The Nissan CR14DE is a 1,386 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2013. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves with electronic fuel injection. This compact engine was designed for efficiency and smooth operation in Nissan's global supermini and city car platforms.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Micra (K12/K13) and Note (E11), the CR14DE was engineered for responsive urban driving and fuel economy. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its electronic fuel injection system and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards for most markets.
One documented service concern involves the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, which can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling or reduced performance. This issue is referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB09-102. Later CR-series engines saw minor ECU and VVT calibration updates for improved emissions and drivability.
Production years 2004–2013 meet applicable Euro 4 emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (Nissan Technical Service Bulletins, EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
The Nissan CR14DE is a 1,386 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (2004-2013). It combines electronic fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver smooth, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it prioritizes low-end torque and urban drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,386 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 72.6 mm | |
| Power output | 65–72 kW (88–98 PS) | |
| Torque | 128–134 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | API SL/SM, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The DOHC design offers good high-RPM efficiency but requires clean oil for the VVT system. The timing chain is designed for life but should be inspected if a rattle develops. Using the specified API SL/SM oil is essential for protecting the VVT solenoid from sludge buildup. The EFI system is robust but benefits from clean fuel; clogged filters can strain the fuel pump. The VVT solenoid (per NTB09-102) is a known service item on higher-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL/SM specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern API SN/SP equivalents are generally acceptable.
Emissions: Compliance based on Euro 4 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007). Specifics may vary by national implementation.
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-CR14DE, Technical Bulletins NTB09-102
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for CR14DE
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Nissan Engineering Specification Documents CR14DE-01
The Nissan CR14DE was used across Nissan's K12/E11 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU tuning for different model weights and was succeeded by the HR14DE. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Nissan SM-CR14DE). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('D' for CR14DE in many markets). Visually, it features twin cam covers (DOHC) and a variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid on the front of the cylinder head, differentiating it from non-VVT engines. Critical differentiation from HR14DE: CR14DE has a chain-driven water pump integrated with the timing system; HR14DE uses a belt-driven external pump. Service parts for the VVT system and timing chain are specific to the CR14DE.
The CR14DE's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure on high-mileage examples, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-quality oil. Nissan service data indicates solenoid clogging is a common cause of rough idle after 100,000 km, while timing chain rattle can occur if maintenance is neglected. Extended service intervals make adherence to OEM oil specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2004-2013) and internal service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN CR14DE.
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