Even among the engines from Japanese automotive brands, those from Nissan stand tall because of their no-frills reliability and exceptional fuel efficiency. But they're anything from "boring." Nissan's innovative engine technologies inject the fun back into driving, which typical gasoline and diesel engines had been missing. The brand has also churned out some legendary performance engines like the twin-turbo RB26DETT and the VR38DETT. It's hard to say that the engines from any brand can do it all, but Nissan's sure do come close.
Key Features of Nissan Engines
Fuel Efficiency
Nissan's engine technologies, like the Variable Valve Timing Control System (VVTCS) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVVTCS), help to optimize fuel consumption. Certain engines also come with the intelligent start/stop system, part of Nissan's Intelligent Mobility Platform, which turns off the engine when idle to reduce unnecessary fuel usage.
Durability & Longevity
Nissan engines are nearly indestructible. It's common for them to last more than 300,000 km or 10 years, and up to 480,000 km or 15 years with the proper maintenance.
Performance
Technologies used in Nissan's engines, like the Variable Valve Timing Control System (VVTCS) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVVTCS), improve fuel efficiency while boosting engine performance. Some of Nissan's engines also feature a direct injection mechanism for better combustion efficiency and a highly efficient turbocharger.
Sourcing Nissan Engines (OEM vs. Aftermarket)
When you purchase a brand new Nissan, it comes with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) engine made by Nissan. Engines made by third-party manufacturers and usable in Nissan fall under the "Aftermarket" parts category.
Unless the engine of your Nissan is out of production and impossible to find, we recommend investing in an original Nissan engine to return your car to its original level of performance. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Aftermarket engines might not only not be covered by Nissan's warranty — they could also void the warranty and even damage your vehicle when installed. Moreover, they might not even fit into your Nissan's engine bay properly. When it comes to an expensive part like the engine, it's prudent to avoid taking chances and to go with the original.
Types of Nissan Engines
Gasoline Engines
Gasoline engines are lighter, higher revving, quieter, and require less maintenance. This makes them the ideal candidate to power the vast majority of automobiles.
Nissan's gasoline engines, like the MR16DDT, utilize gasoline direct injection for improved engine charging and fuel consumption.
Diesel Engines
Diesel engines offer better acceleration, fuel efficiency, and hauling potential. As such, besides being used in passenger cars, they are also widely applied in heavy vehicles.
Nissan's diesel engines, like the M9R, feature their Clean Diesel technology, which reduces NOx and PM emission levels while using a 1600 bar common rail system and high-precision piezoelectric-controlled injectors for greater combustion efficiency.
Engines Used in Hybrid Cars
The main advantages of hybrids are cleaner emissions and greater fuel efficiency. Nissan's e-POWER internal combustion engine in their hybrid vehicles can achieve 50% thermal efficiency, further improving fuel efficiency while reducing CO2.
Notable Nissan Engine Series
VQ Series
Beloved by car enthusiasts, the VQ is a family of V6 engines with displacements between 2.0L and 4.0L. From 1994 to 2007, the VQ engines were utilized in the 350z, Pathfinder, and Altima for their power, high mileage, and excellent fuel consumption due to the sodium-filled exhaust valves.
QR Series
The QR inline four-cylinder DOHC water-cooled engines were introduced in 2000 and remain in production today. The QR20DD features NEO direct injection for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, whereas the QR25DER, used in hybrids like Pathfinder and Murano, is fitted with a supercharger for even more power.
RB Series
The RB is legendary in the world of car tuning. It is a family of 2.0L to 3.0L inline six-cylinder engines that was initially produced between 1985 to 2005 but reintroduced in 2019. Understressed and balanced, the RB has powered Nissan's high-performance models like the Skyline and Skyline GTR. Arguably the most famous RB engine, the RB26DETT Dual-Overhead Camshaft Electronic Concentrate Control System Twin Turbo engine, was fitted under the hood of the Calsonic R32.
ZD Series
The ZD is a 3.0L inline four-cylinder diesel engine in production since 1999. The second generation of the ZD features common rail injection, leading to lower emissions and fuel consumption. It is used by the Caravan, Patrol, and Pathfinder.
YD Series
Nissan's YD are 2.2L and 2.5L inline four-cylinder diesel engines produced since 1998. They are low maintenance, lasting 300,000 km upwards without the need for serious repairs, and can be found in most of Nissan's minibuses, SUVs, and pickups.
Maintenance & Care of Your Nissan Engine
Here are some simple maintenance tasks that you can do yourself to keep your vehicle in good condition:
1. Regularly change the engine oil to keep the parts lubricated.
2. Check and maintain the coolant levels.
3. Be aware of any leaks and address them promptly.
4. Replace the spark plugs, wires, and fuel filters when necessary.
Common Issues & How to Address Them
You might encounter these common engine issues along the course of ownership of your Nissan. One might be engine overheating, which can be due to a leak in the cooling system, a bad radiator fan, a faulty water pump, a faulty thermostat, or low engine oil levels. Another is engine noises due to anything from a bearing to a timing shaft problem. Fixes for these will involve repairing or replacing the necessary parts or topping up engine oil. If significant damage to the engine has already occurred, you may need to replace the entire unit.
Are Nissan Engines Expensive?
Nissan engines are relatively inexpensive. However unlikely yours might need replacing in the future, rest assured that you won't be breaking the bank to do so.
Where to Buy Genuine Nissan Engines Online
Brand-new OEM crate engines can be purchased directly from your country's Nissan and OEM parts retailers. On the other hand, second-hand Nissan engines can be a cost-effective alternative. These are in great condition and at affordable prices here at BE FORWARD Auto Parts.
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