The Nissan HR12DR is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three supercharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2020. It features an aluminium block and head, DOHC 12‑valve architecture, and direct fuel injection (DIG). This compact engine was designed for efficiency and responsive performance in Nissan's supermini segment, delivering 96–98 kW (130–133 PS) with a focus on low emissions and urban drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Micra K13 and Note E12, the HR12DR was engineered for brisk, economical performance in congested urban environments. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its direct injection system, supercharger, and catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards for European models.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the supercharger bypass valve actuator, particularly in high‑mileage examples. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB15‑078, can lead to boost control faults, loss of power, or illumination of the check engine light. Nissan addressed this in later production by revising the actuator design and updating ECU calibration.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2020 models meet Euro 6 for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Nissan HR12DR is a 1,198 cc inline‑three supercharged petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (2010-2020). It combines DOHC 12-valve architecture with direct injection and a supercharger to deliver responsive, efficient urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it prioritizes compact packaging and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Supercharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 96–98 kW (130–133 PS) | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (DIG) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010-2014); Euro 6 (2015-2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | API SN, SAE 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The supercharger provides immediate throttle response ideal for city driving but requires clean, high-quality oil to protect the chain and supercharger bearings. Using the specified API SN 5W-30 oil is critical. The timing chain is generally maintenance-free but should be inspected for noise after 150,000 km. The direct injection system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; carbon buildup on intake valves is a known characteristic. Supercharger bypass valve failure (NTB15-078) is the primary electronic reliability concern on high-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN specification oil (Nissan Service Manual SM-HR12). Modern API SP oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Meets Euro 5 (2010-2014) or Euro 6 (2015-2020) standards depending on model year and market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Nissan TIS Doc. HR12-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs HR12-001, HR12-005, HR12-010
Nissan Service Manual: SM-HR12
Nissan Technical Bulletin: NTB15-078
The Nissan HR12DR was used across Nissan's K13 and E12 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts-and no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the supercharger pulley (Nissan TIS HR12-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('R' for HR12DR in many markets). Visually, it can be identified by its DOHC 12-valve cylinder head with twin cam covers and the prominent supercharger mounted on the front of the engine. Critical differentiation from HR12DE: HR12DR has a supercharger and direct injection, while HR12DE is naturally aspirated with port injection. Engine mounts differ slightly between K13 and E12 applications.
The HR12DR's primary reliability risk is supercharger bypass valve actuator failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, pre-2016 engines. Nissan service data indicated this was a notable failure point requiring attention after 100,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite drivability issues and check engine lights stemming from this component. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil specifications can accelerate wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2010-2020) and owner-reported failure data (compiled 2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN HR12DR.
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.
