Why the Nissan VQ V6 Engine is Still Being Sought After, 20 Years Later

[@speedkar99]

My apologies for the background noise in this video. I live ~1km from the runway of Canada's largest airport.

[@rondhole]

It's really surprising how stupid newer VQ35 engines. I believe older VQ water pump was outside the timing cover. At least before Renault destroyed Renault reputations

[@ardyjuniorcars9020]

How I wish to visit you someday

[@JoeUrbanYYC]

@@rondhole 1995-1999 VQ on the Maxima was inside the timing cover. Not sure about the VG series.

[@gaveintothedarkness]

Pearson airport? Fellow Torontonian?

[@speedkar99]

Yeah !

[@spideybuildscars]

I’m an Infiniti tech. I can confirm the only time I’ve seen a VQ fail was from lack of maintenance. They are insanely strong engines.

[@speedkar99]

Yep they are strong but when they burn oil and people run them low, they blow

[@kjk4795]

Do the new maximas also have a VQ V6 ?

[@spideybuildscars]

@@kjk4795 yes they do

[@kjk4795]

@@spideybuildscars nice, is it the VQ35DE ?

[@spideybuildscars]

Sure is!!

[@nickvang9097]

This man literally took the whole engine apart in a day for our entertainment. You sir, have earned my sub and like!

[@speedkar99]

That's how I am. It's one thing to talk about it, but when you see it, awesome!

[@Decimusblack88]

@@speedkar99 for real , can you make one putting it together

[@cambodianboost3945]

Looks to me he took only a half hour or so to completely disassemble this engine

[@sunnice2]

Agreed this has helped me out sooo much

[@tragedyfactorymusic]

And he Promotes Dental Hygene..You da man!

[@bradleyewoodworth]

No music, graphics or any other unnecessary BS. Extremely informative and well done! You should give lessons on how it's done. Bravo!

[@mechtechau]

Completely agree except for the wrong head removal bolt sequence and using a pry bar to remove stuck components from the block. This guys a good backyarder and I appreciate the time he's taken but he may need some finesse if he ever builds something to last.

[@bradleyewoodworth]

@@mechtechau I think he’s just doing it like that for the sake of time and because these are trashed motors for the most part.

[@domingodeejayable]

i couldn't agree more.

[@OOICU812]

@@bradleyewoodworth agreed.

[@chrish8487]

Agreed. No fluff or BS just straightforward information.

[@gradywilson3006]

I have owned a 02 Altima SE with the VQ35 since new and it has proven to be one of the most reliable cars I have ever owned. The car now has 240k on the clock and it still runs like a champ with great power available. Synthetic oil since new and regular maintenance have rewarded me with great reliability.

[@davekvisler7409]

Synthetic oil. Keep the oil level topped off and change every 5,000 miles. Along with regular maintenance to prevent overheating and these engines will last 200,000 miles plus. I just replaced an alternator on a 2002 Maxima, with 196,000 miles on the engine.

[@dimakhidarkovskiy2175]

@@davekvisler7409ain tha bitchh to replace the alternator, the AC compressor is on the way , very little room and lots of sweat, at least for me

[@BigHeadClan]

Ditto my 02 Altima hit 195k before she was written off in an accident, now drive a g37 and she’s at similar mileage. The Altima wasn’t entirely problem free it had a slight oil leak from the o ring behind the oil filter but that was about it.

[@BruceLee-xn3nn]

I just changed water pump on my step sons Altima. That shit sucks

[@RafaelGonzalez-gd5sr]

2005 Nissan murano sl whit 220K still running like a champ. Not issues that all .

[@NikPappaconstantine]

I’ve oddly become addicted to watching engine tear down videos on KZbin and I’ve got to say your channel is my absolute favorite. I really enjoy how you explain engine design and the benefits and drawbacks of a specific approach - I learn far more information from your videos. I can’t wait to see more!

[@speedkar99]

Glad you enjoy them. I got a Toyota V6 engine coming next

[@ky0611]

I can't believe no one commented on how important the tooth brush's job was in this video lol

[@speedkar99]

The teach-brush

[@a.a7648]

Its his brother's one

[@esphilee]

@@a.a7648 ,this one is the wife’s.

[@hydrocarbon82]

@@esphilee Maybe they're the same! lol

[@esphilee]

@@hydrocarbon82 , color is different. Not the same brush.

[@renzobelmonte4761]

I like the various amounts of your family’s items are used in this video

[@speedkar99]

I like being resourceful

[@pospc2]

Reduce,reuse recycle. I like using my family's old clothes as rags as well,that and wore out bath towels.

[@JoseMartinez-cc4rz]

@@speedkar99 That Nike shirt looked wearable.😒😒😒😒

[@badass6.0powerstroke10]

He uses his family's clothing in many of his videos, i just watched his CVT Transmission video other day, was using many of his family's clothes. Great videos by the way.

