Nissan VG30DETT engine: known problems and recalls.

Known issues on record

• Turbo failure, and the engine comes out to fix it (Outlet report). SlashGear, citing Car and Driver, says the turbo seals can start leaking between 60,000 and 80,000 miles. Writing on Jalopnik about his own car, Peter Monshizadeh found a seized turbo and says the engine bay is so cramped that the easiest way to replace the turbos is to pull the engine.
• Fuel injectors and misfires (Outlet report). Jalopnik’s owner found two dead fuel injectors during his rebuild, and another failed about 3,000 miles later. He says the old-style injectors don’t like ethanol fuel. SlashGear, citing Autocar, says injectors can stick and cause misfires, and Hagerty UK says to listen for a ticking from the coils or injectors. 8 owner complaints to NHTSA mention it (Z32 300ZX).
• Timing belt (Outlet report). Hagerty UK says a new timing belt is needed every 60,000 miles, and to judge it on age as well as mileage. Jalopnik gives 60,000 miles or four years, whichever comes first. Hagerty UK also says to check for oil leaks at the cam end seals. Fix: Replace the timing belt every 60,000 miles or four years. 1 owner complaint to NHTSA mention it (Z32 300ZX).
• Heat, wiring and old hoses (Outlet report). Hagerty UK says this engine runs hot as standard, so the cooling system must be perfect, and that the heat can damage the wiring loom. Jalopnik’s owner found the rubber brake-booster vacuum hoses old and cracked, and says the many plenum vacuum hoses are hard to refit. 2 owner complaints to NHTSA mention it (Z32 300ZX).