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“Thanks to EngineMarket, I saved over £1,200 on my engine replacement and got matched with a great local specialist within the hour.”
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NISSAN ENGINE MARKETPLACE
Nissan Cima Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Save
Get quotes today from trusted UK Nissan Cima engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines - supply & fit available.
Cima VH45DE V8 Engines - from £1,800 to £4,500
-> Rebuilt units from £1,800 · Common codes: VH45DE, VH45DE-1, VH45DE-2
Cima VQ30DET Turbo Engines - from £2,200 to £5,200
-> Rebuilt units from £2,200 · Common codes: VQ30DET, VQ30DET-A
Cima VK45DE Late Model Engines - from £2,000 to £4,800
-> Rebuilt units from £2,000 · Common codes: VK45DE, VK45DE-1, VQ35DE
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How It Works
3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best Nissan Cima Replacement Engine
Get Instant Quotes from Nissan Engine Specialists Across the UK - 100% free, no obligation. Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
12-Month Warranty
Supply & Fit Available
Nationwide Delivery
Trusted UK Suppliers
Live UK Engine Market Data
What Are UK Drivers Paying for Nissan Cima Engine Replacement?
The table below shows typical UK rebuilt engine costs across Nissan Cima variants - compare failure causes, engine codes, fuel types, and price ranges to benchmark what UK grey import owners are paying.
Average Market Prices
- Nissan Cima (FY32) VH45DE GX1991-1996£1,900-£3,400Oil consumption piston ringsVH45DEPetrol 4.5L
- Nissan Cima (FY33) VQ30DET Type S1996-2001£2,200-£4,500Turbo actuator failureVQ30DETPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Cima (FY33) VH45DE Limited1996-2001£2,000-£3,800Injector seal leakVH45DE-2Petrol 4.5L
- Nissan Cima (F50) VK45DE Type P2001-2006£2,100-£4,200VVT-i solenoid failureVK45DEPetrol 4.5L
- Nissan Cima (F50) VQ35DE GX2006-2010£1,950-£3,900Timing chain guide wearVQ35DEPetrol 3.5L
- Nissan Cima (FY33) VQ25DD LX1998-2001£1,700-£3,100Direct injector cloggingVQ25DDPetrol 2.5L
- Nissan Cima (F50) VK45DE Limited2001-2010£2,300-£4,800Oil gallery pressure lossVK45DE-1Petrol 4.5L
- Nissan Cima (FY31) VH45DE LX1988-1991£1,800-£3,200Timing chain tensioner wearVH45DEPetrol 4.5L
Last updated: 31 May, 08:53
Customer Reviews
Trusted by Nissan Cima OwnersAcross the UK
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Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 1,081 verified customers who sourced reconditioned and used Nissan Cima engines through EngineMarket.
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“Got three quotes within an hour and chose the best deal easily. The whole process was quick, clear and stress-free.”
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“I wasn't sure what I needed, but they helped me identify the right engine and connected me with a trusted garage.”
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Thanks to EngineMarket, I saved over £1,200 on my engine replacement and got matched with a great local specialist within the hour.”
- Jimmy, London
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Models We Cover
Nissan Cima Engine ReplacementAll Variants Covered
Core VH45DE Range
Specs276hp
Years1988-2001
Rebuilt£1,800-£3,200
Late Model & Specialist Range
Variant Directory
All Nissan Cima Variants - Engine Replacement Coverage
A full alphabetical listing of every Nissan Cima trim covered by our network. All entries link to a dedicated variant page, where prices are further broken down by engine code, model year, and condition type. Click a live link to compare quotes.
Petrol Variants
FY31 LXFY31 GXFY31 LimitedFY32 LXFY32 GXFY32 LimitedFY33 LXFY33 GXFY33 LimitedFY33 Type SFY33 Type PF50 GXF50 LimitedF50 Type PF50 Type SHICAS Four-SteerRWD StandardJDM Grey Import Spec
Engine Codes
Nissan Cima Engine CodesFull Technical Specifications & Replacement Guide
Every engine code fitted to the Nissan Cima across all generations, with technical specs, compatible variants and trims, known failure points, and average rebuilt prices from UK specialists. Select any engine code to compare quotes.
Petrol Engines
Extracted from detailed petrol and performance engine families across Nissan Cima variants.
Can't find your engine code?
Can't find your engine code? Enter your registration number above - we'll instantly identify the exact unit, its technical specifications, and live replacement prices from UK Nissan Cima engine specialists. Every rebuilt engine comes with a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty.
Common Problems
Nissan Cima Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Every rebuilt engine includes a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
1. VH45DE Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Why Early Cima V8s Fail Prematurely
Affected Models
Nissan Cima LX, GX, Limited (FY31-FY33, 1988-2001, VH45DE)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-90,000 miles
Root Cause
Original hydraulic tensioners lose pressure over time, allowing chain slap that damages guides and can lead to catastrophic timing failure.
