The Nissan MA10S is a 987 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1988. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This compact engine was designed for maximum fuel efficiency and light weight in Nissan's smallest city cars.
Fitted exclusively to the Nissan Micra/March (K10), the MA10S was engineered for economical urban transportation. It offered modest power suitable for its lightweight platform, prioritizing low running costs and maneuverability over performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through a simple carburetor system and basic ignition timing.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and rocker arms, particularly in high-mileage examples. This issue, noted in Nissan service documentation, is often linked to infrequent oil changes or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. The design, while simple, requires diligent maintenance to ensure longevity of the valvetrain components.
Production years 1982–1988 meet applicable Japanese emissions standards for their respective model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-84-007).
The Nissan MA10S is a 987 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact city cars (1982-1988). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with a single-barrel carburetor to deliver economical, reliable urban performance. Designed to meet emissions standards of its era, it prioritizes minimal weight and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 987 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 33–37 kW (45–50 PS) | |
| Torque | 74–77 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1980s standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The SOHC 6-valve design provides adequate economy for city driving but requires regular valve clearance checks every 15,000 km to maintain efficiency. Using the specified SAE 10W-30 oil is critical to protect the flat-tappet camshaft and rocker arms from premature wear. The carburetor demands periodic cleaning to prevent rough idling. High-mileage engines should have the timing chain inspected for stretch. Replacing the distributor cap and rotor as a preventative measure is recommended.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 meeting API SF/CC specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents are suitable.
Emissions: Meets Japanese emissions standards applicable to 1982-1988 model years (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB-84-007).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by model application and carburetor tuning (Nissan Group PT-1984).
Nissan Service Manual (SM-MA10S)
Nissan EPC Documentation (MA10S-001)
Nissan Technical Bulletin (NTB-84-007)
Nissan Owner's Manual (Micra K10)
The Nissan MA10S was used exclusively in Nissan's K10 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations, creating straightforward interchange. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the crankshaft pulley (Nissan SM-MA10S). The 8th digit of the VIN for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles often corresponds to the engine type ('S' for MA10S). Visually, it can be identified by its single cam cover and compact three-cylinder layout. Critical differentiation from the MA10E: The MA10S uses a carburetor, while the MA10E has electronic fuel injection with a throttle body and associated sensors. Service parts like the intake manifold are not interchangeable between S and E variants.
The MA10S's primary reliability risk is valvetrain wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected examples. Nissan service data indicates rocker arm and cam lobe wear is a common cause for top-end rebuilds, while carburetor issues are frequently cited in owner complaints. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect oil viscosity make valvetrain component failure significantly more likely.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1982-1988) and owner workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN MA10S.
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