The Nissan VQ20DE is a 1,998 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and electronic fuel injection. This compact V6 was engineered for smoothness and responsiveness, delivering 103–110 kW (138–148 PS) and 179–188 Nm of torque, making it a refined powerplant for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Cefiro (A32) and Cedric/Gloria (Y33) sedans, the VQ20DE was designed for comfortable, quiet cruising with adequate power for highway merging. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through sequential multi-port fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter, aligning with Japanese and European emissions regulations of the mid-to-late 1990s.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the variable intake manifold actuator (VIM), leading to a loss of low-end torque and triggering diagnostic trouble codes. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Bulletin NTB98-089, is often attributed to vacuum diaphragm degradation. The VQ20DE was succeeded by the larger VQ25DE and VQ30DE variants.
Production years 1995–2000 meet Japanese 1994 and Euro 2 emissions standards depending on market (Nissan EGI-95 Technical Guide).
The Nissan VQ20DE is a 1,998 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans (1995-2000). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet 1990s emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and reliability over outright performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 73.3 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (138–148 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 179–188 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1994 / Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL 5W-30 or 10W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The DOHC V6 layout provides a smooth, refined driving experience ideal for highway cruising but requires regular valve clearance checks every 60,000 km to maintain optimal performance and prevent noise. Using the specified 5W-30 or 10W-30 oil is critical for protecting the chain tensioners and hydraulic lifters. The variable intake manifold (VIM) system, while enhancing low-RPM torque, is prone to vacuum leaks; inspecting the actuator diaphragm per NTB98-089 is recommended if experiencing flat spots. Spark plugs should be replaced with OEM-specified iridium types to ensure complete combustion and prevent misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL 5W-30 or 10W-30 (Nissan Owner's Manual OM-VQ20-95). ACEA A3/B3 is acceptable.
Emissions: Japanese 1994 and Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (Nissan EGI-95 Technical Guide).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output varies slightly by vehicle application and ECU tuning (Nissan Group PT-1998).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs NTB97-055, NTB98-089
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. VQ20-001
Nissan Service Manual: SM-EC-95
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) Emissions Database
The Nissan VQ20DE was used across Nissan's A32/Y33 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Cedric/Gloria for enhanced NVH control-and from 1997 minor ECU revisions for improved emissions, creating minor interchange limits for control units. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the left cylinder block, near the alternator (Nissan SM-EC-95). The 8th VIN digit for VQ20DE-equipped Cedric/Gloria is typically 'V'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its 60° V6 configuration with a black plastic variable intake manifold (VIM) on top. Critical differentiation from the VQ25DE: The VQ20DE has a smaller bore (76.0mm vs 85.0mm) and a distinct, smaller intake plenum. ECU part numbers for pre-1997 and post-1997 models differ; verify compatibility using Nissan EPC before replacement.
The VQ20DE's primary reliability risk is failure of the Variable Intake Manifold (VIM) actuator, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or humid climates. Nissan internal service data indicated a notable rate of VIM-related complaints after 100,000 km, while common owner reports highlight ignition coil failures 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 (1995-2000) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VQ20DE.
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