[@08VaNupe]

I’ve had a VQ30DE, VQ35DE FWD & RWD, VQ35HR Hybrid configuration and now VQ37VHR and all have been very reliable, never burned oil but 1 leaked at 200k due to valve covers. My highest mile one lasted 300k miles (VQ30DE) with regular maintenance and my moms VQ35DE also lasted 300k miles with regular maintenance. Long love the VQ

[@OliverKoolO]

I agree the vq30 with 245k miles in my 2000 maxima is the best. Valves covers are bad still running tho

[@ctknetwork3008]

yep have a vhr myself in my 370z i’m building it

[@winstonwolfwhiteshoes]

What did you do about the valve cover leak? I fixed it once but its leaking again...

[@08VaNupe]

@nofacewhiteshoes9209 I hd the valve covers replace and mine never leaked again sorry bro

[@gtlegacy8]

It’s not leaking oil it part of the design feature to help prevent the undercarriage from rusting 🤣

[@speedkar99]

Well if it helps sure...these do have an aluminum block so there isn't much to protect

[@pittypatterputzzler5311]

Lol.

[@Quaedro]

@@speedkar99 he’s joking lol

[@thegearknob7161]

This is part of the reason why the Front subframe on old Minis last a lot better than the rear ones do.

[@wannabeetiger]

Good one! 🤣🤣🤣

[@dann4561]

Nissan V6s are Legendary. Everything from Maximas, Muranos, & Infiniti CUVs, to Zs, GT-Rs, & Infiniti Sedans/Coupes all use them. ^_^

[@1PITIFULDUDE]

My Frontier VQ40 hauls Axx and sound sweet, even with stock exhaust. Unfortunately, the truck weighs 4.5k lbs.

[@liblib89]

@@1PITIFULDUDE to be expected, it has a body on frame design

[@RahBenjiii]

Dont forget the altima 😉

[@ultraguy8771]

Many Renaults also had them in Europe.

[@Lofi.z34]

You're talking about the VQ35DE & HR, and the VQ37VHR The VR30DDTT and VR38DETT for their twin turbos And for V8 the VK56VD which is a great engine, even used in FD

[@spacecloud-0]

man the knowledge, pacing, and recording was just amazing. I can't give this video enough praise. Thank you!

[@kaizersousa4082]

Recently purchased a Frontier with the VQ40, not knowing a lot about these engines I found this video very informative and well put together. Nice to listen to someone who really know their stuff👍👍

[@speedkar99]

Thanks! I'm glad you appreciate my work and video style.

[@HUGOSACCOUNT]

Fun fact about the oil galley gasket job on the secondary timing cover....when I worked for Nissan, you couldn’t buy just the gasket....you had to buy the whole timing cover. That oil leak was usually what caused most of those chain tensioners to lose their tension and resulted in the chain rattling on cold starts.

[@speedkar99]

Good to know

[@hackdeez1075]

They also don’t sell bushings for subframes they want you to replace the assembly (at least on VQ RWD chassis).

[@GurpreetHira]

My first Nissan product is a Infiniti m37....the best part of the car is the VQ37VHR! That exhaust note leaving a red light makes me smile each time...best sounding V6!

[@luisamoa2500]

If you like that then you'll love the VR6 sound. Sounds like a baby GTR

[@speedkar99]

Awesome VQ exhaust notes...I should have mentioned that in my video

[@Mickey_Bauer]

@@luisamoa2500 I agree, VR6 is probably one of the best sounding engines, after V10, thanks to its unique single head design and uneven length intake and exhaust runners. I love my VQ too but VR6 is special when it comes to sound 🙂

[@hauptwerk1]

Nope, it mows like a cow I have the vq35de and have owned an 3.0v6 Alfa Romeo Busso and that one made the best sound! And looks also a tenfold better by the way...

[@premiereautoengineering9830]

I am running this channel in the midst of many difficulties. Thank you so much for helping me and sending me forward, comrades🙏🙏

[@scottfirman]

Good explanation of this engine. The biggest issue on them is the plastic guide on the tensioner. The top of the arm snaps off and allows the plastic guide to slide down off the tensioner. I had to replace the chains and guides on my Quest. The tell tale rattle on start up that goes away after warm up really gives it away. I was told the engine needs to come out but it DOES NOT. I did it myself.

[@julioalbertopalomo968]

Videos like this is what makes KZbin such a great place

[@sailingblacklotus]

I got the vq40 variant. 300k still running strong.

[@speedkar99]

Nice.

[@thenostalgicgamer2093]

Vq37vhr is my favorite I got a brand new one dropped in my q40

[@anuar.m.y]

vq40 in my frontier! i thought it was the same as the vq35 but bored out to 4.0 L?

[@thenostalgicgamer2093]

@@anuar.m.y those things sound amazing

[@elonsus9747]

@@anuar.m.y basically yes.

[@Soloist1983]

What an exhaustive teardown. I own 2 Nissan/Infiniti's right now w/ VQ35DE's, this video gives me a much better mental image to reference when working on the car. Thankfully they haven't needed much outside of regular maintenance.

