The Nissan GA16DE is a 1,597 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1990 and 2000. It features an aluminium cylinder head, cast iron block, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves with electronic fuel injection. This engine was designed for responsive performance and fuel efficiency in Nissan's compact global platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Sunny (N14), Sentra (B14), and Pulsar (N15), the GA16DE was engineered for a balance of spirited acceleration and everyday economy. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 and Japanese 1990 emissions standards for respective markets.
One documented service concern involves the ignition system, specifically premature failure of the ignition coils, as noted in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB98-087. This can lead to misfires under load or in humid conditions. In 1995, Nissan revised the coil design and ECU mapping for improved reliability in later GA16DE applications.
Production years 1990–1995 meet Japanese 1990 Emissions Standards; 1996–2000 models meet Euro 2 depending on market (Nissan Technical Service Bulletins, MLIT Japan, EU Directive 94/12/EC).
The Nissan GA16DE is a 1,597 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1990-2000). It combines electronic fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver responsive, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Japanese 1990 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with highway refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,597 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 77–85 kW (105–115 PS) | |
| Torque | 138–148 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1990 / Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | API SH/SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The DOHC design offers good mid-range responsiveness but requires clean oil for the hydraulic lifters. The timing chain is designed for life but should be inspected if a rattle develops. Using the specified API SH/SJ oil is essential for protecting the valve train. The EFI system is robust but benefits from clean fuel; clogged filters can strain the fuel pump. The ignition coils (per NTB98-087) are a known service item, particularly in humid climates or on high-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SJ specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern API SN/SP equivalents are generally acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Compliance based on Japanese 1990 standards (MLIT) and Euro 2 (EU Directive 94/12/EC). Specifics vary by export market.
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-GA16DE, Technical Bulletins NTB98-087
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for GA16DE
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Regulations Archive
EU Directive 94/12/EC
The Nissan GA16DE was used across Nissan's N14/B14 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU tuning for different model weights and was succeeded by the QG18DE. 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 crankshaft pulley (Nissan SM-GA16DE). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('D' for GA16DE in many markets). Visually, it features twin cam covers (DOHC) and a distributorless ignition system with coil packs mounted on the valve cover, differentiating it from the SOHC GA16i. Critical differentiation from GA16i: GA16DE has EFI with an intake plenum and 16 valves; GA16i uses carburetors or throttle-body injection with 8 valves. Service parts for ignition and fuel injection are specific to the GA16DE.
The GA16DE's primary reliability risk is ignition coil failure on high-mileage examples, with elevated incidence in humid climates. Nissan service data indicates coil pack failure is a common cause of misfires after 150,000 km, while timing chain rattle 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 (1990-2000) and internal service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN GA16DE.
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