Nissan Terrano II 1997 is a cult SUV that is still in demand among off-road and practical car enthusiasts. Released on the platform Nissan Pathfinder (R50), this car combined the reliability of Japanese engineering and adaptability to Russian roads. In 1997, the model underwent a number of updates, including revised engines, improved suspension and a more comfortable interior.

Despite his advanced age, Terrano II R20 remains a relevant choice for those who value simplicity of design, maintainability and off-road capabilities. However, the model also has weaknesses - from body corrosion to problems with the automatic transmission. In this article we will look at technical specifications, typical faults, and also give practical advice on operation and repair.

Technical specifications Nissan Terrano II 1997

In 1997 Nissan Terrano II was offered with two body types: three-door (Short Wheelbase) and five-door (Long Wheelbase). The car was equipped with gasoline and diesel engines, as well as all-wheel or rear-wheel drive, depending on the configuration. Below are the key parameters of the model.

Basic versions were equipped 2.4 liter petrol engine KA24E with a power of 135 hp, and the top ones - 3.0 liter V6 VG30E (153 hp). Diesel modifications were equipped 2.7 liter TD27T with turbocharging (100 hp), which was valued for its efficiency and high-torque performance off-road.

Parameter KA24E (2.4) VG30E (3.0) TD27T (2.7)
Engine type Gasoline, R4 Petrol, V6 Diesel, R4
Volume, l 2.4 3.0 2.7
Power, hp 135 153 100
Gearbox Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4 Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4 Manual transmission-5
Drive Full/Rear Full Full

Transmission Terrano II 1997 could be equipped with either a manual or automatic transmission. All-wheel drive versions had transfer case with reduction gear, which made the car universal for urban use and serious off-road use. The suspension—dependent on springs (rear) and independent on double wishbones (front)—provided good cross-country ability while maintaining comfort.

📊 What engine does your Terrano II have?
  • 2.4 KA24E
  • 3.0 VG30E
  • 2.7 TD27T
  • Other

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the reliability Nissan Terrano II The 1997 model has a number of characteristic “diseases” that every owner should be aware of. One of the most common problems is body corrosion, especially in the area of the arches, sills and rear door. This is due to poor-quality anti-corrosion treatment at the factory and aggressive reagents on the roads.

Another common problem is oil leaks from the engine and gearbox. For gasoline engines KA24E And VG30E Over time, the crankshaft and camshaft seals, as well as the valve cover gasket, wear out. For diesel TD27T The high pressure fuel pump often leaks (injection pump). Owners also face:

  • 🔧 Electrical problems - oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, failure of the generator or starter.
  • 🔥 Engine overheating due to a clogged radiator or faulty thermostat (especially important for VG30E).
  • 🛑 Worn clutch and synchronizers in manual transmission with mileage over 200,000 km.
  • 🚗 Play in the steering and ball joints that require regular inspection.
⚠️ Attention: If your Terrano II equipped with an automatic transmission, monitor the oil level and condition. With a mileage of more than 150,000 km, it is recommended to replace the torque converter and solenoids - their wear leads to jerks and delays when shifting gears.

Maintenance and repair: what you need to know

Regular maintenance is the key to longevity Nissan Terrano II. The manufacturer recommends changing the engine oil every 10,000 km, however, for Russian operating conditions it is better to reduce this interval to 7,000–8,000 km. Particular attention should be paid to:

  • 🛢️ Oil in transfer case and axles — it needs to be changed every 50,000 km.
  • 🔧 Brake system — pads and discs wear out faster due to the heavy weight of the car.
  • 🔥 Cooling system — antifreeze should be updated every 2 years, and the radiator should be cleaned of scale.
  • 🔋 To the battery - in cold weather, a weak battery may not be able to start a diesel engine TD27T.

During repairs Terrano II It is important to use quality spare parts. Original parts from Nissan expensive, but they can be replaced with analogues from trusted brands:

  • 🔧 Filters — Mann, Bosch or Framm.
  • 🛢️ Oils - Suitable for gasoline engines 5W-40 (For example, Liqui Moly Leichtlauf), for diesel - 10W-40 (Castrol GTX Diesel).
  • 🔥 Brake pads — Ferodo or ATE.

If you are planning a suspension repair, pay attention to the condition springs and shock absorbers. Over time, the springs sag, which leads to body roll and poor handling. Replacing springs with reinforced ones (for example, from Old Man Emu) will improve cross-country ability and comfort.

Check the density of antifreeze|Change the oil in the engine and gearbox|Check the condition of the glow plugs (for diesel)|Install winter tires marked M+S|Check the operation of the heater and fan-->

Tuning and modifications

Nissan Terrano II 1997 is an excellent base for tuning, both external and technical. Many owners install:

  • 🚙 Elevator kits to increase ground clearance (kits from Ironman 4x4 or OME).
  • 🔧 Crankcase and fuel tank protection for serious off-road use.
  • 🔥 Turbine for gasoline engines (for example, on KA24E install a turbo kit from Garrett).
  • 🎨 External tuning — bumpers from ARB, winches, additional lights.

For diesel versions, replacement is relevant injection pump to a more productive one (for example, from Bosch with increased fuel supply) and installation of an intercooler. This allows you to increase power from 100 to 130–140 hp. without major engine modifications.

When tuning the suspension, it is important not only to increase the ground clearance, but also to strengthen anti-roll bars And steering rods. Otherwise, the car will become less controllable at high speeds. It is also popular to replace standard wheels with wheels of larger diameter (up to 16–17 inches) with off-road tires like BFGoodrich All-Terrain.