[@Pokemonguy16RS]

Can agree these v6 VQ35 engines are bulletproof, owned since high school, and still runs to this day (Yes with 1-2 repairs/YR throughout the years). Even Scotty Kilmer says these engines are bulletproof.

[@Bulldogges]

Packed with comprehensive engine information and conveyed by someone who REALLY knows these engines. The edits are excellent and there is no showmanship or extraneous commentary. This production should be the model for every video on KZbin. I look forward to watching more of speedkar99's other presentations. Well Done!

[@speedkar99]

Thanks! I have a few more engine teardown videos to post

[@mattf0509]

I work on cars all day everyday, this video was great! I watched the entire thing. It was very informative and very well articulated. Thank you for taking the time to post this.

[@speedkar99]

You are welcome

[@Aminmotors]

My car most likely has failed timing chain tensioner, looking to tear it down to see if it skipped too much and this video is the best teardown video I found!

[@tarekmmhamza6609]

Good sir! If I were to take a class about auto engines and others, you’d be the first on my list as a professional instructor.

[@yokobono1180]

BRO i love this channel you really tend to stick to VQs and all nissan parts, dig it not many channels do that and its funny as well !

[@speedkar99]

I actually did alot of Toyota and Honda videos initially. But when it comes to teardowns Nissan cars/parts are easier to find cheap. I know them like the back of my hand now haha.

[@adammartin1507]

You mentioned the chain rattling on cold startup and that made me realize that that’s probably what’s going on with my CRV. It’s a really brief rattle and then it sounds fine. These videos are great!

[@joshuav1088]

Yeah I have a civic Si 2007 with 250k miles does that every morning when cold but runs like a clock k series are the best I had so many k series engines and they are super reliable

[@thetechlibrarian]

Yeah my mil had a crv that did the same thing. My rav 2ar does the same thing and we bought that new and did 5k oil changes.

[@jgranger2002]

The crv probably needs a new intake cam gear. It will get worse.

[@clydebailliff]

I have had two of these engines in the 4 liter variety in a couple of Frontiers. Excellent motors and we've had zero regrets with either one.

[@cleric670]

Preface: Good video, always like your stuff. Gotta clear up a few misconceptions about the VQ35DE though. The oil doesn't mix with the coolant when the water pump fails, there is a little hole drilled in the side of the block just outside the pump, that's the traditional "weep hole". All DE motors have it both the RWD and transverse. Also the front galley gaskets inside the timing chain cover never had an issue leakingon the VQ35DE as you mentioned. That problem was almost exclusively on the VQ35HR motor which is a COMPLETELY different motor with basically zero interchangeable parts to the DE. Just to clarify, the HR is not just a beefed up version of the VQ35DE, it's an entire ground up rewrite of the ENTIRE platform with zero interchangeable parts, it has more in common with the newest VQ35VHR. "VQ" just means "variable cam timing, dual overhead cams, electronic port fuel injection". Hence why three generations of engines all start with VQ. The biggest issue with the valve covers is not warpage which I've literally never even heard of. The problem is the spark plug well tube seals are built into the valve cover and not individually replaceable. When they fail it typically involves getting entirely new valve covers. There is a way to drill out the existing and replace with ones that sort of fit but it's quite a pain. The buildup on the pistons is almost ALWAYS caused by the poor quality piston rings used in the DE, the cause excess blowby gas to the crankcase which increases oil vapor consumption through the PCV system, in addition to just sucking it off the walls of the cylinder, these engines do have oil squirters so there's plenty of oil to suck... Typically the lower plenum (which you had already removed from the engine, the part with the injectors is actually the intake manifold) will have a massive amount of oil in the center galley section.

[@larryvercher9809]

When the water pump fails the coolant does get into the oil pan. It did on my 02 Maxima se. No fun replacing water pump.

[@SethBerry79]

Awesome, entertaining video. Your delivery and editing are brilliant whether it's intentional or not. There's always someone's old shirt to do the cleanup with which I find hilarious. So I do want to mention one thing, as someone who owns an Xterra (VQ40DE, just a bigger-bore version of the 3.5) and has been through nearly every possible situation from harness to head gasket to "how the hell did a nut get into my combustion chamber"... You mentioned that it's "mandatory" to remove the rear timing cover when doing head work, when in fact it's not required at all. The short 10mm bolts that sit behind the timing sprockets are all that you need to remove. Some go into the cam bracket, some go directly into the head, but it's evident when one gets that far as to which ones must be pulled. That's it! Save yourself a couple of hours.

[@burwood69]

I've owned a VQ30 and now own a VQ40, 25 years difference and they still make this motor. Oil burning wasnt too common on the 35's but it definitely relied on maintenance from the owner.

[@speedkar99]

Yep they need to be well fed

[@BigHeadClan]

The early vq35 did burn a bit of oil but it wasnt a huge issue until late in life and easily addressed with good oil and exhaust mod. Think my 02 altima only took 1/5 a liter every 2 months at around 200, 000km.

