The Nissan LD23 is a 2,289 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1983 and 1993. It features a cast iron block and head, SOHC 8‑valve architecture, and indirect injection via a Bosch mechanical injection pump. This rugged engine was designed for durability and torque in light commercial and passenger vehicles, delivering 51–55 kW (69–75 PS) with a focus on low-end pulling power and mechanical simplicity.
Fitted primarily to the D21 Navara/Hardbody pickup, Vanette C22, and early Avenir W10, the LD23 was engineered for reliable, economical service in demanding conditions. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its mechanical injection system and combustion chamber design, meeting prevailing national standards for its era.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the cylinder head, particularly around the pre-combustion chambers, in high‑mileage or overheated examples. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB87‑033, can lead to coolant leaks into the combustion chamber or loss of compression. Nissan addressed this in later LD engine variants by revising the head casting and material specification.
Production years 1983–1993 meet applicable national emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Nissan LD23 is a 2,289 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for light commercial and passenger vehicles (1983-1993). It combines indirect injection with a robust SOHC design to deliver smooth, torquey performance ideal for load-carrying. Designed to meet prevailing emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes durability and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,289 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 98.0 mm | |
| Power output | 51–55 kW (69–75 PS) | |
| Torque | 142–147 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection, Bosch mechanical injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Prevailing national standards (e.g., Japan 1985) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear‑driven | |
| Oil type | API CC/CD, SAE 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The SOHC, gear-driven design provides exceptional mechanical durability ideal for high-mileage use but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 40,000 km. Using the specified API CC/CD oil is critical to protect the high-compression diesel components. The timing gears are extremely robust and rarely fail. The indirect injection system is simple and tolerant of lower fuel quality but is less efficient than modern direct injection. Cylinder head wear (NTB87-033) is the primary reliability concern on high-mileage or overheated engines.
Oil Specs: Requires API CC/CD specification oil (Nissan Service Manual SM-LD23). Modern API CK-4 oils are acceptable substitutes.
Emissions: Meets applicable national emissions standards for model year and market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Not certified for Euro standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and market (Nissan TIS Doc. LD23-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LD23-001, LD23-005, LD23-010
Nissan Service Manual: SM-LD23
Nissan Technical Bulletin: NTB87-033
The Nissan LD23 was used across Nissan's D21 and C22 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and accessory brackets-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 flat machined surface on the left side of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (Nissan TIS LD23-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('3' for LD23 in many markets). Visually, it can be identified by its single overhead cam cover, large cast iron construction, and the prominent Bosch mechanical injection pump mounted on the side of the engine. Critical differentiation from LD28: LD23 has a 2.3L displacement and smaller physical size. Engine mounts and some ancillaries differ between D21 and C22 applications.
The LD23's primary reliability risk is cylinder head failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, pre-1988 engines or those subjected to overheating. Nissan service data indicated this was a notable failure point requiring attention after 200,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite coolant loss or white exhaust smoke stemming from this component. Infrequent coolant changes and overheating events accelerate failure, making adherence to cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1983-1993) and owner-reported failure data (compiled 2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN LD23.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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