The 4.1-liter Nissan VH41DE engine (or VH41 for short) was produced from 1991 to 2001 and was installed on the most expensive models of the concern, including the American Infiniti Q45. This power unit still attracts fans of swapping powerful engines in their cars.
VH41DE was designed on the basis of his older brother – VH45DE. The cylinder diameter remained the same – 93 mm, the reduction in volume was achieved by installing a crankshaft with a smaller crank diameter and longer connecting rods. This made it possible to reduce the piston stroke to 76 mm. Engine power 268 hp (200 kW) at 5600 rpm and 377 Nm at 4000 rpm.
VH family: VH41DE, VH45DE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-2001 |
| Displacement, cc | 4130 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 270 |
| Torque output, Nm | 377 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V8 |
| Block head | aluminum 32v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 93 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 76 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | double row chain |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 10W-30 / 10W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Cima 2000) — city — highway — combined |
14.7 11.2 13.1 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
| Weight, kg | 240 |
| Oil consumption, gr/1000 km | up to 1000 |
| Oil change interval, km | 10000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Cima 2 (Y32) in 1991 – 1996, Cima 3 (Y33) in 1996 – 2001;
- Nissan Leopard 3 (Y32) in 1992 – 1996;
- Infiniti Q45 2 (Y33) in 1996 – 2000.
Disadvantages of the VH41DE engine
- This engine uses metal guides, so there are no problems with the chain;
- Of the weak points of the motor, it can only be noted that the failures of the knock sensor and the mass air flow sensor;
- In all other respects, this engine demonstrates excellent reliability and service life.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VH41DE
How much power does the Nissan VH41DE make?
The Nissan VH41DE develops 270 hp and 377 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VH41DE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30 / 5W-40 / 10W-30 / 10W-40.
Does the Nissan VH41DE have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Nissan VH41DE: double row chain.
Is the Nissan VH41DE turbocharged?
No, the Nissan VH41DE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan VH41DE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Nissan VH41DE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Nissan VH41DE last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VH41DE is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VH41DE?
Nissan Cima 2000: city 14.7, highway 11.2, combined 13.1 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VH41DE installed on?
Nissan Cima 2 (Y32) in 1991 - 1996, Cima 3 (Y33) in 1996 - 2001; Nissan Leopard 3 (Y32) in 1992 - 1996; Infiniti Q45 2 (Y33) in 1996 - 2000.
What are the common problems of the Nissan VH41DE?
This engine uses metal guides, so there are no problems with the chain. Of the weak points of the motor, it can only be noted that the failures of the knock sensor and the mass air flow sensor. All known problems.
What engines are related to the Nissan VH41DE?
VH family: VH45DE.