[@draganbuhanovich6411]

Oil throws from psv to the intake,oil can can help

[@ZynovFTW]

I love my VQ37VHR in my '12 G37 Sedan ❤ such a reliable engine

[@dxta7360]

@@abrame8750 I have a vk45de in my car too. But can you suggest how I can make that engine in my car to sound like a sport's car? I mean the exhaust system I want it sounding sporty.

[@dandc2011]

@@dxta7360 Do you drive an M45 or FX45? If so Megan racing makes a pretty nice cat-back system. If you want really loud then delete the secondary cats and just straight pipe it out to a flowmaster tip.

[@videomaniac108]

@@dxta7360 You might check out some sound clips from cat back systems with an H pipe crossover.

[@cashkidd19]

Great video I’ve owned Nissan’s all my life with this motor and alway wanted to see a break down of it. Thanks.

[@ahmadeshtaya8460]

A lot of effort, really impressive, keep up the good work

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@aomz6878]

Amazing video. I own a 350z which i turbocharged myself in a garage box. It was my first real experience with the engine itself and i learned so much out of it. This video helped me alot to understand visually most of the things ive worked on the past months under my car and it gave me confidence and enthusiasm for the vq which i adore. My next goal for the coming time is to reinforce and rebuild the engine in my z, which was very loyal to me for over 5 years now. These engines are just amazing in my opinion.

[@darthganu]

I feel very confident in my '07 Altima SE with 6-spd manual and '12 Quest after watching this teardown. Thank you very much for your in depth explanation of how engines works.

[@speedkar99]

At least you got the VQ. Hopefully the CVT lasts

[@darthganu]

@@speedkar99 In regards to my Quest, my mechanic just scanned the van a couple of weeks ago and said the CVT is in excellent condition.

[@KayBertoss]

Oh wow, awesome video! I had a 2003 Nissan Pathfinder with this engine. We bought it used as a lease return with 80,000km’s. In 2006. Just traded it in with 300,000km’s for a new Tacoma. The engine and transmission were still going strong. I did regular maintenance with oil changes every 5,000kms. IF I floored it, it would still get up and go. Burned about 1 litre of oil between oil changes. Not bad for a vehicle with that many Km’s. Also, drove it hard through the coastal mountains 8-9 times every year during the summer. Only had one real issue with it and that was the throttle body failing at 120,000kms. Cost me 1k to fix. Other than that just regular maintenance. Came with the 4spd Auto. Auto trans fluid was changed just once from the dealership at 120,000ks. No problems with it. Must have been the trans cooler it came with.

[@speedkar99]

They sure can take a beating!

[@ronaldobrien211]

Simple words no fancy gimmicks and a fantastic informative video! wish there were more like you.

[@2k2albatross22]

Speedkar99, This is a great overview. I have had to change the valve cover once on my 2002 Maxima to resolve one of the oil issues that you have pointed out. As you pointed out I also had the oil leaking into the spark plug socket but that was resolved after the valve cover was replaced. After 16 years of ownership the car is still solid and feels like new. My car is a manual and it really is still a joy to drive.

[@MrRickracer]

Just a note here, the water pump weep hole is captured and sealed off from the rest of the engine by a pair of o-rings, when they leak, it goes outside the crankcase, not inside, or it would be a huge design flaw. Carry on!

[@carbon_wavelight]

yep sounds about right. I had the same problems with my KA24E. Chain tensioner was plastic and wore out, and the valve cover gasket leaked like a sieve. Best part about these engines is that they paint themselves! Great videos btw, love what you do here.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. Hoping for alot more to come.

[@carbon_wavelight]

@SG2 February no it just seeped out when she was all warmed up and had oil pressure :/ It did have tons of cam lope though, but I always thought that was because it didn't have a balancing shaft

[@Luke_SkyWalk3r]

I have this engine in my 2006 Nissan Murano SL Fwd with 320,843km (199,363 miles) on it. It still runs great. I change the oil and filter every 5,000-6000km. Anti freeze every 100,000km and other fluids as needed. I still haven't flushed the cvt fluid, but I may have that done soon. I'm not having issues, its just well beyond the recommended cvt flush, interval. I bought the car, years ago, for $3900 canadian, at a dealer, and it had 121,000 km on it and was mint. I deffenitly gotten my moneys worth and it still has lots of life left!

[@chuckschillingvideos]

I had a 2004 Infiniti G35 6MT with the VQ35DE motor. I put 169K HARD miles on that car and the only issue I ever had with it was the camshaft position sensor failed. It's an easy repair (if you can reach it) that doesn't cost much to do. Never burned a drop of oil. That was perhaps the last generation of decent Nissans.

[@uptownsamcv]

I have an 02 6 speed maxima with the same engine, I'm at 286,000 miles now. The main issues I've had are valve cover leaks, upper oil pan leak, and coils going out every once in a while. the car does have oil consumption issues but runs like a champ.

