The 3.0-liter Nissan VG30DET engine was produced by the Japanese concern from 1986 to 1996 and was installed only on large sedans such as Sima, Cedric and Gloria, as well as the Leopard coupe. This power unit was equipped with a Garrett T3 turbine and developed a power of 255 hp and 343 Nm.
VG family: VG20E, VG20ET, VG20DET, VG30i, VG30E, VG30ET, VG30DE, VG30DET, VG30DETT, VG33E.
Specifications
| Production years | 1986-1996 |
| Displacement, cc | 2960 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 255 |
| Torque output, Nm | 343 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 8.5 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | at the N-VCT inlet |
| Turbocharging | Garrett T3 |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Cima 1995) — city — highway — combined |
16.4 11.3 13.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~360 000 |
| Weight, kg | 235 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Cima 1 (Y31) in 1988 – 1991, Cima 2 (Y32) in 1991 – 1996;
- Nissan Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 – 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995;
- Nissan Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995;
- Nissan Leopard 2 (F31) in 1988 – 1992.
Disadvantages of the VG30DET engine
- The problematic place of the motor is the exhaust manifold, it just cracks;
- Also, the gasket often burns in the outlet and breaks when the fastening stud is removed;
- Frequent breaking off of the crankshaft shank threatens the engine with bending of the valves;
- A broken timing belt leads to the same result, its resource is approximately 70,000 km;
- Regularly contact the service to replace the pump and the upper radiator cap.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VG30DET
How much power does the Nissan VG30DET make?
The Nissan VG30DET develops 255 hp and 343 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VG30DET take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan VG30DET have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan VG30DET uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan VG30DET turbocharged?
Yes, the Nissan VG30DET is turbocharged (Garrett T3).
Does the Nissan VG30DET need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan VG30DET has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan VG30DET last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VG30DET is ~360 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VG30DET?
Nissan Cima 1995: city 16.4, highway 11.3, combined 13.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VG30DET installed on?
Nissan Cima 1 (Y31) in 1988 - 1991, Cima 2 (Y32) in 1991 - 1996; Nissan Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 - 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995; Nissan Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995; Nissan Leopard 2 (F31) in 1988 - 1992.
What are the common problems of the Nissan VG30DET?
The problematic place of the motor is the exhaust manifold, it just cracks. Also, the gasket often burns in the outlet and breaks when the fastening stud is removed. All known problems.
