The Nissan CD17 is a 1,681 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1983 and 1986. It features a SOHC, 8‑valve design with indirect injection, prioritising mechanical simplicity and fuel economy. Output is modest at approximately 44 kW (60 PS) and 103 Nm, suitable for light commercial and passenger vehicle applications.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Sunny (B11) and Nissan Vanette (C22), the CD17 was engineered for dependable, low‑cost urban and light‑duty use. Emissions control was basic for its era, relying on its simple combustion design to meet prevailing standards, preceding widespread adoption of catalytic converters for diesels.
A documented service consideration involves the mechanical fuel injection pump, which requires precise calibration. Adjustment procedures and wear limits are detailed in Nissan Service Manual Section EM‑CD17. No major generational updates occurred before the engine was superseded by more advanced designs.
Production years 1983–1986 predate formal Euro standards; compliance based on national regulations of the era (VCA UK Type Approval records for period vehicles).
The Nissan CD17 is a 1,681 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engineered for compact cars and light vans (1983-1986). It combines indirect injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver modest, reliable power for economical operation. Designed for pre‑Euro regulatory environments, it prioritises mechanical durability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,681 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 103 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Mechanical indirect injection (C.A.V. or Nissan pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API CC or CD (SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The CD17 offers dependable, low-stress performance ideal for city driving and light loads but lacks modern power. Regular oil changes (every 5,000-7,500 km) with API CC/CD spec oil are crucial for longevity. The mechanical injection pump requires specialist tools for calibration if performance degrades; incorrect adjustment can cause poor running or excessive smoke. Pre-heating glow plugs for 10-15 seconds in cold weather is essential for reliable starting. Engine noise and vibration are characteristic of its era and design.
Oil Specs: Requires API CC or CD specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA B4 can be a suitable substitute.
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards; compliance based on 1980s UK national vehicle regulations (VCA Historical Records).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards (Nissan Technical Data Sheet TDS-CD17/83). Output is consistent across applications.
Nissan Workshop Manual: Section EM-CD17
Nissan Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. CD17-001
Nissan Technical Data Sheet: TDS-CD17/83
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Historical Type Approval Database
The Nissan CD17 was used across Nissan's B11 and C22 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and ancillary bracketry for the Vanette-but no major revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically near the injection pump or on the exhaust side (Nissan Workshop Manual EM-CD17). The engine code will read "CD17". Visually, it is identifiable by its SOHC 8-valve cylinder head, mechanical diesel injection pump (often C.A.V. or Nissan-branded), and lack of a turbocharger. Differentiate from the larger CD20 by displacement (1.7L vs 2.0L) and specific engine mount configurations.
The CD17's primary reliability consideration is wear in the mechanical fuel injection system, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Nissan workshop data indicates pump recalibration or rebuild is a common service requirement, while UK DVSA MOT records for surviving vehicles often cite smoke opacity failures linked to pump wear or injector issues. Adherence to maintenance schedules is critical for sustained operation.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1983-1986) and UK DVSA failure statistics (for applicable vintage vehicles). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN CD17.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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NISSAN Official Site
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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
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