[@nowimhigh]

The oil builds up on the top of the pistons and valves thanks to emissions. The pcv positive crankcase ventilation valve is vacuumed back to the lower plenum and on the driver side valve cover the extra pressure is ventilated into the intake tube. It also allows fresh air into the crankcase. I just installed an oil catch can and I have both banks running to a baffled set up. It's a closed system so it ventilates back to the lower plenum vacuum. It collects about an ounce of vapors, oil, blow by, etc month. I checked my plenum and it's clean as a whistle. Before when I installed my plenum spacer it wasn't too bad. But it did have oil residue throughout the plenum going down the intake manifold and into the intake valves. A made sure to run a can of seafoam through the brake booster vacuum into the plenum. Then while I did a tune up and changed the sparkplugs I squirted some sea foam down the spark plug hole onto the pistons. I moved the crank to move the pistons a bit. Squirted a little more sea foam and let it sit over night. I then cranked it up and it burned all of that carbon off the pistons and valves. It made a world of a difference and the OCC does do its job. I just got a cheap $20 one off ebay it has two inlets for both banks with a baffled filter set up. Then an outlet that you can either vent to atmosphere or run as a closed system running back to the plenum. I highly recommend doing this if you just purchased a higher mileage G35. Your engine will run so much smoother and stronger.

[@speedkar99]

You'll see carbon build up on my next video worse than this...BMW!

[@davidpeiffer568]

Very informative. I also appreciate your speaking skill. You don't skip a beat. I realize there is editing but only to save time. Very impressed.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. I try to edit out the boring parts for save you time

[@japerezo75]

My 2010 Xterra has the 4.0L engine which is not as smooth as the VQ35 and once it reached 100K miles something happened, like 100 additional HP’s were released. It got super powerful all the sudden. Great engine.

[@speedkar99]

Lol. Just broken in

[@typicalgaming6068]

speedkar99 is this real or you being sarcastic ? Mine has 100 k and it is a vq. Lol

[@japerezo75]

Currently at 130K. Replaced sparks plugs (preventative, they were in good shape) and right hand side valve cover gasket because of dust accumulation looking dirty.

[@JamesChechele]

I have a 2015 exterra. With a 4.0 engine. 50,000 miles runs like new. But terrible gas mileage

[@AJNpa80]

We've had 4 VQ40s, still have 2 at the moment, the other ones would still be with us if the vehicles that carried them hadn't each eaten a massive T-bone. One was over 400 with nothing but oil changes. 1 07 X auto, 2 14 X P4X manuals, 1 14 Frontier auto base 4wd. We lost 2 Xs to getting T-boned, walked away without a scratch and both ran and drove, too much body damage and frame tweaked. One was a dump truck towards rear passenger flying over a hill, no brake light in footage. The other was a junkie sleeping through a country stop sign into my driver side when I was going 50 on a two laner.

[@kennyvcent]

I have an 2004 Maxima with exactly this engine. Am about to hit 200k and all i have at the moment is a P0400 code which I intentionally don't want to fix. Very fast, solid engine and good fuel economy for what it is. Just give it good oil and engine flush at oil change, you'll be fine. Thanks alot for this video! Love your work.

[@speedkar99]

Thanks for your ownership experience. How's the CVT holding up?

[@monkeywkeys3916]

Had that car. Fav V6

[@chipb1193]

@@speedkar99 I think the 04 Maxima was still the 5 speed. I don’t think the Maxima had the CVT until 2007.

[@kennyvcent]

@@speedkar99 The 2004 maxima i own came with the descent reliable 4 speed auto. 2005 - 2006 came with the faster but not so reliable Aisin Warner 5 speed auto. CVT started from 2007 till date. So am very lucky!

[@kennyvcent]

@@chipb1193 Yes, you're right. For the Maxima SL model, 2004 came with 4 speed auto, 2005 - 2006 is the 5 speed auto. 2007 till date is the CVT.

[@physics2817]

Incredible journey into my fav engine 😇 Thank you 🙏

[@MuffinKingStudios]

Great video. Very informative and funny. Keep it up, you deserve it

[@speedkar99]

Thanks

[@jimmyerbe768]

Oh my god EXCELLENT VIDEO on explaining this 3.5 and it looks like the 4.0 is mainly the same with the exception going to the .5 in bore and possibly in the stroke. Very fast and clear speaking with no extra BS to make your video quick and entertaining to the mechanic. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@speedkar99]

That's my style

[@gnotagnome24]

It's wild to me that they have the water pump INSIDE the engine. Amazing how many different ways there are to design a combustion engine.

[@lomfmur]

Internal water pumps are unfortunately quite common these days. Audi, Chrysler and Ford all use them to name a few. Probably one of the most common engines in North America (the Ford 3.5 Ecoboost V6) uses an internal water pump

[@mariobannano6592]

I got to give to this guy, he is master mechanic, he really knows his stuff. God bless, he knows his stuff. He's a great mentor or teacher.

[@speedkar99]

Glad you like it!

