The Nissan RB20DET is a 1,998 cc, inline‑six turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1998. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 24 valves, and a Garrett T3 turbocharger, delivering outputs ranging from 132 kW (180 PS) to 157 kW (215 PS) depending on model year and variant. Electronic fuel injection (EFI) ensures precise metering for boosted performance.
Fitted primarily to the R31 Skyline, R32 Skyline, S12 200SX, and C33 Laurel, the RB20DE…
Production years 1985–1990 meet applicable Japanese and international emissions standards for their model year and market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Nissan RB20DET is a 1,998 cc inline-six turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and coupes (1985-1998). It combines electronic fuel injection with a single turbocharger to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet contemporary emissions regulations, it balances performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 69.7 mm | |
Power output | 132–157 kW (180–215 PS) | |
Torque | 236–265 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) | |
Emissions standard | 1980s/1990s Japanese/International Standards | |
Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (single) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | 10W-40 (API SG/CD or equivalent) | |
Dry weight | 165 kg |
The Nissan RB20DET was used across Nissan's R31/R32 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Skyline and a different exhaust manifold in the Laurel-creating minor parts variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The RB20DET's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to aggressive driving or high mileage. Nissan internal reports from 1990 noted a correlation between neglected oil changes and turbo bearing seizures, while owner club data suggests ignition system faults are a common cause of drivability issues. Sustained high boost and heat make oil quality and cooldown procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1985-1998) and owner club aggregated failure data (1990-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The RB20DET is generally robust when maintained correctly, but its turbocharger and ignition system are known weak points. Early failures are often due to poor maintenance, not inherent design flaws. With regular oil changes, proper cooldowns, and attention to the ignition system, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km. Neglect, however, leads to expensive turbo or engine repairs.
The most frequent issues are turbocharger wastegate diaphragm failure, ignition system faults (distributor, coils), coolant leaks from hoses or the water pump, and oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. These are well-documented in Nissan service bulletins and enthusiast forums, with preventative maintenance being key.
The RB20DET was primarily used in the Nissan Skyline R31 and R32 (GTS-T, GTS-4), the 200SX S12 (Turbo), and the Laurel C33 (Medalist Turbo) from 1985 through 1998. It was Nissan's performance turbocharged inline-six for these models during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Yes, the RB20DET responds well to tuning. Common stage 1 mods include a boost controller, exhaust, and ECU chip, yielding 30-50 PS gains. More advanced builds use larger turbos, intercoolers, and forged internals for 300+ PS. Its strong bottom end and smooth inline-six character make it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Fuel economy is modest for a turbo inline-six. Expect around 11-13 L/100km (26-22 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Skyline. Highway cruising can drop to 9 L/100km (31 mpg UK), while aggressive city driving can exceed 15 L/100km (19 mpg UK). It prioritizes performance and smoothness over efficiency.
Yes. The RB20DET is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. While the chain is generally reliable, listening for unusual noises and addressing them promptly is crucial.
Nissan originally specified 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SG/CD standards. Today, a high-quality 10W-40 semi-synthetic or full synthetic oil is recommended, especially for turbocharged engines, to better handle heat and prevent coking. Change intervals should be 5,000 km or 6 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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