. When purchasing, be sure to inspect the body for traces of rust and poor quality repairs.
Can the 1997 Nissan Terrano be used as a primary family car?
Yes, the car is spacious and comfortable enough for a family. However, fuel consumption for the petrol version is high, and the suspension can be harsh for rear seat passengers. If you're looking for comfort, consider other options.