🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Infiniti

Model:

G20

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

JDM: Nissan Pulsar (N15 series); USDM: P10 series

Engine Code:

SR20DE

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Infiniti G20 positioned itself as a premium compact sedan, offering a blend of sporty performance, refined comfort, and advanced features compared to mainstream competitors in its class.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed primarily with vehicles like the Acura Integra, BMW 3 Series (entry-level trims), and other upscale compact sedans, differentiating itself with its sophisticated styling, comfortable interior, and the proven reliability of its Nissan underpinnings.

Key Features:

SR20DE 2.0L engine, refined interior materials, available premium audio, often marketed for its European-inspired driving dynamics and handling.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Troubleshooting, Maintenance

Page Count:

Digital (Full Year Access)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software (Web Browser Accessible)

Source:

RepairSurge (Automotive Software Company)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine management (ECU), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (front and rear, ABS), Power steering, Electrical system (wiring diagrams, fuses, relays), Lighting, Instrumentation, Body electrical, HVAC system, Climate control, Body panels, Interior trim, Exterior trim, Chassis components

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil change, filter replacement, spark plugs, belts, hoses), Engine diagnostics and repair, Cylinder head and block repair, Piston and connecting rod service, Crankshaft and camshaft service, Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, Ignition timing and component service, Emissions control system service, Cooling system service, Lubrication system maintenance, Clutch inspection and replacement, Manual transmission overhaul and repair, Automatic transmission diagnosis and service, Driveshaft and CV joint repair, Wheel bearing replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, ball joints), Steering component diagnosis and repair, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Brake caliper service, ABS system troubleshooting, Power steering system service, Starter and alternator service, Battery maintenance, Lighting system repair, Fuse and relay diagnosis, HVAC system troubleshooting and repair, Air conditioning system service, Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, Body panel repair and replacement, Diagnostic procedures, Wiring harness repair, Torque specifications for all fasteners

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhaul, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical troubleshooting)

Diagnostics Procedures:

Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, using OBDI (On-Board Diagnostics I) error codes and troubleshooting flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Online Software (RepairSurge)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (requires internet connection and web browser)

Licensing:

Officially Licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (SR20DE)

Horsepower:

140 hp @ 6400 rpm (US Market)

Torque:

130 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (US Market)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane recommended)

Engine Placement:

Front, Transverse

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Optional:

4-Speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Model:

RE4F03A

Manual Transmission Model:

FS5W71C

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Nissan Matic D (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

176.0 inches (4470 mm)

Width:

67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Height:

54.3 inches (1379 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Front Track:

58.1 inches (1475 mm)

Rear Track:

57.7 inches (1465 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800-2950 lbs (1270-1340 kg) depending on trim and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3700 lbs (1680 kg)

Seating Capacity:

5 Passengers

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 13.5 cu. ft. (Trunk)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

Not specifically rated for this model year, but typical for its era.

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

Not specifically rated for this model year, but typical for its era.

Anti Lock Braking System:

Optional on some trims

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard, but provisions may exist

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker count typically 4 or 6.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; primarily basic features like power steering and anti-lock brakes (optional).

Connectivity Features:

None (pre-internet era vehicle).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (NGK Platinum recommended)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (critical due to interference engine design)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-1, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.1 US quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Nissan Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Nissan Genuine PSF or Dexron II/III ATF

Known Issues:

Timing belt failure due to age/neglect, Idle Air Control (IAC) valve issues causing rough idle, CV joint wear, Suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), Door lock actuator failure, Catalytic converter inefficiency, Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Nissan/Infiniti: 15208-H0100 / Fram: PH3593A / Wix: 51515

Air Filter Part Number:

Nissan/Infiniti: 16546-V0100 / Fram: CA3600 / Wix: 42550

Spark Plug Part Number:

NGK PFR6A-11 (Platinum)

Timing Belt Kit Part Number:

Gates: TCK135 (includes belt, tensioner, idler pulley)

Wheel Lug Nut Torque:

76 lb-ft (103 Nm)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Infiniti, Nissan's luxury division, was established in 1989, aiming to compete with established luxury brands by offering high-quality vehicles with refined driving dynamics and customer service.

Model Evolution:

The G20, based on the Nissan Pulsar/Sentra platform, represented Infiniti's entry into the compact luxury sedan segment. The 1996 model year marked the second generation (P10) of the G20, which debuted in the US for the 1991 model year.

Production Location:

Japan (under Nissan marque as Pulsar)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not specifically awarded in 1996, the G20 was generally praised for its handling and value proposition within the entry-luxury segment. It shared platform DNA with the successful Nissan Sentra/Pulsar.