Many car enthusiasts, when choosing a reliable used SUV, pay attention to Nissan Terrano first generation, known in the WD21 body. This car became a true legend of the 90s, offering a unique balance between the comfort of a passenger car and the cross-country ability of a real jeep. The owners still share conflicting opinions about its operation in modern Russian conditions.
Today we will look at not only the official characteristics, but also real reviews those who live with this car every day. You will learn about hidden body problems, the nuances of the transmission and whether it is worth getting involved with it SUV in 2026. The article is based on an analysis of hundreds of messages from specialized forums and owner clubs.
History of creation and overall reliability assessment
Model Nissan Terrano (WD21) was developed in the late 80s as a response to the growing demand for compact crossovers. Unlike many competitors of that time, it immediately received full all-wheel drive and a reduction gear. This decision made it incredibly popular not only in Japan, but also in countries with harsh climates.
Owners often note that frame The car is made with a large margin of safety. However, it is worth understanding that the age of the car leaves its mark. Corrosion becomes the main enemy, especially if the car was operated in coastal areas or regions with aggressive reagents. A unique feature of the WD21 is the ability to quickly change axles without dismantling the frame, which is critical for restoring maneuverability.
Some users complain about the stiffness of the suspension, but this is the price to pay for its durability. If you are looking for a car for the city, you should think about replacing the shock absorbers with softer analogues. But for off-road the original setting chassis fits perfectly, providing predictable behavior on rocks and mud.
Engines: gasoline and diesel in real operation
Under the hood Nissan Terrano Most often there are two types of engines: naturally aspirated gasoline Z24i and turbodiesel TD25. Gasoline versions are valued for their simplicity of design and the absence of complex fuel equipment. They are capable of running on low-octane fuel, which makes their maintenance cheaper.
Diesel modifications, especially turbocharged ones, provide excellent traction at low speeds. This allows you to feel confident when towing a trailer or driving uphill. However, the owners turbodiesels warn about the need for high-quality fuel and regular replacement of fuel filters, otherwise the turbine may fail.
- ✅ Gasoline engine
Z24ireliable, but requires frequent oil changes to preserve service life. - ✅ Diesel
TD25economical, but sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel and the condition of the nozzles. - ✅ Cooling systems require regular checking, as overheating is critical for both types of engines.
It is important to note that the safety margin of the cylinder blocks allows them to withstand significant mileage. Many copies travel more than 500 thousand kilometers without major repairs, if routine maintenance is followed. But ignoring the replacement belt drive can lead to serious timing damage.
Transmission and all-wheel drive system
All-wheel drive system 4WD in the WD21 model it is implemented through a transfer case with a reduction gear. Control is carried out by a mechanical lever, which eliminates the breakdown of electronic sensors typical of newer models. Owners praise this system for its reliability and clarity of the operating algorithm.
However, there are nuances that you need to know about before purchasing. The transfer case requires regular oil changes, otherwise problems with mode switching may occur. It is also worth checking the condition of the driveshafts and crosspieces, since vibration during movement often signals their wear.
- Gasoline Z24i
- Diesel TD25
- HBO
- Doesn't matter
The clutch on these vehicles often lasts a long time, but with aggressive off-road driving it may require replacement early. If you plan to use the car for serious expeditions, pay attention to the condition differentials and their blocking. The absence of electronic locking requires the driver to have a good feeling of skidding.
When downshifting the transfer case, be sure to stop and depress the clutch to avoid damaging the gears.
Body and corrosion problems
Corrosion is the biggest pain of owners Nissan Terrano WD21. Body panels, especially arches, sills and underbody, are susceptible to rot if not properly cared for. Owners who did not pay attention to anti-corrosion treatment are faced with serious problems after 10-15 years of operation.
Particular attention should be paid to the attachment points of the suspension and frame. Cracks in welds can cause suspension components to come off while underway. Therefore, when inspecting the car, be sure to lift it on a lift and carefully examine the condition of the metal in hard-to-reach places.
- ✅ Thresholds and arches are the first places where rust appears and require regular monitoring.
- ✅ The bottom often suffers from stones and reagents, so it is important to do high-quality anticorrosive treatment.
- ✅ The suspension fastenings to the frame may rust, which reduces the safety of operation.
Window regulators and door locks also often fail due to moisture getting inside the mechanisms. Electrics are generally simple, but oxidation of contacts at wiring connections can cause unpredictable failures. It is recommended to check the condition masses engine and body.
Comparison with competitors and choice of equipment
Main competitor Nissan Terrano at one time there was Toyota RAV4 first generation. If we compare them, Nissan wins in cross-country ability due to its longer wheelbase and classic frame. Toyota, on the other hand, offers a more comfortable suspension, but a less reliable transmission for serious off-road use.
