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Nissan RB25DE engine: known problems
Used in 2 guides · 2498cc petrol · 5 known problems
Displacement
2498cc
Layout
I6 NA
Fuel
petrol
Known problems5
Everything our guides list for the variants with this engine: the engine itself plus the gearbox and ancillaries it's paired with. Each shows which cars it's listed for.
High
Timing belt neglect
Belt-driven interference engine; a snapped or skipped belt (common on imports with unknown service history) bends valves and wrecks the head.
Fix: Replace belt, tensioner and water pump on purchase if there is no proof of recent change.
Listed for: Nissan Skyline R32
Medium
Hidden rust (import body)
Same R32 rust traps as the rest of the range - floors behind the front wheels, rear arches and screen surrounds.
Fix: Inspect underbody and panel edges; prefer dry-climate cars.
Listed for: Nissan Skyline R32
Medium
Cam-cover and sump oil leaks
Same age-related rocker-cover, sump and main-seal weeping as every RB of this era.
Fix: Reseal cam cover and sump as needed; rear-main with gearbox out.
Listed for: Nissan Skyline R33
Low
NVCS (variable cam timing) rattle
The inlet-cam NVCS unit can rattle on cold start as it wears, a known RB25DE/DET trait.
Fix: Replace the NVCS solenoid/unit; ensure correct oil viscosity and clean oil.
Listed for: Nissan Skyline R33
Low
Idle / coil pack issues
Hunting idle and misfires from a dirty AAC valve or failing coil packs - typical RB maintenance.
Fix: Clean AAC, replace coils and check TPS.
Listed for: Nissan Skyline R33
Cars with the RB25DE2
From the FlamingCars guides for these cars. Specs are shown only where the guides agree and the value is verified.