The QG15DE engine (or QG15 for short) was designed to replace the GA15DE and was based on the QG16DE. The manufacturer has reduced the diameter of the cylinders. In addition, other pistons were used in the engine. The engine has a high compression ratio. However, for the most part, the engine is a repetition of the QG16DE that served as the basis for it.
In order to reduce exhaust toxicity, an EGR system was used on the engine, and a mechanical throttle was installed. This approach allowed us to slightly mitigate the damage caused to the environment by automobile exhaust.
This power unit was upgraded in 2002 by installing a phase regulator at the intake.
QG family: QG13DE, QG15DE, QG16DE, QG18DE, QG18DD.
Specifications
| Production years | 1999-20013 |
| Displacement, cc | 1497 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 90 – 98 (version without phase regulator) 105 – 110 (version with phase regulator) |
| Torque output, Nm | 128 – 135 (version without phase regulator) 140 – 145 (version with phase regulator) |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 73.6 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 88 |
| Compression ratio | 9.9 (version without phase regulator) 10 (version with phase regulator) |
| Features | EGR |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no (version without phase regulator) at the N-VCT inlet (version with phase regulator) |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 2.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 (version without phase regulator) EURO 4 (version with phase regulator) |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Almera 2005) — city — highway — combined |
8.6 5.5 6.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~220 000 |
| Weight, kg | 130 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Almera 2 (N16) in 2000 – 2006;
- Nissan Bluebird Sylphy G10 in 2000 – 2012;
- Nissan Sunny N16 in 2000 – 2005;
- Nissan Wingroad 2 (Y11) in 1999 – 2005;
- Samsung SM3 2 (L38) in 2002 – 2013.
Disadvantages of the QG15DE engine
- Often drivers experience floating speed due to throttle contamination;
- Loud noises or knocks under the hood are usually caused by misadjusted valves;
- The timing chain has a small resource, it stretches to a run of 120 – 150 thousand km;
- Twitching at low speeds disappear after flashing the control unit;
- During valve overlap, crumbs of burnt catalyst enter the cylinders.
The engine is characterized by the occurrence of extraneous noise and whistling during operation. Significantly increased fuel consumption can also be a headache for the owner of a car with a QG15DE engine. In addition, the engine may twitch when running at low speeds. It is not necessary to strive to fix this problem, since this is not a malfunction, but the specifics of the QG15DE engine. But if it is very annoying, you can solve the issue by flashing.
The QG15DE engine does not initially have extensive tuning options. And, as experts say, a reasonable option would be to purchase and install the QG18DE engine to replace the QG15DE.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan QG15DE
How much power does the Nissan QG15DE make?
Power output of the Nissan QG15DE, hp: 90 - 98 (version without phase regulator); 105 - 110 (version with phase regulator). Torque, Nm: 128 - 135 (version without phase regulator); 140 - 145 (version with phase regulator).
How much oil does the Nissan QG15DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 2.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan QG15DE have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan QG15DE uses a timing chain.
Is the Nissan QG15DE turbocharged?
No, the Nissan QG15DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan QG15DE 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 QG15DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan QG15DE is ~220 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan QG15DE?
Nissan Almera 2005: city 8.6, highway 5.5, combined 6.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan QG15DE installed on?
Nissan Almera 2 (N16) in 2000 - 2006; Nissan Bluebird Sylphy G10 in 2000 - 2012; Nissan Sunny N16 in 2000 - 2005; Nissan Wingroad 2 (Y11) in 1999 - 2005; Samsung SM3 2 (L38) in 2002 - 2013.
What are the common problems of the Nissan QG15DE?
Often drivers experience floating speed due to throttle contamination. Loud noises or knocks under the hood are usually caused by misadjusted valves. All known problems.
