The Nissan SR20VE engine was produced from 1997 to 2003 at a factory in Japan. It was installed on sporty versions of such models as Nissan Primera, Bluebird and Wingroad. SR20VE engine is distinguished by the presence of the NEO VVL (Variable Valve Lift and Timing) system, which allows to improve the engine characteristics and increase its performance.
Main Specifications
| Characteristics | Reference |
|---|---|
| Exact volume | 1998 cm³ |
| Power system | distributed injection |
| Power | 190 – 205 hp |
| Torque | 196 – 206 Nm |
| Cylinder block | aluminum, in-line, 4 cylinders |
| Block head | aluminum, 16 valves |
| Cylinder diameter | 86 mm |
| Piston stroke | 86 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11 |
| Gas timing system | VVVL & VVT |
| Hydrocompensators | no |
| Transmission timing | chain |
| Turbocharged | no |
| Oil volume | 3.4 liters, 5W-30 recommended |
| Environmental class | EURO 3/4 |
| Example service life | 330,000 km |
| Weight | 165 kg |
Application of the engine on Nissan vehicles
The SR20VE has been installed in various Nissan models. Here are some of them:
- Nissan Bluebird: 10th generation (U14), production 1996-2001.
- Nissan Primera: 2nd and 3rd generations (P11 and P12), production 1997-2003.
- Nissan Primera Camino: restyled versions of the second generation (P11), production 1997-2000.
- Nissan Wingroad: 2nd generation (Y11), production 1999-2001.
Features Second Generation SR20VE (20V)
The second-generation SR20VE fitted to the Nissan Primera P12 20V package has the following key features:
- Crankshaft with 8 counterweights for improved balancing.
- Pistons with higher compression ratio (11.0:1) and new rings.
- Transmission timing mechanism with morse-chain for increased reliability.
- Innovative geometry of the intake manifold channels.
- Extended camshaft cam lift (low: 10.1/228, high: 12.0/278 for intake).
- Electronic throttle linkage (~70mm).
- Platinum spark plugs and custom coils.
- Metal head gasket and exhaust manifold.
Disadvantages and Breakdowns of the Nissan SR20VE Engine
Although the SR20VE is considered a reliable and productive engine, it has several flaws and typical problems that manifest themselves under heavy use. The following are the major weaknesses of this motor.
1. Increased Oil Quality Requirements
The complex VVL (Variable Valve Lift and Timing) timing system makes the SR20VE very demanding on the quality and regularity of oil changes. If poor quality oil is used or the oil change schedule is not followed, there is a risk of the following problems:
- Oil ducts clogging: This can lead to poor lubrication and overheating of components, which accelerates wear.
- Phase controller malfunctions: If the oil quality is poor or there is a shortage of oil, the VVL system’s phase controllers may malfunction, resulting in poor engine performance and loss of power.
2. Floating RPMs at idle
One common SR20VE problem is unstable engine idle speeds. This is usually due to:
- Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) malfunctions: the MAF can become clogged, reducing the accuracy of the air quantity measurement, resulting in fuel supply interruptions and erratic operation.
- O idle speed regulator (ICE) malfunctions: If the VCF becomes dirty or fails, the engine may begin to idle erratically.
3. Oil Leaks
Over time, oil leaks can occur on the engine due to worn seals and oil seals. Major leakage areas include:
- Crankshaft oil seal: Often begins to leak due to wear, especially at high mileage.
- Oil pressure sensor: The sensor seals can begin to leak oil, resulting in leaks.
4. Timing Chain Problems
At around 200,000 to 250,000 miles, the timing chain (timing chain) may begin to stretch. This leads to:
- Chain noise and rattling: Signs of chain stretching include a characteristic metallic sound that can be heard when the engine is running.
- Deterioration of timing: Improper chain tension reduces timing accuracy, which adversely affects power and engine performance.
5. No Hydrocompensators
The SR20VE motor is not equipped with hydrocompensators, which requires periodic adjustment of valve clearances. This is inconvenient for owners, as adjustment must be done manually and quite regularly at high mileage. There is an increased risk if this requirement is ignored:
- Power loss: If the clearances are improperly adjusted, the opening and closing of the valves is impaired, reducing engine power.
- Elevated component wear: Incorrect clearances put additional stress on camshafts and valves, which accelerates their wear.
6. Second Generation Pistons Vulnerability to Detonation
The second-generation SR20VE utilizes pistons with a reduced upper heat belt to meet environmental regulations. However, this change resulted in a decrease in their thermal resistance. Because of this:
- An increased risk of piston failure from detonation: Low-quality fuel or engine overheating results in the possibility of piston damage, which can lead to major repairs.
- An increased likelihood of piston cracking: This can lead to rapid compression deterioration and increased oil consumption.
7. Increased Wear on Inlet and Exhaust Valves
Due to the use of stiff single valve springs and high engine speeds, the SR20VE is prone to increased valve wear. This can manifest itself in:
- Loss of compression: Gradual deterioration of cylinder tightness due to valve wear reduces compression, which affects power.
- Frequent adjustment and replacement of springs: In sporty operating conditions, it is necessary to regularly check the condition of the valve springs and adjust the clearances.