The Nissan RB25DET is a 2,498 cc, inline‑six turbo‑petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and electronic fuel injection. This engine delivered 206 kW (280 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, with its ceramic-ball-bearing turbocharger providing strong, linear power delivery for spirited driving.
Fitted primarily to the Skyline (R34) GT-T and Stagea (M35) models, the RB25DET was engineered for responsive performance and high-revving character. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, aligning with Japanese 1998 and Euro 3 standards.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the turbocharger's ceramic turbine wheel under high boost or aggressive driving, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB99-077. This issue, often attributed to thermal shock or overspeed, led to the adoption of a more robust steel turbine wheel in later RB26DETT applications. The RB25DET was succeeded by the VQ35DE in the Skyline V35.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Japanese 1998 and Euro 3 emissions standards depending on market (Nissan Emissions Compliance Doc. RB-EU3-98).
The Nissan RB25DET is a 2,498 cc inline‑six turbo‑petrol engineered for performance sedans and coupes (1998-2002). It combines SOHC 24-valve architecture with a ball-bearing turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and a high-revving character. Designed to meet late-1990s emissions standards, it balances exhilarating performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 71.5 mm | |
| Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1998 / Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single ceramic-ball-bearing turbo (T25G) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL 10W-40 or 15W-50 | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC turbo layout provides a broad, accessible powerband ideal for spirited driving but requires high-quality 10W-40 or 15W-50 oil to protect the turbocharger and chain tensioners under high thermal loads. The ceramic turbine wheel is susceptible to failure under sustained high boost or aggressive driving; upgrading to a steel turbine unit is a common preventative measure. Spark plugs should be replaced with OEM-specified copper or iridium types to ensure optimal combustion. The engine's 8.5:1 compression ratio makes it highly responsive to tuning modifications.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL 10W-40 or 15W-50 for high-temperature protection (Nissan Owner's Manual OM-RB25-98).
Emissions: Japanese 1998 and Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (Nissan Emissions Compliance Doc. RB-EU3-98).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. The 280 PS figure is a gentleman's agreement limit (Nissan Group PT-2000).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs NTB99-077
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. RB25-001
Nissan Service Manual: SM-EC-98
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Emissions Database
The Nissan RB25DET was used across Nissan's R34/M35 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Stagea for enhanced load-bearing-and shared its core architecture with the more powerful RB26DETT, creating a strong aftermarket support ecosystem. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the water pump (Nissan SM-EC-98). The 8th VIN digit for RB25DET-equipped Skyline is typically 'B'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its inline-6 configuration with a single turbocharger on the exhaust manifold and a black plastic intake plenum. Critical differentiation from the RB26DETT: The RB25DET has a smaller displacement (2.5L vs 2.6L) and a single camshaft per bank (SOHC vs DOHC). The turbocharger (T25G) is also distinct from the RB26's T25 or T28 units.
The RB25DET's primary reliability risk is failure of the turbocharger's ceramic turbine wheel, with elevated incidence in modified or aggressively driven vehicles. Nissan internal service data indicated a notable rate of turbo-related complaints after 80,000 km, while common owner reports highlight ignition system weaknesses as a secondary concern. Infrequent oil changes can accelerate timing chain guide wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1998-2002) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2002-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN RB25DET.
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