The Nissan VG33E is a 3,275 cc, 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2004. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder heads, and a single overhead camshaft per bank with 12 valves. In standard form for the Frontier and Xterra, it delivered 134 kW (180 PS) and 294 Nm of torque, providing robust low-end power ideal for utility and off-road use.
Fitted primarily to the D22 Frontier pickup and R50 Xterra SUV, the VG33E was engineered for durability, torque, and ease of maintenance in demanding conditions. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through electronic fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting applicable US EPA Tier 1 and Japanese standards of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor O-ring seal, leading to oil leaks into the distributor cap, referenced in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB99-087. This issue, often caused by heat degradation of the rubber seal, can result in misfires and no-start conditions. Nissan later issued a revised, more heat-resistant O-ring kit.
Production years 1996–2004 meet applicable US EPA Tier 1 and Japanese standards for their model year (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable for this non-EU market engine).
The Nissan VG33E is a 3,275 cc 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for trucks and SUVs (1996-2004). It combines electronic fuel injection with a robust SOHC 12-valve design to deliver strong low-end torque and reliable utility performance. Designed to meet late-1990s emissions standards, it prioritizes durability over peak horsepower.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,275 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 134 kW (180 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 294 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic Fuel Injection (Multi-point) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 1 / Japanese standards | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 190 kg |
The SOHC 12-valve design prioritizes low-end torque and simplicity but requires attention to the distributor O-ring to prevent oil contamination and misfires. Using SAE 5W-30 oil is recommended for cold climates. The 9.0:1 compression ratio allows use of regular unleaded fuel. The chain-driven timing system is generally very robust. The distributor O-ring should be inspected and replaced preventatively per Nissan NTB99-087, especially in hot climates or high-mileage vehicles.
Oil Specs: Recommends SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (Nissan Owner's Manual Frontier, 2000). 5W-30 is preferred for year-round use.
Emissions: Meets US EPA Tier 1 and Japanese standards (Nissan Service Bulletin NTB99-087). Not certified for EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is for standard US-spec models (Nissan TIS Doc. VG-33E-04).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VG-33E-01, VG-33E-02, VG-33E-03
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. VG-3275
Nissan Service Bulletin: NTB99-087
Nissan Owner's Manual: Frontier (D22), 2000 Model Year
The Nissan VG33E was used exclusively in Nissan's D22/R50 platforms with longitudinal rear-wheel-drive or 4x4 mounting. This engine received specific adaptations for the Xterra, including a unique air intake system and engine cover. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block, near the rear of the engine (Nissan TIS VG-33E-01). The 8th VIN digit for VG33E-equipped vehicles is 'V'. Visually, it is distinguished from the smaller VG30E by its larger displacement and from the VG33ER by the absence of a supercharger. The intake manifold and distributor placement are key identifiers. Critical differentiation: The VG33E uses a distributor-based ignition system, while later VQ engines use coil-on-plug.
The VG33E's primary reliability risk is distributor O-ring failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles operating in hot climates or with high mileage. Nissan Service Bulletin NTB99-087 details the issue, while owner reports frequently cite coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing as a secondary cause of overheating. Adherence to preventative maintenance for the distributor and cooling system make longevity critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (1996-2004) and owner-reported failure data (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VG33E.
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