[@RENEMARINE]

Everyone in your family is wondering where their clothes are😂😂😂

[@mattgruver2970]

Thank you for such a great video describing some of the details during tear down, and mentioning weak points and implied items that should be addressed during a head-gasket replacement. This is a sophistocated engine. I'm doing a head-gasket replacement for my 2008 XTerra, and this video will help me immensly.

[@speedkar99]

Glad it'll help. I'm guessing there's more room to work on it in the trucks

[@mirceacartas6489]

Thank you for the effort you put in these videos, keep up with this great work

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. It sure does take alot to put these together but it's all for the learning

[@ajourneysaved4311]

Thank you. I have a 16 altima with a vq35de that has over 100k. I have never had any problems with the motor or transmission. With everything going on in the automotive industry, I want to keep it running. Great tutorial! 👌

[@andrewstewart9589]

Wow, that was an impressive breakdown and explanation. I'm digging into a timing chain job on my VQ40DE and this was extremely helpful.

[@CarlosAguilar-de8rq]

Bro your a beast!! I been in this trade for 11 years very well explained & very well performed!!

[@speedkar99]

Thank you

[@Dcc357]

Toyota's 2GR-FE V6 is their version of the VQ35. Been in production for a very long time and still a strong, efficient motor.

[@kkkkkkkkkkaaaaaaable]

anyone ask? no? didn't think so

[@Dcc357]

@@kkkkkkkkkkaaaaaaable Okay boomer

[@speedkar99]

Yep it's a good engine but the VQ has been around even longer!

[@worldlinerai]

The VQ engines came out when Toyota introduced the MZ engines. I remember Nissan using the VQ30DE engines for their Maxima back in 1999 (3.0 Liter was the standard class for car and minivan V6s back then) and the VQ35DE is just an upsized version. I’m glad Toyota created the GR series to replace the MZ since the MZ couldn’t keep up with most competitors.

[@pushhrodd01]

The 2GR is very similar to the VQ35 I work at Toyota and the amount of similarity is insane

[@renejacques8288]

I have the 3.0L on '95 Maxima. You're the first to take off the back timing cover. I've looked tirelessly to see the back cover off. But still you didn't show behind the back timing cover. I was told, I have have two oil rings behind the back cover that's causing a leak onto the ground. My car runs great. But like you said, it leaks a lot of oil. I changed the valve cover gaskets two years ago and they're leaking again.

[@speedkar99]

Shoot I actually shot the back of the timing cover but edited it out for the sake of length

[@renejacques8288]

@@speedkar99 OK. Are you aware of the O-rings behind the back timing cover that leak oil to the ground? Thanks for the video anyway. At least, I got to see what not to take off on the back timing cover. Now, to take replace the rear main seal, I don't have to remove any cylinders, right?

[@trucklovemarko3110]

@@renejacques8288 no you don’t have to remove the cylinders just have to remove your transmission.

[@omaribawn777]

Wow, i really appreciate you videos. LOVE it and i learn SSSSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoo much. Keep goinggg

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. Keep learning

[@revup85]

Enjoyed the video, only thing is the VQ35 debuted in the Pathfinder in 2001 not the Maxima in 2002.

[@speedkar99]

Sorry about that bit. My focus was more on the cars but yeah they did use these in trucks as well

[@Daniel-zh3qz]

Interesting and nicely edited as always. Thank you!

[@speedkar99]

You are welcome

[@ElectricWolf1983]

I have the VQ40DE which are also used in the Nissan Navara pick ups built in Spain and Thailand. Called the Frontier in US. Very reliable and smooth, love the sound of a 6 cylinder :-)

[@speedkar99]

Love the sound too!

[@Pilledone]

Now I know specifically where my Z is leaking, thanks 😅

[@ShawnTheRazor]

Amazing how you explain these engines man. I have learned more about car engines in the past two videos than I have all my life.

[@LemonsGD]

Symmetrical V6 timing chain setups always look so cool

[@dddarien]

This guy knows his stuff! Had a couple of these engines and most of the weak points he discussed I actually had issues with. Now I’m searching for the 2AZFE tear down

[@SPfg3388]

This is the engine I have in my 2014 Infiniti. The service manager told me it's the best engine Infiniti ever put in their cars. He said that if properly maintained, it should easily last 200k miles.

[@coachnutt61]

I have a 07 Infiniti g35s I have close to 230k and still going strong. I drive it every day every where.

[@jadend2760]

My Infiniti has 214720 on it right now and the only problem is a minor oil leak

[@coachnutt61]

@@jadend2760 mine will use about a quart between changes unless I run it hard on a long trip.

[@i-55southstl55]

I got a 2006 m35 with 231,000 miles on it. I just put a full tuneup, 2 valve covers and gaskets and intake gaskets, brakes and rotors all around, now the water pump and thermostat next.

[@FlowmasterStang]

I was just watching a video of a guy who had over 300k miles on a 2005 maxima, and another guy doing some acceleration runs in a 2004 maxima with 235k miles. So i definitely believe it

[@mattcaser6581]

One of the very best youtube automotive creators. You are an excellent teacher.

