The 3.0-liter Nissan VG30i engine was assembled for a short time, from 1985 to 1989, and quickly gave way to more modern power units with distributed injection. This single-injection gasoline engine was only installed on pickup trucks or SUVs.
VG family: VG20E, VG20ET, VG20DET, VG30i, VG30E, VG30ET, VG30DE, VG30DET, VG30DETT, VG33E.
Specifications
| Production years | 1985-1989 |
| Displacement, cc | 2960 |
| Fuel system | single injection |
| Power output, hp | 130 – 140 |
| Torque output, Nm | 210 – 220 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 83 |
| Compression ratio | 9.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.9 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Pathfinder 1989) — city — highway — combined |
15.6 10.6 12.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~380 000 |
| Weight, kg | 220 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Navara 1 (D21) in 1985 – 1989;
- Nissan Pathfinder 1 (WD21) in 1985 – 1989;
- Nissan Terrano 1 (WD21) in 1985 – 1989.
Disadvantages of the VG30i engine
- The main failure is breaking off the crankshaft shank and bending the valves;
- In second place are pump leaks or failure of hydraulic lifters;
- A lot of inconvenience causes regular burnout of the exhaust manifold gasket;
- During removal of the release, the fastening studs often break off and this is a problem;
- In all other respects, this engine is very reliable and has a huge resource.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VG30i
How much power does the Nissan VG30i make?
The Nissan VG30i develops 130 - 140 hp and 210 - 220 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VG30i take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.9 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan VG30i have a timing belt or chain?
The Nissan VG30i uses a timing belt.
Is the Nissan VG30i turbocharged?
No, the Nissan VG30i is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan VG30i need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan VG30i has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan VG30i last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VG30i is ~380 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VG30i?
Nissan Pathfinder 1989: city 15.6, highway 10.6, combined 12.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VG30i installed on?
Nissan Navara 1 (D21) in 1985 - 1989; Nissan Pathfinder 1 (WD21) in 1985 - 1989; Nissan Terrano 1 (WD21) in 1985 - 1989.
What are the common problems of the Nissan VG30i?
The main failure is breaking off the crankshaft shank and bending the valves. In second place are pump leaks or failure of hydraulic lifters. All known problems.
