The 3.0-liter Nissan VG30E engine (or VG30 for short) was assembled from 1983 to 1999 and, in fact, is one of the most massive V6 engines of its time, as it was installed on many models. The unit was produced in a wide range of capacities, there was even a version with a phase regulator.
VG family: VG20E, VG20ET, VG20DET, VG30i, VG30E, VG30ET, VG30DE, VG30DET, VG30DETT, VG33E.
Specifications
| Production years | 1983-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 2960 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 150 – 180 |
| Torque output, Nm | 240 – 260 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 – 11.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | as an option |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.9 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Terrano 1994) — city — highway — combined |
16.2 11.6 14.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~390 000 |
| Weight, kg | 220 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan 200SX 3 (S12) in 1983 – 1988;
- Nissan 300ZX 3 (Z31) in 1983 – 1989;
- Nissan Cedric 6 (Y30) in 1983 – 1987, Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 – 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995, Cedric 9 (Y33) in 1995 – 1999;
- Nissan Gloria 7 (Y30) in 1983 – 1987, Gloria 8 (Y31) in 1987 – 1991, Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 – 1995;
- Nissan Laurel 5 (C32) in 1984 – 1989;
- Nissan Maxima 2 (PU11) in 1984 – 1988, Maxima 3 (J30) in 1988 – 1994;
- Nissan Navara 1 (D21) in 1990 – 1997;
- Nissan Pathfinder 1 (WD21) in 1990 – 1995;
- Nissan Quest 1 (V40) in 1992 – 1998;
- Nissan Terrano 1 (WD21) in 1990 – 1995;
- Infiniti M30 1 (F31) in 1989 – 1992.
Disadvantages of the VG30E engine
- The main problem is the bending of the valves due to the breaking of the crankshaft shank;
- Also, there are regular leaks of the water pump and the sound of hydraulic lifters;
- Do not forget to service the timing belt every 70,000 kilometers;
- The gasket in the outlet often burns out, and when the collector is removed, the studs break;
- After replacing these studs with thicker ones, the collector often cracks.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VG30E
How much power does the Nissan VG30E make?
The Nissan VG30E develops 150 - 180 hp and 240 - 260 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VG30E take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.9 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan VG30E have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan VG30E uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan VG30E turbocharged?
No, the Nissan VG30E is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan VG30E need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan VG30E has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan VG30E last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VG30E is ~390 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VG30E?
Nissan Terrano 1994: city 16.2, highway 11.6, combined 14.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VG30E installed on?
Nissan 200SX 3 (S12) in 1983 - 1988; Nissan 300ZX 3 (Z31) in 1983 - 1989; Nissan Cedric 6 (Y30) in 1983 - 1987, Cedric 7 (Y31) in 1987 - 1991, Cedric 8 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995, Cedric 9 (Y33) in 1995 - 1999; Nissan Gloria 7 (Y30) in 1983 - 1987, Gloria 8 (Y31) in 1987 - 1991, Gloria 9 (Y32) in 1991 - 1995; Nissan Laurel 5 (C32) in 1984 - 1989; Nissan Maxima 2 (PU11) in 1984 - 1988, Maxima 3 (J30) in 1988 - 1994 and 5 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the Nissan VG30E?
The main problem is the bending of the valves due to the breaking of the crankshaft shank. Also, there are regular leaks of the water pump and the sound of hydraulic lifters. All known problems.
