By Finn Hart The 1995 Nissan Terrano presents several issues pertinent to potential buyers and current owners. Common problems include engine oil leaks, rough transmission shifts, and worn suspension bushings, boasting consumer satisfaction rates of 70%, 65%, and 75%, respectively. Safety recalls address fuel leaks and braking failures, raising reliability concerns. Owners appreciate the vehicle's durability for family trips and off-road adventures, although the electrical system poses challenges with alternators and batteries, reflecting a 60% satisfaction rate. Cost of ownership averages $1,200 annually for fuel and $500 for repairs, while resale value ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. Insights await regarding effective purchasing tips.
Overview of the 1995 Terrano
The 1995 Nissan Terrano is a compact SUV designed for city and off-road driving. It targets a wide range of drivers who want a vehicle that works well in different settings.
The Terrano usually has either a 2.7-liter diesel engine or a 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine. The diesel engine produces about 100 horsepower, while the petrol engine offers around 150 horsepower. This gives the car a good mix of power and fuel efficiency. Its four-wheel-drive system helps it handle rough roads, making it attractive to those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Inside, the Terrano offers a comfortable ride with plenty of room for up to five people. The cabin includes features like air conditioning, power windows, and an AM/FM radio, which were advanced for its time.
Safety was a key part of the Terrano's design. It comes with anti-lock brakes, and later models have dual airbags, making it a good choice for families.
Compared to other SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape, the Terrano is known for being tough and capable off-road. While the RAV4 focuses on city driving comfort, the Terrano balances both city and off-road use, appealing to those who need a versatile vehicle.
Common problems reported for the 1995 Terrano
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Oil leaks | Moderate | No significant change over years | Visible oil spots under vehicle | Reduced engine performance | 70% |
| Transmission | Rough shifting | High | Increased reports in later models | Slipping gears, delayed engagement | Poor acceleration and efficiency | 65% |
| Suspension | Worn bushings and shocks | Moderate | Reports increased after 10 years | Noisy ride, uneven tire wear | Decreased ride comfort | 75% |
| Electrical System | Faulty alternator and battery issues | High | Consistent across model years | Difficulty starting, dimming lights | Reliability issues | 60% |
| Brakes | Premature wear of brake pads | Moderate | No significant change | Squeaking noise, reduced braking efficiency | Increased stopping distance | 80% |
| Cooling System | Radiator leaks and overheating | Moderate | Reports steady across model years | High temperature gauge, coolant puddles | Risk of engine damage | 70% |
| Fuel System | Clogged fuel filter | Moderate | Reports slightly increased in later models | Engine stalling, poor acceleration | Decreased fuel efficiency | 75% |
Issues with the 1995 Nissan Terrano
Engine
- Problem: Oil leaks
- Frequency: Moderate
- Change Over Time: No significant change
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle
- Impact: Reduced engine performance
- Satisfaction: 70%
Transmission
- Problem: Rough shifting
- Frequency: High
- Change Over Time: More reports in later models
- Symptoms: Slipping gears, delayed engagement
- Impact: Poor acceleration and efficiency
- Satisfaction: 65%
Suspension
- Problem: Worn bushings and shocks
- Frequency: Moderate
- Change Over Time: Increases after 10 years
- Symptoms: Noisy ride, uneven tire wear
- Impact: Decreased ride comfort
- Satisfaction: 75%
Electrical System
- Problem: Faulty alternators and battery issues
- Frequency: High
- Change Over Time: Consistent across years
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dimming lights
- Impact: Reliability issues
- Satisfaction: 60%
Brakes
- Problem: Premature wear of brake pads
- Frequency: Moderate
- Change Over Time: No significant change
- Symptoms: Squeaking noise, reduced braking efficiency
- Impact: Increased stopping distance
- Satisfaction: 80%
Cooling System
- Problem: Radiator leaks and overheating
- Frequency: Moderate
- Change Over Time: Reports steady
- Symptoms: High temperature gauge, coolant puddles
- Impact: Risk of engine damage
- Satisfaction: 70%
Fuel System
- Problem: Clogged fuel filters
- Frequency: Moderate
- Change Over Time: Slight increase in later models
- Symptoms: Engine stalling, poor acceleration
- Impact: Decreased fuel efficiency
- Satisfaction: 75%
Recall information specific to the 1995 Terrano
The 1995 Nissan Terrano had several recalls due to safety and reliability issues. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified problems that needed fixing to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
Here are the main concerns:
- Fuel System Leaks: There was a chance of fuel leaking, which could cause fires.
- Braking System Issues: The brakes might stop working suddenly, leading to accidents.
- Steering Column Problems: Issues with the steering column could cause loss of control.
- Electrical System Faults: Electrical problems affected lights, increasing the risk of night accidents.
Nissan started recalls to fix these problems. Owners of the 1995 Terrano were encouraged to contact local dealerships for repairs.
This action aimed to prevent accidents and ensure the car's safety. Knowing about these recalls helps current and future owners understand the vehicle's reliability.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 1995 model
How do people feel about the 1995 Nissan Terrano's reliability and satisfaction? Many owners think it's reliable. They like its strong build and say it lasts a long time. Most don't have many mechanical problems, which they credit to good engineering.
