The 2.0-litre Nissan CD20T turbodiesel engine was built from 1991 to 2002 in Japan and fitted to the company’s very popular models such as the Primera, Serena and Avenir. There is also a CD20ET version of this unit with an electronic high pressure fuel pump and a CD20ETi with an intercooler.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-2002 |
| Displacement, cc | 1973 |
| Fuel system | vortex chamber |
| Power output, hp | 90 |
| Torque output, Nm | 174 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 88 |
| Compression ratio | 22.2 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | as option |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 10W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.5 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Primera 1997) — city — highway — combined |
8.6 5.7 6.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~230 000 |
| Weight, kg | 200 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Avenir 1 (W10) in 1993 – 1998, Avenir 2 (W11) in 1998 – 2000;
- Nissan Primera 2 (P11) in 1996 – 2002;
- Nissan Serena C23 in 1991 – 2002.
Disadvantages of the CD20T engine
- On specialized forums, they often complain about the airing of the cooling system;
- Many owners have experienced overheating, blown gaskets and cylinder head cracks;
- It is important to follow the timing belt replacement schedule, because when it breaks, the valve bends;
- The turbine regularly fails, which is expensive even in the secondary market;
- On a run of about 200 – 250 thousand km, compression in the cylinders most often already drops.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan CD20T
How much power does the Nissan CD20T make?
The Nissan CD20T develops 90 hp and 174 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan CD20T take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.5 liters. Recommended oil: 10W-30.
Does the Nissan CD20T have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan CD20T uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan CD20T turbocharged?
Yes, the Nissan CD20T is turbocharged.
How long does the Nissan CD20T last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan CD20T is ~230 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan CD20T?
Nissan Primera 1997: city 8.6, highway 5.7, combined 6.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan CD20T installed on?
Nissan Avenir 1 (W10) in 1993 - 1998, Avenir 2 (W11) in 1998 - 2000; Nissan Primera 2 (P11) in 1996 - 2002; Nissan Serena C23 in 1991 - 2002.
What are the common problems of the Nissan CD20T?
On specialized forums, they often complain about the airing of the cooling system. Many owners have experienced overheating, blown gaskets and cylinder head cracks. All known problems.
