The Nissan BR10DE is a 999 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2017. It features a DOHC 12‑valve design with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft, delivering outputs of 52 kW (70 PS) and 96 Nm. The compact three‑cylinder layout enables packaging efficiency and reduced weight for city car applications.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Pixo (a rebadged Suzuki Alto), the BR10DE was engineered for urban economy and low running costs. Its character prioritizes fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance over outright performance. Emissions compliance was met through precise fuel injection and VVT, achieving Euro 5 standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, potentially leading to noise or timing inaccuracies. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin NTB12‑089, is often associated with extended oil change intervals. Nissan addressed this in later production by revising the tensioner design and updating maintenance schedules.
Production years 2010–2017 meet Euro 5 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Nissan BR10DE is a 999 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for city cars (2010-2017). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with intake variable valve timing to deliver frugal fuel consumption and responsive low‑end torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and low emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.4 mm | |
| Power output | 52 kW (70 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Nissan 5W-30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 78 kg |
The three-cylinder design offers good fuel economy but can exhibit characteristic vibration at idle, mitigated by the engine mounts. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes is critical to prevent timing chain tensioner wear, as outlined in NTB12-089. Using the specified 5W-30 oil ensures optimal VVT operation and chain lubrication. The engine's simplicity makes it generally robust, though ignition coil failures are a known, easily serviceable fault. Coolant should be replaced every 5 years to protect the aluminum block and head.
Oil Specs: Requires Nissan 5W-30 specification meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Nissan Owner's Manual OM-BR10).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2010-2017) for UK/EU markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Nissan PT-2015).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs SM-10DE, NTB12-089
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. BR10-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Nissan BR10DE was used exclusively in the Nissan Pixo platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine was a badge-engineered version of the Suzuki K10B, sharing its core architecture but with Nissan-specific ECU calibration and ancillary components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Nissan TIS SM-10DE). The 8th VIN digit for the Pixo is 'B', indicating the BR-series engine family. Visually, it can be identified by its compact three-cylinder layout and Nissan-branded plastic engine cover. Critical differentiation from the Suzuki K10B: While mechanically identical, the BR10DE uses a Nissan-specific ECU (part number 23710-EX00A) and engine wiring harness. Service parts for the engine block, head, and internals are generally interchangeable with the K10B, but electronic components and some gaskets are model-specific (Nissan EPC BR10-001).
The BR10DE's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Nissan TSB NTB12-089 documents this concern, while general owner feedback indicates ignition coil failures are also common. Neglecting scheduled oil changes significantly increases the risk of premature tensioner failure, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2010-2017) and owner-reported failure data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN BR10DE.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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