The Nissan VQ35DETT is a 3,498 cc, 60‑degree V6 twin‑turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2007. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and Nissan's advanced twin-turbo system with twin intercoolers, delivering exceptional power and a broad, flat torque curve. In its sole application, it produced 206 kW (280 PS) in standard form, making it a flagship performance powerplant for its era.
Fitted exclusively to the Z33 350Z Track and Fairlady Z Version NISMO, the VQ35DETT was engineered for high-performance track and spirited road use. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through precise electronic throttle control and optimized combustion, meeting Japanese 2000 and Euro 3 standards for its specific homologation.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger turbine shaft bearings, noted in Nissan Service Bulletin NTB05-088. This issue is often attributed to heat soak and inadequate cooldown periods after high-load operation. Nissan addressed this in late 2005 with revised turbocharger cartridges featuring improved bearing materials and oil drain designs.
Production years 2003–2007 meet Japanese 2000 Emissions Standards and Euro 3 standards for homologated markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8888).
The Nissan VQ35DETT is a 3,498 cc 60-degree V6 twin-turbo petrol engine engineered exclusively for the Z33 350Z Track/NISMO (2003-2007). It combines dual overhead camshafts with a sophisticated twin-turbo system to deliver high specific output and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Japanese 2000 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes high-revving performance with forced induction.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, 60°, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.5 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) | |
| Torque | 371 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 2000 / Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin IHI turbochargers with air-to-air intercoolers | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual primary chains) | |
| Oil type | API SM or SN (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The twin-turbo system provides exceptional power and a broad torque curve but requires strict adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals using high-quality 5W-30 oil to prevent turbo bearing failure. Premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) is mandatory for optimal performance and to prevent detonation. Post-drive cooldown periods (1-2 minutes of idle) are critical to prevent heat soak damage to the turbochargers, especially after track use. The revised turbochargers introduced in 2005 should be used for replacements (Nissan NTB05-088).
Oil Specs: Requires API SM or SN specification (Nissan Service Manual SM-EC-VQ35DETT). ACEA A3/B4 is an acceptable modern equivalent.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to homologated export models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8888). Japanese domestic models comply with 2000 Japanese Emissions Standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Nissan PT-2006).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs TB-03-10, NTB05-088
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. VQ35-9999
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8888)
The Nissan VQ35DETT was used exclusively in the Z33 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations beyond its standard NISMO/Track specification, as it was a limited-production, homologation-special powerplant. All technical details are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface of the block, just above the oil filter on the driver's side (Nissan SM-EC-VQ35DETT). The 8th VIN digit for Z33 350Z is 'V' for VQ35 series. Visually, the VQ35DETT is unmistakable by its twin IHI turbochargers, twin intercoolers, and unique “VQ35DETT” casting on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the VQ35DE: VQ35DETT has two turbochargers, two intercoolers, and associated plumbing. Pre-2005 and post-2005 turbochargers have different internal part numbers; verify before replacement (Nissan NTB05-088).
The VQ35DETT's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to track use without proper cooldown. Nissan Service Bulletin NTB05-088 documents this issue, while general owner surveys indicate that revised turbochargers introduced in 2005 largely resolved the problem. Heat management and cooldown discipline make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2003-2007) and owner-reported data (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VQ35DETT.
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