The Nissan CA18D is a 1,809 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1991. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, SOHC 8‑valve architecture, and electronic fuel injection (EFI). This engine was designed for durability and smooth operation in Nissan's compact and mid‑size sedans of the era.
Fitted primarily to the S12 200SX, A10 Bluebird, and early U11 Bluebird models, the CA18D was engineered for reliable, economical daily transportation with a focus on low‑end torque and refinement. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its EFI system and catalytic converter, meeting prevailing standards for its markets.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, particularly in high‑mileage examples. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB89‑089, can lead to ignition timing drift or complete failure. Nissan addressed this in later CA engine variants by revising the gear material and lubrication path.
Production years 1985–1991 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Nissan CA18D is a 1,809 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans (1985-1991). It combines electronic fuel injection with a robust SOHC design to deliver smooth, reliable performance. Designed to meet prevailing emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes durability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,809 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 72–77 kW (97–104 PS) | |
| Torque | 147–152 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Prevailing national standards (e.g., Japan 1986) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The SOHC design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for commuting but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 60,000 km. Using the specified API SF/SG oil is critical to protect the flat-tappet camshaft and distributor drive gear. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for slack after 150,000 km. The EFI system demands clean fuel; clogged injectors are a common cause of rough idle. Distributor gear wear (NTB89-089) is the primary reliability concern on high-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG specification oil (Nissan Service Manual SM-CA18). Modern API SN/SP oils with ZDDP are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Meets applicable national emissions standards for model year and market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Not certified for Euro standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and market (Nissan TIS Doc. CA18-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs CA18-001, CA18-005, CA18-010
Nissan Service Manual: SM-CA18
Nissan Technical Bulletin: NTB89-089
The Nissan CA18D was used across Nissan's S12 and U11 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and accessory brackets-and no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head and to the right of the water pump (Nissan TIS CA18-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('D' for CA18D in many markets). Visually, it can be identified by its single overhead cam cover and distributor mounted at the rear of the head. Critical differentiation from CA18DE: CA18D has a distributor and SOHC 8-valve head, while CA18DE uses coil packs and a DOHC 16-valve head. Engine mounts and some ancillaries differ between S12 and U11 applications.
The CA18D's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, pre-1989 engines. Nissan service data indicated this was a notable failure point requiring attention after 150,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite ignition-related drivability issues stemming from this component. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil specifications accelerate wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1985-1991) and owner-reported failure data (compiled 2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN CA18D.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with NISSAN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialNISSAN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
