Nissan Terrano 2 with a 2.4 liter petrol engine: everything you need to know before buying

Nissan Terrano 2 is a legendary SUV that has gained popularity due to its reliability and cross-country ability. Petrol version with motor 2.4 l (KD24) has become one of the most popular in the secondary market, especially in the CIS countries. This car is ideal for those who value simplicity of design, maintainability and the ability to overcome off-road conditions without unnecessary electronic bells and whistles.

However, like any other car of considerable age, Terrano 2 has its own characteristics. In this article we will look at technical specifications petrol version, typical KD24 engine problems, real fuel consumption, and also give practical advice on operation and tuning. If you are planning a purchase or are already an owner, here you will find answers to key questions.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Terrano 2 2.4 petrol

Under the hood Nissan Terrano 2 With a gasoline engine, a naturally aspirated engine is installed KD24 volume 2.4 liters. This unit belongs to the series KA, known for its reliability and simplicity of design. Let's look at its main parameters:

• 🔧 Engine type: petrol, in-line, 4-cylinder, 16-valve (DOHC)
• 📏 Volume: 2389 cm³
• ⚡ Power: 135–140 hp (depending on year of manufacture and market)
• 🌀 Torque: 200–206 Nm at 3600–4000 rpm
• ⛽ Fuel: AI-92 (AI-95 is recommended for better performance)
• 🔄 Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission
• 🚙 Drive: full (Part-Time) or rear (for some modifications)

Feature Terrano 2 is its frame and dependent suspension on the axles, which provides excellent cross-country ability, but somewhat worsens comfort on asphalt. The car was equipped transfer case with reduction gear, which makes it a real SUV, and not a “SUV”. The weight of the machine varies from 1.6 to 1.8 tons depending on the configuration.

It is worth noting that the KD24 engine does not have hydraulic compensators, therefore requires regular valve adjustment (every 20–30 thousand km). This is an important point that is often missed when buying a used one.

Parameter	Meaning
Maximum speed	160–170 km/h (electronically limited)
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	14–16 seconds (manual transmission)
Fuel consumption (city)	13–16 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (highway)	9–11 l/100 km
Fuel tank capacity	65–70 liters

Weaknesses and typical problems of the KD24 engine

Despite its simplicity and reliability, the engine KD24 has several “diseases” that you should know about in advance. Many of them are related to the age of the car and poor quality maintenance.

One of the most vulnerable places is cooling system. Radiators and pipes deteriorate over time, and the thermostat often gets stuck in the closed position, which leads to overheating. It also often fails pump, which can result in serious consequences if the problem is not noticed in time.

• ⚠️ Problems with the cylinder head: cracks between valves (especially when overheated), wear of guide bushings.
• ⚠️ Oil leaks: crankshaft seals, valve cover, rear camshaft seal.
• ⚠️ Sensors: Temperature, knock, and throttle position sensors often fail.
• ⚠️ Fuel system: clogging of injectors, wear of the fuel pump (on models with an injector).

⚠️ Attention! If you hear a knocking sound at the top when starting a cold engine, this may be a sign camshaft wear or problems with hydraulic tappets (if installed). In this case, urgent diagnostics are required, since ignoring the problem will lead to expensive repairs.

Another common problem is vibrations at idle. Most often they are associated with:

• 🔧 wear of engine mounts;
• 🔧 malfunction of high-voltage wires or spark plugs;
• 🔧 clogged throttle valve;
• 🔧 driveshaft imbalance (on all-wheel drive versions).

If you buy Terrano 2 with mileage, be sure to check:

Condition of the radiator and cooling system pipes|

Oil level and color (whether there is any emulsion or metal shavings)|

Thermostat operation (the engine should warm up to 90°C in 5–7 minutes)|

Compression in the cylinders (norm: 12–13 bar, spread no more than 1 bar) |

Condition of the timing belt (on the KD24 it is chain, but the attachments are driven by belts)|

No leaks from under the valve cover and seals -->

Real fuel consumption: city, highway, off-road

Official fuel consumption data for Nissan Terrano 2 2.4 often diverge from real indicators. The passport usually shows the numbers in the area 10–12 l/100 km in a mixed cycle, but in practice it all depends on driving style, engine condition and operating conditions.

Here are the numbers the owners give:

• 🏙️ City: 14–18 l/100 km (in winter it can reach up to 20 l due to long warm-up).
• 🛣️ Route (90–110 km/h): 9–12 l/100 km.
• 🌲 Off-road: 18–25 l/100 km (depending on all-wheel drive and downshift).

Consumption is greatly affected by:

• 🔧 Air filter condition (a clogged filter increases consumption by 10–15%).
• 🔧 Tire pressure (flat tires - +2–3 l/100 km).
• 🔧 Fuel quality (AI-92 vs AI-95).
• 🔧 Air conditioner on (+1–2 l/100 km).

⚠️ Attention! If your fuel consumption suddenly increases by 20–30%, this may be a sign lambda probe malfunction, air leaks in the intake manifold or problems with absolute pressure sensor (MAP-sensor). In this case, computer diagnostics is required.