When choosing a configuration, you should pay attention to the presence of power steering and air conditioning. These options make life much easier, but may require repairs due to age. Basic versions often do not even have power windows, which makes their operation in winter inconvenient.
| Parameter | Nissan Terrano WD21 | Toyota RAV4 (XA10) | Subaru Forester (SF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive type | Full, framed | Full, monocoque | Full, monocoque |
| Body strength | High | Average | Average |
| Maintainability | Excellent | good | Average |
| Comfort in the cabin | Medium | good | High |
Some buyers compare this model with Mitsubishi Pajero Junior. The latter is more maneuverable in the city, but less passable on serious off-road conditions. The choice depends on your priorities: if you need a car for forests and dirt, Nissan will be preferable.
☑️ Check before purchase
Operation in winter conditions
Winter operation Nissan Terrano has its own characteristics. High ground clearance and all-wheel drive allow you to feel confident in the snowdrifts, but the stiff suspension can transmit every bump into the cabin. It is important to choose the right winter tires, since standard wheels often do not provide sufficient grip on ice.
The interior heating system works efficiently, but warming up the engine can take a long time. Owners recommend installing preheaters or at least an insulating cover on the radiator. This will help reach operating temperature faster and reduce engine wear.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use antifreeze with a low freezing threshold without checking the cooling system, as old radiators may not withstand pressure changes.
The clutch and gearbox require careful handling in low temperatures. The oil in the transmission thickens, and sudden movements of the lever can lead to gear breakage. Allow the vehicle to warm up before driving, especially if you plan to drive off-road.
What to do if your car gets stuck in the snow?
Try gently rocking the car while switching between reverse and forward gears. Use boards or mats under the wheels to increase traction. If that doesn't work, try digging out the snow around the tires, but don't use a tow rope without a secure attachment.
Tips for maintenance and tuning
To extend the life of the vehicle, it is necessary to follow the maintenance regulations. Regularly changing oil, filters and spark plugs is the basis for a long engine life. It is also worth monitoring the condition of attachment belts and timing chains.
Many owners are engaged in tuning Nissan Terrano, installing stiffer shock absorbers and increasing ground clearance. This improves cross-country ability, but may have a negative impact on comfort and handling. Be careful when installing winches and power bumpers as this increases the load on the frame.
- ✅ Regularly check the belt tension and the condition of the pulleys.
- ✅ Use high-quality oils that meet the manufacturer's specifications.
- ✅ Do not allow the engine to overheat when driving in difficult conditions.
If you're planning on major modifications, be sure to consult with off-road specialists. Improper installation of lift kits can lead to steering and suspension problems. Remember that safety must come first.
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of consumables is the key to the long life of your SUV, regardless of its age.
Results: is it worth buying?
To summarize, we can say that Nissan Terrano WD21 is a car for those who value reliability and cross-country ability over comfort. It is easy to repair, has accessible spare parts and is capable of overcoming any obstacles. However, the age of the car requires careful inspection before purchase.
If you find a copy with a good body and working technical parts, you will get a reliable assistant for many years. But be prepared for the fact that the car will require investment and attention. This is not a car for those who just want to get in and drive without problems.
⚠️ Attention: Buying a “live” copy can be a difficult task, since most cars already have serious traces of corrosion or have covered 300 thousand kilometers.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your goals and budget. If you need a true SUV for work or outdoor recreation, the Nissan Terrano is a great choice. But if you are looking for a comfortable city crossover, it is better to consider more modern options.
How to distinguish an original spare part from a fake?
Pay attention to the labeling, quality of plastic and packaging. The original always has clear logos and barcodes. Counterfeits often have uneven seams and blurred printing.
Which engine is more reliable: gasoline or diesel?
The Z24i gasoline engine is considered more reliable and less demanding on fuel. The diesel TD25 provides better efficiency and traction, but requires high-quality fuel and regular maintenance.
How long does the body actually last?
The service life of the body depends on operating conditions and the quality of anti-corrosion treatment. With proper care, the body can last more than 20 years, but in aggressive conditions, rust can appear within 10 years.
Do I need to change the oil in the transfer case?
Yes, changing the oil in the transfer case is required every 40-60 thousand kilometers. This will prevent wear on the gears and ensure smooth switching between all-wheel drive modes.
Which tires are best for Nissan Terrano?
For off-road use, off-road tires with an aggressive tread are recommended. For city and mixed conditions, all-season tires with good snow performance are suitable.
Is it difficult to find spare parts?
Spare parts for Nissan Terrano WD21 are still available on the market. Many parts can be found in disassemblies or ordered from Japan. However, some body parts may be in short supply.