The Nissan YD22DDT is a 2,184 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2007. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). Common rail direct injection delivers outputs ranging from 100 kW (136 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS), with peak torque figures of 320-340 Nm for responsive low-end performance.
Fitted primarily to the R51 Pathfinder and Navara D22 models, the YD22DDT was engineered for robust towing capacity and off-road durability. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), targeting Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is injector seal failure leading to combustion gas ingress into the fuel rail, potentially causing hard starting or misfires. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB05-089, is often linked to thermal cycling stress on the copper sealing washers. Nissan later revised the injector design and sealing procedure.

Production years 2001–2007 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Nissan YD22DDT is a 2,184 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for SUVs and pickups (2001-2007). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and reliable performance under load. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes durability for demanding applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,184 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 100–110 kW (136–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–340 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | ACEA B4 (SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 225 kg |
The VGT turbo provides ample torque for towing but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to maintain turbo and injector health. ACEA B4 specification oil is critical to handle soot and protect against injector seal failure. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup. The Denso fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent injector nozzle coking. Injector seal replacement per NTB05-089 is a common preventative measure on high-mileage engines. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B4 specification (Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB05-089). Compatible with SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 viscosities.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model range (Nissan Group PT-2005).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs SM-YD22-01, NTB05-089
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ACEA European Oil Sequences: B4 Specification
The Nissan YD22DDT was used across Nissan's R51/D22 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Pathfinder for off-road use-and no significant 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 of the cylinder block, near the timing chain cover (Nissan Service Manual SM-YD22-01). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine type ('D' for YD series). Visually, the engine features a black plastic valve cover with "DCi" branding and a prominent intercooler pipe running to the driver's side of the engine bay. Critical differentiation from later YD25DDT: YD22DDT has a smaller displacement (2.2L vs 2.5L) and lower power output. Service parts are generally compatible across all YD22DDT applications from 2001-2007.
The YD22DDT's primary reliability risk is injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or frequently heat-cycled engines. Nissan service data indicates this is a prevalent cause for fuel system diagnostics, while general diesel maintenance records highlight EGR clogging as a common service item. Regular oil changes and using correct fuel make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2001-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN YD22DDT.
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