The Nissan E15S is a 1,487 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1986. It features a SOHC, 8‑valve design with a single-barrel carburettor, prioritising simplicity and low-cost ownership. Peak output is rated at 52 kW (71 PS) and 113 Nm, making it suitable for compact economy cars where reliability and fuel efficiency were paramount.
Fitted primarily to the N12 Pulsar and B11 Sunny, the E15S was engineered for dependable, economical urban transport. Its driving character is defined by modest power delivery and predictable throttle response, ideal for stop-start traffic. Emissions compliance relied on basic carburettor calibration and exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Japanese 1978 emissions standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slap and eventual failure if neglected. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB84-033, is often attributed to extended oil change intervals or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. Production ended in 1986 as Nissan transitioned to more advanced multi-point fuel injection designs.
Production years 1982–1986 meet Japanese 1978 emissions standards for relevant markets (MLIT Japan Type Approval #JIS-D-1001).
The Nissan E15S is a 1,487 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact economy cars (1982-1986). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetted fuel delivery to deliver predictable performance and exceptional fuel economy. Designed to meet Japanese 1978 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical reliability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,487 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 52 kW (71 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Hitachi DCG306) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1978 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain | |
| Oil type | API SF or equivalent (SAE 10W‑30/10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The modest compression ratio allows for reliable running on standard unleaded fuel but demands strict adherence to valve clearance checks at 40,000 km intervals. API SF specification oil is critical for protecting the timing chain and hydraulic lifters. Pre-heating via the automatic choke is essential for smooth cold starts. The timing chain is generally robust but the tensioner is prone to wear; inspection is recommended at major service intervals (80,000 km). Fuel quality meeting local standards is recommended to prevent carburettor jet clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF (or equivalent) specification (Nissan SM-E15). Viscosity varies by climate (10W-30 for moderate, 10W-40 for hot).
Emissions: Japanese 1978 certification applies to all 1982-1986 models (MLIT Type Approval #JIS-D-1001). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Nissan PT-1985).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs SM-E15, NTB84-033
Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)
MLIT Type Approval Database (JIS-D-1001)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Engine Power Certification
The Nissan E15S was used across Nissan's N12/B11 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the B11 sedan for NVH reduction-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined boss on the front of the cylinder block, adjacent to the oil filter (Nissan SM-E15). The 8th VIN digit for E15S-equipped vehicles is typically 'E'. Visual identification: SOHC 8-valve head with a single Hitachi DCG306 carburettor mounted on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from later E16 engines: E15S has a 1.5L displacement (E16 is 1.6L) and a different carburettor model. Service parts are generally compatible across all model years and applications.
The E15S's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence following extended oil change intervals. Nissan internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of timing-related noise for this model, while its simple mechanical design otherwise proved very durable. Neglecting oil maintenance makes adherence to the OEM service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1982-1986) and internal service reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN E15S.
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