NISSAN TERRANO Buying Guide & Reliability (1993-2006)

The Nissan Terrano, produced between 1993 and 2006, is a compact SUV that has garnered attention for its robust design and versatility. With a total of 115 registration plates recorded, the model has seen various iterations over the years, including notable years such as 1996, 1998, and 2006.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

NISSAN TERRANO Overview

The Nissan Terrano, produced between 1993 and 2006, is a compact SUV that has garnered attention for its robust design and versatility. With a total of 115 registration plates recorded, the model has seen various iterations over the years, including notable years such as 1996, 1998, and 2006.

In terms of performance, the Nissan Terrano boasts a MOT pass rate of 70.4%, indicating a reasonable level of reliability among its owners. However, it is essential to be aware of common failures that may arise. The most frequent issues reported include problems related to the body and structure (10 failures), lighting (9 failures), brakes (9 failures), and tyres (9 failures). Additionally, there are 17 failures categorised as 'Other'.

Fuel type distribution shows a strong preference for diesel, with 113 diesel models compared to just 2 petrol variants. This preference aligns with the vehicle's reputation for efficiency and durability, particularly in the diesel segment.

Colour distribution reveals that silver is the most popular choice among owners, accounting for 38 vehicles, followed by blue (21), green (15), red (13), and black (10). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Yearly distribution indicates that the majority of Terranos on the road are from 2003 (36 vehicles), followed by 2004 (25 vehicles) and 2002 (20 vehicles). The average annual mileage for these vehicles stands at 4,621 miles, suggesting that many owners use their Terranos for moderate travel.

Tax status distribution shows that 53 vehicles are untaxed, while 42 are SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and 20 are currently taxed. This data reflects the varying levels of usage and ownership among the Nissan Terrano community.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available records and may not reflect the most current statistics. Always verify information with official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The Nissan Terrano, produced between 1993 and 2006, has a total of 115 registered vehicles in the UK. With an overall MOT pass rate of 70.4%, this model demonstrates a reasonable level of reliability for its age. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues that may arise during the MOT testing process.

Among the 1,882 MOT tests conducted on the Nissan Terrano, the most frequent reasons for failure include categories such as 'Other' (17 failures), 'Body & Structure' (10 failures), and 'Lighting' (9 failures). Additionally, issues with brakes and tyres also accounted for 9 failures each. These statistics highlight the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy.

In terms of fuel type, the vast majority of Nissan Terranos on the road are diesel, with 113 diesel vehicles compared to just 2 petrol variants. This distribution may influence the vehicle's performance and running costs, particularly in relation to fuel efficiency and emissions.

When examining the colour distribution of the Nissan Terrano, silver is the most common colour, with 38 vehicles, followed by blue (21), green (15), red (13), and black (10). This variety may appeal to different aesthetic preferences among potential buyers.

Regarding tax status, a significant number of Terranos are currently untaxed (53), while 42 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and only 20 are taxed. This could indicate that many owners may not be using their vehicles regularly, which could affect their overall condition.

It is essential to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the current state of all Nissan Terrano vehicles. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough research and consider obtaining a professional inspection before making a purchase.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used Nissan Terrano, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure a sound purchase. With a total of 115 registration plates recorded, this model has been on the market for a considerable time, spanning from 1993 to 2006. Understanding the vehicle's history and condition is crucial.

First, check the MOT history. The Nissan Terrano has a pass rate of 70.4%, which indicates that a significant number of these vehicles may have issues that need addressing. Pay particular attention to common failure categories, which include:

  • Other: 17 failures
  • Body & Structure: 10 failures
  • Lighting: 9 failures
  • Brakes: 9 failures
  • Tyres: 9 failures

These statistics suggest that potential buyers should inspect the bodywork, lighting systems, and braking components thoroughly. Additionally, consider the fuel type; the majority of Terranos are diesel (113 out of 115), which may influence running costs and maintenance.

Next, assess the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for a Nissan Terrano is approximately 4,621 miles, which can help gauge the vehicle's usage and wear. A vehicle with significantly higher mileage may have more wear and tear, while one with lower mileage could be a better investment.

Also, check the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the 115 registered Terranos, 53 are untaxed, 42 are SORN, and only 20 are currently taxed. This information can provide insight into the vehicle's usage and maintenance history.

Finally, consider the vehicle's colour distribution, with silver being the most common (38 vehicles). While this may not affect performance, it can influence resale value.

Always verify the data accuracy and consult with a professional if needed before making a purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The Nissan Terrano, produced between 1993 and 2006, has a total of 115 registration plates recorded in the UK. This model is predominantly diesel, with 113 units compared to just 2 petrol variants. The average annual mileage for the Terrano is approximately 4,621 miles, which can help potential owners estimate their running costs.

In terms of taxation, the distribution shows that 53 vehicles are untaxed, 42 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and only 20 are currently taxed. This indicates a significant number of Terranos may not be actively on the road, which could affect availability and pricing in the used car market.

The Nissan Terrano has undergone a total of 1,882 MOT tests, with a pass rate of 70.4%. This suggests that while many vehicles are roadworthy, there are common issues that owners should be aware of. The most frequent failures are categorised as follows: 17 failures in 'Other', 10 in 'Body & Structure', 9 in 'Lighting', 9 in 'Brakes', and 9 in 'Tyres'. These statistics highlight areas where potential buyers should exercise caution.

Colour distribution among the Terrano models shows a preference for silver (38 units), followed by blue (21), green (15), red (13), and black (10). The year distribution indicates that the majority of models are from the years 2003 (36 units), 2004 (25 units), and 2002 (20 units), suggesting these may be more readily available in the market.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the current status of all vehicles. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough checks and consider obtaining a vehicle history report.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the Nissan Terrano, it may be beneficial to explore alternative models that offer similar features and performance. The Terrano, produced between 1993 and 2006, has a total of 115 registration plates in the UK, with a notable MOT pass rate of 70.4%. However, potential buyers should be aware of common failures, including issues related to body and structure, lighting, brakes, and tyres.

One alternative to consider is the Nissan X-Trail, which offers a more modern design and improved fuel efficiency. The X-Trail has gained popularity for its spacious interior and advanced safety features, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

Another option is the Toyota RAV4, known for its reliability and robust build quality. The RAV4 has a solid reputation for longevity and offers a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The Ford Kuga is also worth considering, particularly for those who value a dynamic driving experience. With its stylish design and range of efficient engines, the Kuga appeals to a younger demographic while still providing ample space and comfort.

For buyers interested in diesel options, the majority of Nissan Terrano models are diesel (113 out of 115), which may influence your choice. The Peugeot 3008 is another diesel alternative that combines practicality with a stylish interior, making it a popular choice among compact SUV buyers.

In summary, while the Nissan Terrano has its merits, exploring alternatives like the Nissan X-Trail, Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga, and Peugeot 3008 can provide you with a broader range of options to suit your needs. Always ensure to check the latest data and reviews to make an informed decision.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the Nissan Terrano produced?

The Nissan Terrano was produced between 1993 and 2006, with various models released throughout this period. The specific model years include 1993, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006.

What is the MOT pass rate for the Nissan Terrano?

The MOT pass rate for the Nissan Terrano stands at 70.4%. This figure indicates the percentage of vehicles that successfully pass their MOT tests without requiring significant repairs.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the Nissan Terrano include issues categorised as 'Other' (17 failures), followed by 'Body & Structure' (10 failures), 'Lighting' (9 failures), 'Brakes' (9 failures), and 'Tyres' (9 failures). These statistics highlight areas where owners may need to pay particular attention.

What fuel types are available for the Nissan Terrano?

The majority of Nissan Terrano vehicles are diesel, with 113 registered as diesel and only 2 as petrol. This distribution suggests a strong preference for diesel among Terrano owners.

What colours are most common for the Nissan Terrano?

The most common colour for the Nissan Terrano is silver, with 38 vehicles registered in this colour. Other popular colours include blue (21), green (15), red (13), and black (10).

How many Nissan Terranos are currently registered?

There are currently 115 registered Nissan Terrano vehicles in the UK. This number reflects the model's ongoing presence in the automotive market.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify details with official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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