To reduce consumption, experienced owners recommend:

Comparison with diesel versions of Terrano 2: which is better?

In addition to gasoline KD24, Terrano 2 equipped with diesel engines TD27 (2.7 l) and TD42 (3.0 l). Each of them has its pros and cons. Let's compare:

Parameter	Gasoline 2.4 (KD24)	Diesel 2.7 (TD27)	Diesel 3.0 (TD42)
Power	135–140 hp	95–100 hp	110–120 hp
Torque	200–206 Nm	220–240 Nm	260–280 Nm
Fuel consumption (combined cycle)	12–15 l/100 km	8–10 l/100 km	9–11 l/10 km
Maintainability	High	Average (problems with injection pump)	Low (difficulty with spare parts)
Patency	good	Excellent (more torque at low speeds)	Best (ideal for off-road)

Main advantages of the petrol version:

• ✅ Easier to repair and cheaper to maintain.
• ✅ Fewer problems with starting in cold weather (diesels require pre-heating).
• ✅ Less vibration and noise.

Advantages of diesel versions:

• ✅ Higher torque (better for off-road use).
• ✅ Lower fuel consumption (20–30% more economical).
• ✅ Longer engine life (with proper maintenance).

The choice between petrol and diesel depends on your priorities. If you need reliable and easy to repair car for the city and light off-road - KD24 will be the best option. If you are planning serious off-road or often drive long distances, you should consider a diesel engine. TD27 (but be prepared for higher costs for fuel and injection pump repairs).

Maintenance and repair: what the owner needs to know

To Nissan Terrano 2 2.4 served for a long time and without serious breakdowns, it is necessary to adhere to the maintenance schedule. Here are the main points:

• 🔧 Oil change: every 7–10 thousand km (use semi-synthetic 10W-40 or 5W-40).
• 🔧 Replacing the air filter: every 15–20 thousand km.
• 🔧 Valve adjustment: every 20–30 thousand km (required!).
• 🔧 Replacing attachment belts: every 50–60 thousand km.
• 🔧 Flushing the cooling system: once every 2 years or 40 thousand km.

Particular attention should be paid transmissions. The oil in the transfer case and axles must be changed regularly (every 50–60 thousand km). Transmission oil suitable for manual transmission GL-4 80W-90, for distribution - GL-5 85W-90.

If your Terrano 2 equipped automatic transmission, be prepared for more frequent oil changes (every 30–40 thousand km) and possible problems with the torque converter. The automatic transmission on these cars is not reliable, especially when towing or driving off-road.

⚠️ Attention! Never tow Terrano 2 with an automatic transmission on a flexible coupling - this is almost guaranteed to lead to gearbox failure. Use only a rigid hitch or tow truck.

Other common jobs include:

• 🔧 Replacement of axle shaft seals (leak on runs over 150 thousand km).
• 🔧 Repair or replacement of the steering linkage (play appears over time).
• 🔧 Replacement of wheel bearings (resource - 100-150 thousand km).
• 🔧 Checking and cleaning the contacts in the fuse box (a common cause of electronics “glitches”).

For self-repair, it is useful to have on hand:

• 🔧 A set of heads and keys (especially heads for 10, 12, 14, 17).
• 🔧 Puller for retaining rings.
• 🔧 Torque wrench (for tightening cylinder head bolts and other critical connections).
• 🔧 Compressometer (to check compression).

Where to look for spare parts for Terrano 2?

The cheapest and most accessible spare parts - from Nissan Pathfinder R50 (they are completely interchangeable with Terrano 2). Parts from Ford Maverick And Mistubishi Montero Sport (first generation). For diesel versions, you sometimes have to order spare parts from Japan or Europe, but KD24 gasoline engines are common everywhere, and there are usually no problems with spare parts.

Tuning and modernization: how to improve Terrano 2 2.4

Despite his advanced age, Nissan Terrano 2 has great potential for tuning. Owners usually divide modernization into three areas: appearance, chassis And engine.

Let's start with the simplest thing - external tuning:

• 🎨 Installation kenguryatnik or power bumper (models from ARB or Ironman 4x4 are popular).
• 🎨 Replacing optics with LED or xenon (but don’t forget about the legality!).
• 🎨 Pasting with vinyl film or painting in camouflage.
• 🎨 Installation winches (usually 9-12 thousand pounds).

More serious changes concern chassis:

• 🚙 Elevator kit (increasing ground clearance by 2–5 cm due to spacers or replacing springs).
• 🚙 Installation reinforced shock absorbers (for example Monroe or KYB).
• 🚙 Replacing standard wheels with off-road tires (popular sizes: 235/75 R15 or 265/70 R16).
• 🚙 Installation differential locks (eg ARB Air Locker).

Regarding engine, then there are fewer options here, but they are:

• ⚡ Chip tuning (reflashing the ECU to increase power by 10–15%).
• ⚡ Installation exhaust manifold 4-2-1 (improves exhaust gas removal).
• ⚡ Replacement throttle valve to a larger diameter model (for example, from Nissan Skyline).
• ⚡ Installation cold air intake (K&N or similar).

