The Nissan VQ40DE is a 3,954 cc, 60‑degree V6 petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2020. It features an aluminium block and heads, DOHC valvetrain with 24 valves total, and electronic fuel injection. This naturally aspirated engine delivered 193–202 kW (261–275 PS) and 381–394 Nm of torque, engineered for strong, linear power delivery and smooth operation across its rev range.
Fitted to models such as the Frontier (D40), Xterra (N50), and Pathfinder (R51), the VQ40DE was designed for robust, reliable performance in SUVs and pickup trucks, prioritizing low-end torque for towing and off-road capability. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through its electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter systems, meeting applicable standards including US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5 and later regulations.
One documented service concern is excessive oil consumption in certain production batches, linked to premature wear of piston rings. This issue, referenced in Nissan Technical Service Bulletin NTB06-140, was addressed by Nissan with revised piston ring designs and specific repair procedures for affected engines.
Production years 2005–2020 meet applicable emissions standards for their respective model years and markets (VCA UK Type Approval records for relevant chassis codes).
The Nissan VQ40DE is a 3,954 cc 60-degree V6 petrol engine engineered for mid-size SUVs and trucks (2005-2020). It combines dual overhead camshafts with electronic sequential fuel injection to deliver strong, linear torque and smooth, refined power. Designed to meet evolving emissions standards over its lifespan, it prioritizes durability and responsive performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,954 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.5 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 193–202 kW (261–275 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 381–394 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Applicable standards for model year (e.g., US Federal Tier 2, Japanese) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual primary chains) | |
| Oil type | API SM/SN, SAE 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 182 kg |
The DOHC design provides excellent performance but requires no periodic valve adjustments. The primary reliability concern is oil consumption in certain model years (2006-2010), often due to piston ring wear as per TSB NTB06-140; symptoms include low oil level warnings and blue exhaust smoke. Using high-quality 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting API SM/SN specifications is recommended. The timing chains are generally robust but tensioners should be inspected if rattling is heard. Fuel injectors may require cleaning after 160,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires API SM/SN specification (Nissan Owner's Manual). Modern equivalents are acceptable if viscosity grade is maintained.
Emissions: Compliance varies by market and model year (e.g., US Federal Tier 2 Bin 5, Japanese 2005 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-2010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Manuals SM-EC-05, SM-EN-10
Nissan Service Bulletins: NTB05-090, NTB06-140
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Nissan VQ40DE was used across Nissan's D40/R51/N50 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions updates over its lifespan, but core mechanical components remained largely consistent, ensuring broad parts interchangeability within its production run. 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 VQ40DE in many markets). Visually, it is a 60-degree V6 with dual overhead camshafts and no turbocharger. Critical differentiation from VQ35DE: The VQ40DE has a larger displacement (3.9L vs 3.5L) and a visibly larger intake manifold. Electrical connectors and ECU part numbers may differ between model years.
The VQ40DE's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in early production models, with elevated incidence in vehicles with high annual mileage. Nissan TSB NTB06-140 documents this as a known issue for specific VIN ranges, while owner reports frequently cite oil level warnings and exhaust smoke. Regular oil level checks and using the correct specification oil make timely intervention critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2005-2020) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VQ40DE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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