What happens if you install a lift kit that is too large?

Installing a lift kit with a height of more than 50 mm without modifying the steering system and shock absorbers will lead to a shift in the center of gravity, deterioration of controllability and increased wear of CV joints. There may also be problems with the angle of the driveshafts, causing vibrations at speeds above 80 km/h.

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

In 1997 Nissan Terrano II competed with such models as Toyota RAV4 (first generation), Mitsubishi Pajero And Suzuki Grand Vitara. However, in terms of price/quality ratio and off-road capabilities Terrano II won most rivals. Below is a comparison of key parameters:

Model Nissan Terrano II (3.0) Mitsubishi Pajero (3.0) Toyota RAV4 (2.0)
Power, hp 153 177 128
Four-wheel drive Permanent Pluggable Pluggable
Ground clearance, mm 210 215 180
Fuel consumption, l/100 km 14–16 15–17 9–11

Advantages of Terrano II:

  • 🔧 Simpler and more maintainable design compared to Pajero.
  • 💰 Lower cost of spare parts and maintenance than Toyota.
  • 🚗 Better cross-country ability thanks to permanent all-wheel drive.

Disadvantages:

  • 🔥 Higher fuel consumption, especially for the version with VG30E.
  • 🛑 Less comfortable suspension at high speeds compared to RAV4.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between petrol and diesel versions, consider the operating conditions. Diesel TD27T more economical and reliable off-road, but requires high-quality fuel and is more difficult to repair. Gasoline VG30E easier to maintain, but consumes more fuel.

How to choose a used 1997 Nissan Terrano II

Upon purchase Terrano II on the secondary market, pay attention to the following points:

  1. Body condition — check the arches, sills and underbody for rust. Welding and fastening areas of springs are especially vulnerable.
  2. Engine — when starting, there should be no extraneous noise (knock of pistons, timing chain). For a diesel engine, check the compression in the cylinders (the norm is not lower than 24–26 bar).
  3. Gearbox — in an automatic transmission there should be no jerks when switching, and in a manual transmission there should be no play in the lever.
  4. Suspension — ride over uneven surfaces: knocks and creaks indicate wear on the silent blocks or ball bearings.
  5. Documents — check whether the car has been in an accident and how often it was serviced.

Average price for Terrano II 1997 in good condition is 300,000–500,000 rubles (for 2026). Diesel versions are usually 10-15% more expensive, but are easier to sell later. During your inspection, be sure to check:

  • 🔧 Transfer case performance — downshifting should be clear.
  • 🔥 Condition of brake discs and pads — their wear may indicate aggressive use.
  • 🛑 Electronics — check the operation of all sensors, heated seats (if equipped) and air conditioning.
💡

Before purchasing, be sure to check the vehicle's VIN number through the services Autocode or CarVertical. This will help identify hidden problems, such as traffic police restrictions or theft.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Owners Nissan Terrano II 1997 note the following advantages of the model:

  • ✅ Reliability — with proper maintenance, the car can easily cover 300,000+ km.
  • ✅ Patency — permanent all-wheel drive and reduction gear help out on off-road conditions.
  • ✅ Easy to repair - Many jobs can be done independently.
  • ✅ Versatility - Suitable for the city, for the country house, and for hunting/fishing.

Among the disadvantages most often mentioned are:

  • ❌ High fuel consumption (especially for VG30E - up to 18 l/100 km in the city).
  • ❌ Poor sound insulation — all extraneous sounds are heard on the highway.
  • ❌ Prone to corrosion — without anti-corrosion treatment, the body quickly rusts.

Many owners also complain about inconvenient location of the transfer case lever (to the right of the driver), which takes some getting used to. However, this drawback is more than compensated for by the reliability and cross-country ability of the car.

💡

The 1997 Nissan Terrano II is an ideal choice for those who value reliability and cross-country ability over comfort. With proper care, the car will last for many more decades, and spare parts and repairs will cost less than many European competitors.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Which engine is better to choose: gasoline or diesel?

The choice depends on the operating conditions:

  • 🔥 Gasoline VG30E Suitable for the city and mixed cycle. It is easier to repair, but consumes more fuel.
  • ⛽ Diesel TD27T more economical and reliable off-road, but requires high-quality fuel and more expensive maintenance.

If you drive mostly on the highway or off-road, choose a diesel. For the city, gasoline is better.

How much oil to pour into the engine KA24E?

Engine oil volume KA24E amounts to 4.5 liters (including filter). Recommended viscosity - 5W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate).

How often do you need to change the oil in the transfer case?

The manufacturer recommends replacement every 50,000 km, but in difficult conditions (frequent off-road, towing), it is better to reduce the interval to 30,000–40,000 km. Use gear oil GL-5 80W-90.

Is it possible to install HBO on Terrano II?

Yes, but with reservations:

  • 🔧 For gasoline engines (KA24E, VG30E) HBO is installed without problems. It is better to choose a 4th generation system.
  • ❌ For diesel TD27T It is not advisable to install HBO - it is difficult and economically unprofitable.

After installation, be sure to adjust the ignition and check the system for leaks.

Which tires are best for winter?

For Terrano II The following options are suitable:

  • 🚗 All-Terrain (universal): BFGoodrich KO2, Yokohama Geolandar A/T.
  • ❄️ Winter studded: Nokian Hakkapeliitta 9, Michelin X-Ice North.
  • 🛑 Winter friction: Continental IceContact 3, Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2.

Optimal size - 235/75 R15 or 265/70 R15 (for lifted versions).