The Nissan SR20DI is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves with direct fuel injection. This engine was designed to offer enhanced fuel efficiency and torque compared to its port-injected SR20DE counterpart.
Fitted exclusively to the Nissan Primera (P11) in European and Japanese markets, the SR20DI was engineered for refined, economical cruising with a focus on low-to-mid range responsiveness. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through its direct injection system and catalytic converter, meeting Japanese 1998 and Euro 3 emissions standards for respective markets.
One documented service concern involves carbon buildup on the intake valves and potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, as noted in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB99-045. The direct injection system, while efficient, lacked the fuel-washing effect on valves, leading to maintenance requirements not present in port-injected engines.
Production years 1997–2002 meet Japanese 1998 Emissions Standards and Euro 3 for applicable markets (Nissan Technical Service Bulletins, MLIT Japan, EU Directive 98/69/EC).
The Nissan SR20DI is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1997-2002). It combines direct fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver improved fuel economy and low-end torque. Designed to meet Japanese 1998 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it represents an early adoption of gasoline direct injection technology.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–107 kW (140–145 PS) | |
| Torque | 196–200 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Fuel Injection (NEC Electronics EGI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1998 / Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | API SJ, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The direct injection design provides improved fuel economy and torque but requires periodic cleaning of intake valves to prevent carbon buildup, a known characteristic documented in NTB99-045. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; contaminated fuel can lead to premature failure. Using the specified API SJ oil is essential for engine protection. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected if a rattle develops. This engine was a technological stepping stone, and parts support may be more limited than for the more common SR20DE.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ specification oil (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern API SN/SP equivalents are generally acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Compliance based on Japanese 1998 standards (MLIT) and Euro 3 (EU Directive 98/69/EC). Specifics vary by export market.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across Primera applications (Nissan Global Product Data).
Nissan Technical Information System: Service Manuals SM-SR20DI, Technical Bulletins NTB99-045
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for SR20DI
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Regulations Archive
EU Directive 98/69/EC
The Nissan SR20DI was used exclusively in Nissan's P11 platform with transverse mounting. This engine was a niche offering and received no significant platform-specific adaptations beyond its unique ECU calibration. It was not carried over to the next-generation Primera. All specifications 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-SR20DI). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('I' for SR20DI in many markets). Visually, it features twin cam covers (DOHC) and a high-pressure fuel pump mounted on the rear of the cylinder head, differentiating it from the port-injected SR20DE. Critical differentiation from SR20DE: SR20DI has direct injection with fuel rails and injectors mounted directly in the cylinder head; SR20DE has a conventional intake manifold with port injectors. Service parts for the fuel injection system are specific to the SR20DI.
The SR20DI's primary reliability consideration is long-term carbon buildup on intake valves, inherent to its direct injection design. Nissan service data indicates this is a normal characteristic requiring periodic cleaning, while high-pressure fuel pump failure can occur if maintenance is neglected or poor-quality fuel is used. Extended service intervals make adherence to OEM specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1997-2002) and internal service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN SR20DI.
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