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 RB20DET was engineered for spirited performance and touring refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through a feedback-controlled fuel system and catalytic converter, meeting Japanese and select international standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
One documented reliability concern is premature turbocharger wastegate diaphragm failure, often linked to heat cycling and age-related material fatigue. Nissan Service Bulletin NTB‑89‑045 addresses this issue, noting elevated failure rates in high-mileage engines and recommending inspection during major services. In 1991, Nissan revised the turbo actuator design for improved durability.
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 turbocharged inline-six provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict 5,000 km oil change intervals using high-detergent oil to prevent turbo bearing coking. Allowing the engine to idle for 60 seconds after hard driving is critical to cool the turbo center section. The 8.5:1 compression ratio tolerates boost well but demands precise ignition timing. The EFI system is robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds; ensure all earth straps are clean and tight. Pre-1991 models should have the turbo wastegate actuator inspected per NTB-89-045.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting API SG/CD specification (Nissan Owner's Manual 1990). Modern equivalents are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Meets 1980s/1990s Japanese and international standards applicable at time of manufacture (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Not certified for modern Euro standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Peak figures vary by model and market (Nissan TIS Doc. RB20-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs RB20-001, RB20-003, RB20-005, NTB-89-045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Engine Power Measurement
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side cylinder block, near the rear of the engine (Nissan TIS RB20-001). The 8th VIN digit for RB20DET-equipped Skyline models is typically 'T'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its single Garrett T3 turbocharger mounted at the rear of the engine and the cast iron exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated RB20E: RB20DET has a wastegate actuator, boost control solenoid, and a reinforced bottom end. Turbo oil feed and drain lines are unique to the DET variant.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN RB20DET.
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