Nissan VR30DDTT 3.0 engine: Specifications, reliability, problems and tuning

The Nissan VR30DDTT engine is an outstanding example of modern technology in the automotive industry. This 3-liter V6 engine combines high power, reliability, and advanced engineering that makes it popular among premium cars. Let’s consider its technical characteristics in detail.

Main engine parameters

Determined volume: 2997 cm³
Power system: direct injection
Power: from 300 to 400 hp
Torque: 400 to 475 Nm
Cylinder block: aluminum V6
Cylinder head: aluminum 24-valve
Cylinder bore: 86 mm
Piston stroke: 86 mm
Compression ratio: 10.3

Design features

The VR30DDTT is equipped with twin Garrett MGT1446 turbochargers, giving it high performance and fuel efficiency. The engine also includes inlet and exhaust phase controllers, which improves its dynamic performance and fuel economy.

Turbocharging: two Garrett MGT1446
Phase adjusters: inlet and exhaust
Transmission timing: chain
Hydrocompensators: none

Performance parameters

For optimal performance of VR30DDTT it is recommended to use 5.4 liters of 0W-20 grade engine oil. It is also important to use high octane AI-98 fuel to achieve the stated performance and engine durability.

Recommended oil: 0W-20, 5.4 liter capacity
Fuel type: AI-98
Environmental class: EURO 5/6
Example life: 200,000 km

Application in automobiles

The VR30DDTT engine is installed in several models of Infiniti and Nissan vehicles, which emphasizes its versatility and adaptability to different requirements:

Infiniti Q50 1 (V37): 2016 to present
Infiniti Q60 2 (CV37): 2016 through 2022
Nissan 400Z 7 (RZ34): from 2022 to present
Nissan Skyline 13 (V37): from 2019 to present

Main Problems

Engine problems

Drainage of antifreeze

Problem: Antifreeze leakage is associated with cracks in the cylinder head (Cylinder Block Head).
Cause: Poor intake air cooling and excessive use of engine power.
Solution: Replacing the cylinder head, installing an improved cooling system (Heat Exchanger), proper firmware. Diagnostics may include chemical analysis of the oil and pressure testing of the cooling system.

Liner Problems

Problem: Wear of liners, especially after 80,000 km.
Solution: Regular oil changes (every 5,000 to 7,000 km), replace liners before serious problems occur. When buying a car with high mileage, it is recommended to check the liners.

Soot on intake valves

Problem: Inlet valve fouling due to direct fuel injection.
Solution: Regular cleaning of the valves (every 40,000 km), installation of an oil trap.

Oil problems

Problem: Use of unsuitable oil.
Solution: Use of recommended oils (5W-30, 5W-40), oil changes according to engine hours.

Transmission problems

Sticky steering rack

Problem: Knocking of the steering rack of the DAS system.
Solution: Install a good battery, repair the rack by replacing the inserts, use high starting current batteries.

Front Gearbox Problems

Problem: Mineral oil in the gearbox, which can cause it to wear out.
Solution: Change oil to synthetic oil, check oil condition when purchasing.

Transmission Box Problems

Problem: Poor quality oil (Mattic G) in the transfer case.
Solution: Change oil to Mattic S or equivalent, check oil condition at time of purchase.

Actual Transmission Problems

Problem: Friction wear and kicking when shifting gears.
Solution: Regular partial oil change (every 30,000 km), top up the oil 100-200 ml above the level, use SPORT mode instead of STANDART to reduce the load on the frictions.

Recommendations for maintenance and inspection at purchase

Cylinder endoscopy: Check the condition of the blocks and cylinders for scoring and craters.
Compression: Check engine compression, optimum values are 10-13.5.
Spark plugs: Check condition of plugs and mixture by head.
Condition of intake valves: Cleaning with walnut husks and installing an oil trap.
Check for catalytic converters: Make sure upper and lower catalytic converters are in place.
Belt and tensioner condition: Check and replace if necessary.
Check the condition of the oil in the gearboxes, transfer case and automatic transmission: The condition of the oil can provide information about the condition of these components.