[@kevinvazquez2741]

250k Miles later a coolant pipe on the top part of the engine craacked while driving cross state and it blew the head gaskets i cried for that it was still a good strong engine.

[@papilgee4evaeva]

As the owner of an M35, this is satisfying to watch. One thing about the valve covers is that the spark plug seals are not directly replaceable once they fail... and they are very well known for failing.

[@papilgee4evaeva]

@SG2 February From what I understand, the standard remedy is to replace the entire valve cover (though a few people have found alternative fixes, but those seem to take as much time as replacing the cover itself). I have a replacement valve cover sitting in my garage waiting to be installed. Just haven't had the time. 😄 Mine is on the driver's side also (I think that's the most common failure side). No other leaks have shown themselves, just the oil into the spark plug tubes.

[@babypinkbean]

First 20+ min vq engine video that I can sit without saying “yeah stfu” and clicks off . Good job 💪 definitely subscribing

[@mj350gt2]

08 G35sport 6MT FBO right here! Love my G! Finally installed true coilovers, rear lower camber arms, (rear lower spring bucket delete) rear toe arms! Car is finally done for now....great content bro! VQGANG!

[@mj350gt2]

Arthur Wall sweet! have Megan’s racing coilovers, on super sport Michelin tires. Also have racing LW alternator and LW crank pulleys VQboys,

[@mj350gt2]

Arthur Wall nice tire setup, yes big difference, shifting through gears my engine is way more responsive through the power band

[@mj350gt2]

Arthur Wall yes and I also have a ADD W1 baffled dual oil catch cans that I recommend! My G sounds beast, and breathes like a Japanese dragon, everyone thinks I’m turbo! G boys all N/A

[@mj350gt2]

Arthur Wall sickkk! Got em! We the V8 hunters! Good luck bro with your G

[@mattlowe9913]

You’re like the AvE of automotive. Keep it up!

[@speedkar99]

Thanks. I love doing this stuff.

[@bryanderksen4448]

He doesn't cuss enough to compete with AvE

[@ShaneRimmerWorld]

I had one of those in a 2006 Altima 3.5 SE. I really liked it until it ate the timing chain guides at 110,000 miles. You aren't kidding about the clearance on the front side of that engine. Of course, even changing spark plugs required removing the upper intake plenum, the strut brace, and the windshield cowl. Interestingly enough, in my application, the oil filter was remotely located in the front passenger wheel well and there were two accessory belts where one of them had a manual adjuster.

[@exit5398]

Great info in this, extremely accurate, minus one small portion on your final thoughts. You said that the transmissions that Nissan chose to mate with the VQ were all poor, but that statement only applies to the automatic transmissions, which were utter garbage. The manual transmission option from 2005+ was the CD009, and is touted as one of the best available 6 speed manual transmissions in the tuner world. There have even been a few drag race 350z's pushing 1000 bhp+ on stock transmission internals and a really beefy clutch without damaging the driveline.

[@jimmyerbe768]

So far knock on wood that my pathfinder with the 4.0 engine has not had a transmission problem it is a 2006 and I have about 300,000 miles on the transmission I am on my second engine and I pull a boat on a trailer quite a bit on long distances, My transmission has held up well I replaced the radiator as some had antifreeze. Enter the tranny fluid from a leek inside the radiator also added a oil cooler for the the long haul dragging the boat.

[@subterfusion4005]

I have a 2008 Infiniti G35x with the HR V6. Its such a snorty animal and feels faster than my ecoboost mustang. I really love the car; im out back struggling with the alternator; finally quit at 250k.

[@sukh.088]

Hey, I own a 1996 infiniti i30 with a VQ30DE engine, and I would love to learn more about these engines, what are some good upgrades, etc. .... Thank you!

[@chrismiller2053]

I enjoy the level of detail in all of your videos. You have answered so many of my questions along the way. So glad I subscribed several months ago. Thanks!

[@volodymyrbuchak1852]

About the waterpump. You’re wrong there,buddy. This design has separate seals on oil and coolant systems with outside drain betwin. If any system leaks,they’ll never mix together,but will drain outside tru the drain passage. Werry good design,despite it’s Nissan. On my Xterra it takes around 30 min to change the waterpump,but the engine positioned longside,on front wheel drive maybe a pain in rear end (engine positioned sideway)

[@DaytonaBlueHr]

Is this true for both the VQ35HR and the VQ35DE??

[@volodymyrbuchak1852]

@@DaytonaBlueHr Blocks are nearly identical,same concept. HR (high response) are used in Z’s and Infinity’s with rear wheel drive setup,if i’m not mistaken.

[@rondhole]

@@volodymyrbuchak1852 high rev

[@DaytonaBlueHr]

Sam S Hr and De are not almost identical. They have about 80% different parts used and none of the parts on the DE can be bolted on to an Hr. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJDSenSZg5qmr7s ^ watch this video and it explains it all

[@DaytonaBlueHr]

Sam S and no Hr’s dont have the piston ring problem that caused the Rev-up engines to consume oil. My Hr doesnt burn any oil at all between oil changes and i do drive the car pretty hard

[@OOICU812]

One of the best classrooms on KZbin. Keep em coming!