People are generally happy with this model. They find it useful for family trips and off-road adventures. The inside is roomy with lots of cargo space. It rides smoothly, and the controls are easy to use.
Some owners mention rust, especially around the wheel arches, which affects how it looks. Also, while it's okay on fuel, some expected it to be better, given its size.
In terms of safety, it may not match today's standards, but owners feel safe because it's solidly built.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Terrano model years
The 1995 Nissan Terrano is known for being reliable and practical. When compared to earlier and later models, there are some noticeable differences in design, technology, and performance.
The 1987 Terrano was designed with a focus on off-road driving. It had a rugged look and used simpler mechanical parts. This made it easier to maintain but less smooth to drive. These models were made for people who loved off-roading more than comfort.
By 1996, the Terrano started to change. It became more suitable for city driving. The design improved with better aerodynamics, and the interior got more features like power windows and advanced audio systems. This made it more appealing to families and people who drive daily. But, this shift sometimes reduced its off-road capability.
The 1999 Nissan Terrano II continued to add luxury features. It included modern safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes, which made it safer and more comfortable. However, these features made the vehicle heavier, impacting fuel efficiency and off-road performance compared to older models.
Tips for buying a used 1995 Terrano
If you're thinking about buying a used 1995 Nissan Terrano, make sure to check it out properly. This car is known for handling rough roads well, but it might have some problems you should look out for.
- Check the Body and Frame: Look for rust, especially around the wheel arches and underneath. Rust can be a big problem, especially in places with tough weather. A car with a clean body might mean the last owner took good care of it.
- Look at the Engine and Transmission: When you test drive, pay attention to strange noises. The engine should run smoothly without too many shakes or leaks. The Terrano has a strong engine, but if it hasn't been looked after, it could be expensive to fix.
- Check the Service Records: Go through the service records to see how well the car was maintained. Look for regular oil changes, big repairs, and any recalls that were fixed.
- Test the Suspension and Steering: Since the Terrano is built for off-road driving, check the suspension parts for wear. During a test drive, notice if the steering feels right and if the ride is comfortable.
Maintenance recommendations for the 1995 Terrano
To keep your 1995 Nissan Terrano running well, follow a simple maintenance schedule. This helps prevent problems and keeps your car in good shape. Here are the basic tasks to do:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 miles or 3 months |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles |
| Brake Fluid Check | Every 2 years |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000 miles |
| Coolant Flush | Every 30,000 miles |
Change the oil regularly to keep the engine parts working smoothly. A new air filter helps your car breathe better and use fuel more efficiently. Check the brake fluid to avoid problems with the brakes. Rotate the tires so they wear evenly and last longer. Flushing the coolant keeps the engine from overheating.
Make a note of these tasks in a log to remember when to do them.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
When thinking about buying a 1995 Nissan Terrano, you need to think about how much you can sell it for later and how much it will cost to keep it running. This SUV looks tough and has features that some people really like. But how much you can sell it for and how much it costs to own depends on things like how far it's been driven, its condition, and how many people want it.
The 1995 Nissan Terrano usually loses value steadily, about 15% each year. So, if you sell it, you might get between $1,500 and $3,000. This depends on how well it's been taken care of and its overall condition.
If you're planning to own it for a while, think about costs like gas, insurance, and fixing it up. Here's a quick look at these costs:
| Cost Type | Estimated Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $1,200 | This is for 15,000 miles with current gas prices. |
| Insurance | $800 | This can change based on your driving history and where you live. |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $500 | Regular maintenance and unexpected repairs could change this amount. |
These costs help you understand what owning a 1995 Nissan Terrano might mean for your wallet.
People Also Ask
What Are the Best Aftermarket Parts for the 1995 Nissan Terrano?
For a 1995 Nissan Terrano, the best aftermarket parts are better shocks for a smoother ride, special air filters to help the engine breathe better, and stronger brake pads to stop quickly and safely. These parts help the car work well and last longer.
How Does the 1995 Terrano Perform Off-Road Compared to Others?
The 1995 Nissan Terrano is good for off-road driving because it has strong four-wheel drive and a tough frame. However, newer off-road vehicles might be better because they have more advanced technology and features.
What Are Common Modifications for the 1995 Nissan Terrano?
People often make changes to the 1995 Nissan Terrano to make it better for off-road adventures. They add stronger suspension, bigger tires, and special bumpers. Some also change the exhaust system to make the engine work better and sound cooler.
How Fuel-Efficient Is the 1995 Nissan Terrano in Urban Driving?
The 1995 Nissan Terrano gets about 16-20 miles per gallon when driving in the city. How you drive and take care of the car can change this number. So, if you drive smoothly and keep the car in good shape, it might use less fuel.
Are There Known Electrical Issues With the 1995 Nissan Terrano?
Yes, the 1995 Nissan Terrano can have electrical problems like bad wiring or parts not working right. To keep it running well, it's important to check it regularly and fix any issues you find. This can make the car more reliable.