The Nissan TD27TI is a 2,663 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1993 and 1999. It features a cast iron block, indirect injection via a rotary distributor pump, and a fixed-geometry turbocharger, delivering robust low-end torque suited for commercial and off-road applications. Its simple, non-interference design prioritizes durability and ease of repair in demanding conditions.
Fitted primarily to the D21 Navara/Hardbody pickup and U13/U14 Bluebird models, the TD27TI was engineered for reliability and load-carrying capability rather than refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust aftertreatment, meeting Japanese and European regulations applicable to commercial vehicles of the early-to-mid 1990s.
One documented concern is premature failure of the mechanical fuel injection pump's internal components, noted in Nissan Service Bulletin E93-045. This is often attributed to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. The pump was revised in late 1995 production, incorporating improved internal seals and bearings.
Production years 1993–1999 meet Japanese 1994 Emissions Standards and EU Directive 91/542/EEC Stage I, depending on market and vehicle application (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Nissan TD27TI is a 2,663 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for pickup trucks and sedans (1993-1999). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically controlled fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm pulling power and renowned durability. Designed to meet early 1990s emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,663 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 107.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) | |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary distributor pump, indirect injection | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1994 / EU Stage I | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed-geometry turbo (IHI or Mitsubishi) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | API CD or CE (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 285 kg |
The gear-driven timing and indirect injection provide exceptional durability but require strict adherence to 5,000-7,500 km oil and filter changes to protect the injection pump. API CD/CE 15W-40 oil is critical for its high detergent levels to combat soot. Fuel quality is paramount; contaminated fuel rapidly damages the Bosch VE pump's precision internals. Pre-1996 pumps should be inspected or upgraded per Nissan SIB E93-045. The non-interference design means timing gear failure won't destroy the engine, but will leave the vehicle stranded.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD or CE specification (Nissan Service Manual SM-EC-TD27). ACEA B2/B3 is an acceptable modern equivalent.
Emissions: EU Stage I certification applies to export models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Japanese domestic models comply with 1994 Japanese Emissions Standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Nissan PT-1995).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs TB-93-12, SIB E93-045
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. TD27-7890
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Nissan TD27TI was used across Nissan's D21 and U13/U14 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the D21 for off-road use and different accessory brackets in the Bluebird-creating minor parts variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface of the block, just below the injection pump on the driver's side (Nissan SM-EC-TD27). The 8th VIN digit for D21 trucks is 'T' for diesel engines. Visually, the TD27TI is identified by its large, vertically mounted Bosch VE injection pump on the right side and a simple, non-intercooled intake pipe running to the turbo. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated TD27: TD27TI has a turbocharger mounted at the exhaust manifold and associated oil/coolant lines. Pre-1996 and post-1996 injection pumps have different internal part numbers; verify before replacement (Nissan SIB E93-045).
The TD27TI's primary reliability risk is fuel injection pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel or with neglected service. Nissan SIB E93-045 documents a high rate of pump seizures in early production units, while general fleet data indicates that strict maintenance can extend pump life beyond 300,000 km. Fuel filtration and quality make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1993-1999) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN TD27TI.
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.