[@shadowsaiyan]

The VQ is older than 20 years. The platform has been in production since 1995. It's ANCIENT.

[@speedkar99]

Yeah the VQ has been around for a while but the VQ35 variant has been around since 2001

[@BigHeadClan]

@@abrame8750 An engine is more than just its displacement or power per cylinder, the Mazda engine doesn't make as much power because it's design is focused to reduced emissions and fuel economy. That said I agree Nissn is arguably the best mass producer of 6 cylinder engines in the world.

[@4dscdriver]

​@@speedkar99an interesting fact is the vq35 that came in the 01-04 pathfinders used the same timing chain system as a vq30.

[@nigelmcclure6440]

This guy knows his stuff when it comes down to engine's and I just actually love the VQ35DE because wow is it ever a great engine to modify and make it go like hell

[@blackonblack...9244]

Curious, you gonna do any videos on the Chevy LS' and LTs motors?

[@speedkar99]

If I can get one !

[@aidenpryde50]

thank you for the in-depth analysis of the engine as well as the tear down. I have an 03 track 350z and Im just getting ready to hand it off to my oldest. Now I have a much better understanding of what I will run into.

[@speedkar99]

Oh yeah...good car and good engine but keep up on the oil

[@sekekamawow5386]

Speedkar, how do you feel about the VQ 4.0 found in the frontier? Pretty strong motor aswell?

[@speedkar99]

I don't have experience with those but if they are anything like their smaller counterparts it Should be a durable motor, just more tuned for torque than top end power.

[@elonsus9747]

The early 4.0’s had timing chain issues (2005-2010). I don’t think they consume oil like the 3.5’s do though.

[@gophop]

The egines are strong. Just have to watch for pre-2012 auto tranies. The trany oil cooler leaks and mixes with coolant.

[@usmc29er44]

@@gophop Strawberry milkshake of death

[@janinelv]

I just came across your videos yesterday and I’m hooked! Simple and straightforward I’m able to learn a lot without tearing it down myself! Awesome job! Thanks

[@shanefraser7764]

VQ30DE all day ❤🌿🤘

[@CadillacDriver]

Yeap. I have a '98 Cedric Brougham with that engine, and only 38,000km on her. It's a beautiful thing.

[@shanefraser7764]

@@CadillacDriver ive got a 98 Cedric Gran Turismo, there are only 10 registered in new Zealand lol and only 3 like mine, i have the vq30De. old mate in my town had a cedric with a vq3odet, Cedrics and glorias and cimas are rare but nz has a few of each, Lots of jdm imports from jpn

[@CadillacDriver]

@@shanefraser7764 I'm a Kiwi also bro.

[@damienlelandais7076]

Although I'm not completely fluent in English, I have understood everything ! Well, I think :) Anyway explanations are clear even for those who are not expert in engines design, video edition is smart and effective, that's a very good job !

[@Mtechthewise]

The semi-subliminal message from this video: use quality oil and check often.

[@speedkar99]

Yes. That's my conclusion at the end of this video

[@rondhole]

@@speedkar99 Most Americans and Canadians got cheap oil change deals but most of them use nonsynthetic oil, and most people don't check oil level regularly. European paid close to $200 in their annual 5L oil change in most shop, although DIY may save 4x less. But they do check oil level more often since oil change interval is 1-2 years. Most Japanese cars has small oil sums and within 10k miles, all oil can be burned

[@djkneecaps91]

Check mine at least once a week, same with coolant. It’s the easiest most productive maintenance you can do.

[@mj350gt2]

Sam S yes sirr! Oil change every 3,000 miles. If I run my G hard, every 2,500! Just hit 167,000, and drives like a dream!

[@b10matt70]

give me any future updates on here , I have a 2003 g35 sedan and agree with the oil change every 2,500-3,000 . Full synthetic and the oil will get real fucking dark at the 2,000 mark . Pretty much feel like it’s the killer of this engine and the major cause for all the major VQ problems.

[@weloveups831]

I love your in depth videos. This video answered so many of my 2011 murano questions. I have very slight water seepage externally on both heads. Now I know I don't want to change my head gaskets. I have 113000 miles and routinely change my trans filter. I will run it until it blows.

[@xXPepePeppersXx]

"Use my wife's toothbrush," mine's more important

[@eohgee-1269]

dude you are really good at explaining these engine break downs

[@theakh4238]

When you make a great enigine, there is much to improve over the years. The Mitsubishi Sirius 4Gxx series lasted 37 years.

[@milosmanojlovic5805]

My 03 fx35 233k miles no issues. Stay on top on maintaining ur engine and I think ANY engine can go a long way .

[@VenturiLife]

Great video and explanations. Nissan used these engines in many cars, as you stated they are a very solid powerplant overall.

[@CORZER0]

Crazy informative in only 20 min! Once again, you rock!