The 2.0-liter Nissan KA20DE engine (or KA20 for short) was assembled from 1999 to 2009 and is most often found under the hood of the Atlas truck, but is better known for the extensive series of Caravan minibuses. Another power unit was installed on pickup trucks of the Japanese concern.
KA family: KA20DE, KA24E, KA24DE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1999-2009 |
| Displacement, cc | 1998 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 120 |
| Torque output, Nm | 170 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 86 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.1 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Caravan 2005) — city — highway — combined |
11.0 7.1 9.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~340 000 |
| Weight, kg | 165 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Caravan E24 in 1999 – 2001, Caravan 5 (E25) in 2001 – 2007;
- Nissan Navara 2 (D22) in 1999 – 2004;
- Nissan Atlas 10 (F23).
Disadvantages of the KA20DE engine
- This gasoline engine is very reliable, and its resource exceeds 300,000 km;
- After 200,000 kilometers, it may sometimes be necessary to replace the timing chain tensioner;
- Valve clearances require periodic adjustment, about once every 100 thousand km;
- The motor sump is easily crumpled when hitting an obstacle and blocks the oil receiver;
- This unit does not like cheap oil, carefully approach the choice of lubricant.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan KA20DE
How much power does the Nissan KA20DE make?
The Nissan KA20DE develops 120 hp and 170 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan KA20DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.1 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan KA20DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan KA20DE uses a timing chain.
Is the Nissan KA20DE turbocharged?
No, the Nissan KA20DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan KA20DE need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Nissan KA20DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan KA20DE is ~340 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan KA20DE?
Nissan Caravan 2005: city 11.0, highway 7.1, combined 9.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan KA20DE installed on?
Nissan Caravan E24 in 1999 - 2001, Caravan 5 (E25) in 2001 - 2007; Nissan Navara 2 (D22) in 1999 - 2004; Nissan Atlas 10 (F23).
What are the common problems of the Nissan KA20DE?
This gasoline engine is very reliable, and its resource exceeds 300,000 km. After 200,000 kilometers, it may sometimes be necessary to replace the timing chain tensioner. All known problems.
