The Nissan CA20E is a 1,974 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1991. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and electronic fuel injection. This engine was designed for durability and smooth operation in Nissan's compact and mid-size vehicles of the era.
Fitted to models such as the Auster/Stanza (T12), Bluebird (U11), and Prairie (M10), the CA20E was engineered for reliable, economical transportation with an emphasis on refinement over outright power. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its electronic fuel injection system and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting the applicable Japanese and international standards of the time.
One documented service concern involves the ignition system, specifically premature failure of the ignition coil or distributor components, as noted in Nissan service documentation for high-mileage examples. This can lead to misfires or starting difficulties. Later CA-series engines saw updates to ignition and fuel management systems for improved reliability.
Nissan
Production years 1983–1991 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (Nissan Technical Service Bulletins, Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).
The Nissan CA20E is a 1,974 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size sedans and MPVs (1983-1991). It combines electronic fuel injection with a robust SOHC valvetrain to deliver smooth, reliable performance. Designed to meet the emissions regulations of its era, it prioritizes durability and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,974 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88–97 kW (118–130 PS) | |
| Torque | 167–172 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1983 Emissions Standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The SOHC design provides smooth, low-maintenance operation but lacks the high-RPM power of DOHC engines. Regular replacement of the timing chain (recommended at 100,000 km) is critical to prevent slippage, which can cause valve damage in this interference engine. Using the specified API SF/SG oil is essential for protecting the hydraulic valve lifters. The EFI system requires clean fuel filters; clogged filters can lead to poor running or ignition coil stress. Distributor caps and rotors should be inspected frequently on high-mileage examples.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents (API SN) are generally acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Compliance based on Japanese 1983 standards (MLIT Japan). Specifics vary by export market regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and market (Nissan Global Product Data).
Nissan Technical Information System: Service Manuals SM-CA20E, Technical Bulletins TB-85-001
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for CA20E
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Regulations Archive
Nissan Engineering Specification Documents CA20E-01
The Nissan CA20E was used across Nissan's T12/U11 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU tuning for the Prairie MPV-and was succeeded by the CA20DE with DOHC. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the distributor (Nissan SM-CA20E). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('E' for CA20E in many markets). Visually, it features a single cam cover and a distributor-based ignition system, differentiating it from the later CA20DE (twin cam covers, distributorless). Critical differentiation from CA20S: CA20E has EFI with an intake plenum and injectors; CA20S uses carburetors. Service parts for ignition and fuel injection are specific to the CA20E and not interchangeable with carbureted variants.
The CA20E's primary reliability risk is ignition system failure on high-mileage examples, with elevated incidence in humid climates. Nissan service data indicates distributor component wear is a common cause of misfires after 150,000 km, while timing chain stretch can occur if maintenance is neglected. Extended service intervals and poor-quality fuel make adherence to OEM specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1983-1991) and internal service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN CA20E.
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.
