This category holds the Nissan outboard motors we have for sale, all small portable four-strokes from 2.5 HP to 20 HP. Prices are on each listing. These are budget-friendly motors for tenders, dinghies and small fishing boats, and they are cheaper than most current-production motors of the same size.

A bit of background helps here. Nissan Marine outboards were built by Tohatsu in Japan, on the same lines as Tohatsu’s own motors. Nissan no longer markets outboards under its own name in most countries, so the units here are from earlier production years. Check the model year on each listing before you order. The upside is that because they share so much with Tohatsu, parts like impellers, plugs and filters are still easy to find.

Nissan outboard motors in stock, with quick specs

NSF in the code means a Nissan four-stroke. The letters and numbers after the horsepower mark the version, such as electric start or a different shaft length. Each listing spells out what you are getting, and if anything is unclear we will confirm it before you pay.

Choosing between Nissan outboard motors

First check your boat’s capacity plate for the maximum horsepower. For an inflatable or a small tender, the 3.5 HP and 4 HP motors are light enough to carry down the dock in one hand.

For a 10 to 12 foot boat, the 6 HP Nissan is the most popular choice. We have more of those than any other size. Several versions have a connector for an external fuel tank, which matters if you plan to run for more than an hour or so.

For small aluminum boats, skiffs and as a trolling kicker on a bigger boat, look at the 8 HP and 9.8 HP twin-cylinder motors. They are smoother than the singles and noticeably quieter. The 20 HP motors suit jon boats and small RIBs.

Why buy Nissan outboard motors today

Price is the main reason. These Nissan outboard motors cost less than a current-model motor of the same power, and mechanically they are close cousins of Tohatsu motors that are still in production. If you want factory spec sheets for the equivalent Tohatsu models, they are on the official Tohatsu Marine website.

They are also very simple. Carbureted single and twin-cylinder four-strokes are easy to work on, which is a real advantage if you boat somewhere far from a dealer.

What to check before you order

Look at the model year and shaft length on the listing. Make sure your transom height matches the shaft. If you are not sure, measure from the top of the transom to the bottom of the hull and send us the number. Ask us about warranty coverage on a specific unit before you buy, since it depends on the motor and where it will be used.

How ordering works

The price on the listing is the price of the motor. When you order, we confirm stock and the exact model, then quote shipping. We ship worldwide by courier. Duties and taxes depend on your country, and we show you the total before you pay.

Looking after Nissan outboard motors

Small four-strokes like these only need a bit of regular care.

• Flush with fresh water after saltwater use. A flush muff or a bucket works fine on small Nissan outboard motors.
• Change the engine oil and lower unit gear oil every season.
• Replace the water pump impeller every two to three years.
• Run the carburetor dry or use fuel stabilizer if the motor will sit for a few weeks.

Stale fuel is the number one reason small motors will not start. Keep the fuel fresh and Nissan outboard motors will start reliably year after year.

A cheap backup motor

Plenty of owners buy a small Nissan as a spare for a bigger boat. A 6 HP on a transom bracket will get you home if the main motor quits, and at these prices it is cheap insurance.

Common questions

Can I still get parts for Nissan outboard motors?

Yes. Most service parts are shared with the matching Tohatsu model, and those are widely stocked.

Are these two-stroke or four-stroke?

All the NSF models here are four-strokes. Use regular unleaded fuel. There is no oil to mix.

What is the best Nissan for a sailboat?

A 6 HP or 9.8 HP with a long shaft. The longer shaft keeps the prop in the water when the stern lifts in a swell.

Related reading

See our Nissan outboard motors buyer’s guide and the guide to outboard motors for dinghies. If you want a current-production motor instead, browse our Tohatsu range or the Suzuki range.