The 3.0-liter Nissan VQ30DD engine was assembled from 1996 to 2004 in several boost options and was installed on such popular models as Cedric, Leopard, Stagea and Skyline. This power unit is known for its finicky to the quality of fuel consumed.
VQ30 family: VQ30DE, VQ30DET, VQ30DD, VQ35DE, VQ35DD, VQ35HR, VQ37VHR, VQ40DE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1996-2004 |
| Displacement, cc | 2987 |
| Fuel system | NEO-Di direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 230 – 260 |
| Torque output, Nm | 295 – 325 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 93 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 73.3 |
| Compression ratio | 11 |
| Features | NDIS |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | three chains |
| Phase regulator | eVTC |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4/5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Nissan Skyline 2003) — city — highway — combined |
14.2 8.6 10.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 190 |
The engine was installed on:
- Nissan Cedric 10 (Y34) in 1999 – 2004;
- Nissan Gloria 11 (Y34) in 1999 – 2004;
- Nissan Leopard 4 (Y33) in 1996 – 1999;
- Nissan Skyline 11 (V35) in 2001 – 2004;
- Nissan Stagea 2 (M35) in 2001 – 2004.
Disadvantages of the VQ30DD engine
- Many problems with this engine are associated with the consumption of low-quality fuel;
- In the engine, the nozzles are constantly clogged, the high-pressure fuel pump or the MAF sensor fails;
- Due to deposits on the intake valves, many people regularly experience detonation;
- Bad gasoline destroys the catalyst, the crumbs of which are sucked into the combustion chamber;
- That is why scuffs form on the walls of the cylinders and the oil begins to burn.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan VQ30DD
How much power does the Nissan VQ30DD make?
The Nissan VQ30DD develops 230 - 260 hp and 295 - 325 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Nissan VQ30DD take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Nissan VQ30DD have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Nissan VQ30DD: three chains.
Is the Nissan VQ30DD turbocharged?
No, the Nissan VQ30DD is naturally aspirated.
Does the Nissan VQ30DD 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 VQ30DD last?
The typical lifespan of the Nissan VQ30DD is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan VQ30DD?
Nissan Skyline 2003: city 14.2, highway 8.6, combined 10.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the Nissan VQ30DD installed on?
Nissan Cedric 10 (Y34) in 1999 - 2004; Nissan Gloria 11 (Y34) in 1999 - 2004; Nissan Leopard 4 (Y33) in 1996 - 1999; Nissan Skyline 11 (V35) in 2001 - 2004; Nissan Stagea 2 (M35) in 2001 - 2004.
What are the common problems of the Nissan VQ30DD?
Many problems with this engine are associated with the consumption of low-quality fuel. In the engine, the nozzles are constantly clogged, the high-pressure fuel pump or the MAF sensor fails. All known problems.