One of the most popular tuning options is motor replacement. In place of a regular KD24 often put:

• 🔧 VQ35DE (3.5 l, 240–280 hp) from Nissan Skyline or 350Z.
• 🔧 SR20DET (2.0 l, turbo, 200–250 hp) from Nissan Silvia.
• 🔧 1UZ-FE (4.0 l, V8, 260 hp) from Lexus GS400 (requires modification of fastenings).

⚠️ Attention! When replacing the engine with a more powerful one, do not forget to strengthen gearbox and transfer case, since standard units may not withstand the increased load. The cooling system and brakes will also need modifications.

If you are not ready for serious modifications, you can limit yourself to cosmetic improvements and installation off-road accessoriesthat will make your Terrano 2 more practical and stylish.

Owner reviews: pros and cons of the gasoline version

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Terrano 2 2.4, let's look at reviews from real owners. We analyzed forums and social networks to highlight the main pros and cons of this car.

Pros (according to owners):

• ✅ Reliability: “I’ve been driving for 5 years now, I’ve never let me down. I only change the oil and change the wheels for the winter.”
• ✅ Patency: "Passing where Toyota RAV4 And Honda CR-V They don't even try."
• ✅ Maintainability: "Any part can be found at a disassembly site or a new one can be ordered without any problems."
• ✅ Comfort: “For a frame SUV, the suspension is very soft. You don't get tired on the track."
• ✅ Price: "I bought it for 300 thousand rubles in good condition - cheaper than new Duster and more reliable."

Cons (what owners complain about):

• ❌ Fuel consumption: “In the city it eats like a truck. We have to count every liter."
• ❌ Noise: "At speeds above 100 km/h it starts to hum like an airplane."
• ❌ Corrosion: “The sills and arches are rusting. If you don’t take care, it will rot in 2-3 years.”
• ❌ Electrical: "Sometimes the dashboard glitches, especially if it's wet."
• ❌ Lack of modern options: "No heated seats, climate control, rear view camera."

Many owners note that Terrano 2 - this is a car "not for everyone". It is suitable for those who appreciate simplicity, reliability and maneuverability, but does not expect the comfort of a premium crossover from it. If you need "a car for every day", which is not afraid of holes and dirt, then this SUV will be an excellent choice.

From interesting observations:

• 🔧 Owners diesel versions more often complain about problems with fuel injection pumps and starting in cold weather.
• 🔧 Those who travel by gasoline, are less likely to encounter serious breakdowns, but more often with small things (leaks, sensors).
• 🔧 Almost everyone agrees that automatic transmission — the weak point of the machine.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Terrano 2 2.4

❓ What is the resource of the KD24 engine?

With proper maintenance (regular oil changes, valve adjustment, monitoring the cooling system), the engine KD24 passes easily 300–400 thousand km. There are examples with mileage over 500 thousand km, but they require major repairs (replacement of rings, liners, sometimes boring of the block). The main thing is to avoid overheating and use high-quality oil.

❓ Is it possible to install gas on Terrano 2 2.4?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

• 🔧 Engine KD24 has high compression ratio (about 9.5:1), so it requires adjusting the HBO for 4th generation injector with ignition timing correction.
• 🔧 Gas reduces the life of the valves (due to the lack of lubrication provided by gasoline), so they will have to be adjusted more often.
• 🔧 Gas consumption will be 10–15% higher than gasoline (about 15–18 l/100 km in the city).

If you decide to install gas equipment, choose trusted installers and do not skimp on components.

❓ What oil to pour into the KD24 engine?

Recommended oils:

• 🔧 Summer: 10W-40 or 15W-40 (semi-synthetic).
• 🔧 Winter: 5W-40 (synthetic or semi-synthetic).
• 🔧 All season: 5W-40 or 10W-40.

Popular brands: Mobil 1, Castrol, Liqui Moly, Motul. The main thing is that the oil meets the specification API SG/SH or higher. Engine oil volume - 4.5–4.7 liters (with filter replacement).

❓ What is the ground clearance of Terrano 2 and can it be increased?

Standard ground clearance (clearance) Nissan Terrano 2 is:

• 📏 Under the front bumper: 200–210 mm.
• 📏 Under the rear axle: 220–230 mm.
• 📏 Under the distributor: 240–250 mm.

You can increase clearance in several ways:

• 🔧 Install spacers under the springs (gives +2–3 cm).
• 🔧 Put higher springs (for example, from Nissan Patrol GR).
• 🔧 Replace shock absorbers with long-stroke (For example, Ironman 4x4 Foam Cell).

The optimal lift for everyday driving - 3–5 cm. It is not recommended to lift it further without modifying the steering rods and driveshafts.

❓ Which tires are better to choose for Terrano 2?

The choice of tires depends on operating conditions:

• 🛣️ Asphalt (60% driving): Yokohama Geolandar A/T, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, Toyo Open Country A/T II.
• 🌲 Off-road (40% or more): BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3, Mickey Thompson Baja Boss M/T, Nitto Trail Grappler M/T.
• ❄️ Winter: Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT3, Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2, Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac