Overview and Common Failures
Body and Interior
The paint is thin and easily scratched, but the body is galvanized and doesn't rust much. Corrosion can be found easily on the fifth door, as well as on suspension and exhaust components. The interior is made of hard plastic, strange in terms of ergonomics, and lacks sound insulation. The electrical system often malfunctions, especially the onboard computer and climate control.
Engine
The 1.6-liter engine K4M with a cast iron block has a very long service life. The worst thing that can happen to it is valve bending due to belt breakage. The 2.0-liter F4R engine is equally reliable, also only fearing belt breakage. However, due to its high compression ratio, it is not recommended to use gasoline below AI-95. The 1.6-liter power unit H4M with an aluminum block is not as durable as the engines described above, but it causes fewer minor issues.
Transmission
The 5-speed manual transmission JR5 is not known for its smooth gear changes, but it is quite reliable. The 6-speed manual transmission TL8 is much more pleasant to operate and is less prone to breakdowns. In the early years, there were cases of transmission failure due to insufficient lubrication at the factory. Renault DP2 and DP8 automatic transmissions have a bad reputation, but they perform well on Terrano. The cross joint of the propeller shaft is the weak point of the all-wheel drive system.
Suspension
The suspension is reliable and only the shock absorbers and stabilizer bushings need replacement up to 100,000 km. With very aggressive driving, the shock absorbers and ball joints may require replacement. The steering rack itself is reliable, but the power steering often leaks through the hoses.
Braking System
There are no specific complaints from owners regarding the car's braking system.
