The Nissan VG30E is a 2,960 cc, 60‑degree V6 petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1995. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder heads, SOHC valvetrain with 12 valves total, and electronic fuel injection. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivered 115–120 kW (156–163 PS) and 226–244 Nm of torque, prioritizing smooth, linear power delivery for comfortable cruising.
Fitted to models such as the 300ZX (Z31), Maxima (PU11), and Pathfinder (D21), the VG30E was engineered for refined, reliable transportation and effortless highway performance. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its electronic fuel injection system and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting applicable standards for its production years.
One documented concern is distributor shaft bearing wear, which can lead to ignition timing issues and engine misfires. This issue, referenced in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB90-088, is often attributed to heat and age-related degradation of the bearing material. Nissan later revised the distributor assembly for improved durability in subsequent VG-series engines.
Production years 1984–1995 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval records for relevant chassis codes).
The Nissan VG30E is a 2,960 cc 60-degree V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and sports coupes (1984-1995). It combines electronic multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft per bank to deliver smooth, linear power and reliable everyday performance. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes durability and refinement over peak output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,960 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 115–120 kW (156–163 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 226–244 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point fuel injection (Nissan ECCS) | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable standards for model year (e.g., US Federal, Japanese) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single primary chain) | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The SOHC design provides reliable, low-maintenance operation but requires periodic valve clearance adjustments every 60,000 km. The distributor, mounted at the rear of the engine, is prone to bearing wear (NTB90-088); symptoms include misfires and erratic timing. Using high-quality conventional or synthetic 10W-30/40 oil meeting API SF/SG specifications is recommended. The cast iron block is robust, but coolant system maintenance is critical to prevent corrosion. Fuel injectors may require cleaning after 150,000 km to maintain optimal spray patterns.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents (API SN) are acceptable if viscosity grade is maintained.
Emissions: Compliance varies by market and model year (e.g., US Federal Tier 0, Japanese 1983 regulations). Consult VCA or local type approval for specific chassis.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output varies slightly by application and model year (Nissan Group PT-1990).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Manuals SM-EC-84, SM-EN-89
Nissan Service Bulletins: NTB85-045, NTB90-088
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Nissan VG30E was used across Nissan's Z31/PU11/D21 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the 300ZX versus the Maxima-and from 1987 received minor ECU updates for emissions, creating minor interchange limits for electronic components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left (driver's side) cylinder block, just below the cylinder head mating surface. The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine type ('V' for VG30E in many markets). Visually, it is a 60-degree V6 with a single distributor at the rear of the engine and a centrally mounted throttle body. Critical differentiation from VG30ET: The VG30E lacks a turbocharger, intercooler, and associated plumbing. The intake manifold is also simpler. Electrical connectors for the ECU may differ between pre-1987 and post-1987 models due to ECU updates.
The VG30E's primary reliability risk is distributor shaft bearing wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate vehicles. Nissan service bulletins document this as a common failure point, while owner reports frequently cite ignition-related drivability issues. Extended service intervals and heat soak make timely distributor replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1985-1995) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (1990-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VG30E.
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NISSAN Official Site
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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)
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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
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