Repair Options & Estimated Costs (UK ranges)
| Repair Tier | Dealer Price | Specialist Price | What It Involves | Longevity / Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Minor - Preventative Tensioner Replacement Minor | £1,200 - £1,800 | £800 - £1,200 | Replace tensioners and guides before failure occurs | Viable only if caught early; prevents major damage |
Intermediate - Chain System Overhaul Intermediate | £2,500 - £3,800 | £1,600 - £2,400 | Full timing chain, guides, tensioners and seals replacement | Extends life 40k-60k miles if block is undamaged |
Full Replacement - Rebuilt VH45DE Engine Best Value | £4,500 - £6,200 | £1,800 - £3,800 | Supply & fit rebuilt engine with upgraded tensioners, bench tested, 12-month warranty | Best value for high-mileage or damaged units |
Our Recommendation
Best next step for vh45de timing chain tensioner failure
On a grey import Cima worth £8,000-£15,000, preventative tensioner replacement at 50k miles is smart. If you're hearing cold-start rattle above 70k miles, budget for full replacement - repair costs approach rebuild prices with no warranty.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Nissan Cima
The Nissan Cima is a rare grey import luxury sedan worth preserving. Whether you're dealing with VH45DE timing rattle, VQ30DET turbo issues, or VK45DE VVT-i faults, EngineMarket makes it simple to compare prices from trusted UK specialists who understand JDM imports. Every rebuilt engine includes upgraded components addressing the original failure point, bench testing, and a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty. Compare quotes today and get your Cima back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare Nissan Cima Engine Replacement Prices Now →Nissan Cima Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Affected Models
Nissan Cima LX, GX, Limited (FY31-FY33, 1988-2001, VH45DE)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-90,000 miles
Root Cause
Original hydraulic tensioners lose pressure over time, allowing chain slap that damages guides and can lead to catastrophic timing failure.
Minor - Preventative Tensioner Replacement
Dealer
£1,200 - £1,800
Specialist
£800 - £1,200
Replace tensioners and guides before failure occurs
Viable only if caught early; prevents major damage
Intermediate - Chain System Overhaul
Dealer
£2,500 - £3,800
Specialist
£1,600 - £2,400
Full timing chain, guides, tensioners and seals replacement
Extends life 40k-60k miles if block is undamaged
Full Replacement - Rebuilt VH45DE Engine
Dealer
£4,500 - £6,200
Specialist
£1,800 - £3,800
Supply & fit rebuilt engine with upgraded tensioners, bench tested, 12-month warranty
Best value for high-mileage or damaged units
Our Recommendation
Best next step for vh45de timing chain tensioner failure
On a grey import Cima worth £8,000-£15,000, preventative tensioner replacement at 50k miles is smart. If you're hearing cold-start rattle above 70k miles, budget for full replacement - repair costs approach rebuild prices with no warranty.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Nissan Cima
The Nissan Cima is a rare grey import luxury sedan worth preserving. Whether you're dealing with VH45DE timing rattle, VQ30DET turbo issues, or VK45DE VVT-i faults, EngineMarket makes it simple to compare prices from trusted UK specialists who understand JDM imports. Every rebuilt engine includes upgraded components addressing the original failure point, bench testing, and a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty. Compare quotes today and get your Cima back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare Nissan Cima Engine Replacement Prices Now →Disclaimer: All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EngineMarket's UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific Nissan Cima and engine code. Every engine supplied through EngineMarket carries a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier.
12-Month Warranty
Upgraded Components
Nationwide UK Delivery
Save vs Main Dealer Price
Replacement Engine Options
Nissan Cima Engine TypesOptions, Costs & What to Expect
Every Nissan Cima engine type is available through our UK network with typical price ranges based on variant, engine code and budget.
All engine types include a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty when sourced through EngineMarket. Prices are typical UK market ranges based on historical quote data from our network and depend on exact engine code, variant, mileage and supplier. Use our free comparison tool above - enter your registration to get tailored quotes for your specific Nissan Cima within hours.
Engine Sizes
Nissan Cima Engines by SizeFind the Right Displacement for Your Variant
Nissan Cima Petrol Engine Sizes
The VQ25DD direct injection V6 was the entry-level petrol option for FY33 Cima LX and GX variants, offering improved fuel economy for grey import daily use while maintaining Nissan's smooth V6 character.
| Engine Code(s) | VQ25DD |
| Compatible Models (UK) | FY33 LX, FY33 GX |
| Production Years | 1998-2001 |
Common Failure Points
Watch for these known weak points
Direct injector clogging from carbon buildup, fuel pressure regulator failure
Not sure which engine size your Nissan Cima needs? Enter your registration number above - we'll identify the exact displacement, engine code and compatible replacement options instantly. All engines supplied through EngineMarket include a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty from UK Nissan Cima specialists.
Fuel Type
Nissan Cima Engines by Fuel Type
Nissan Cima Petrol Engines
Nissan Cima Petrol Engines
All Nissan Cima models sold as UK grey imports feature petrol engines only, spanning naturally aspirated V8s, twin-turbo V6s and direct injection units across FY31-F50 generations.
Common Nissan Cima Petrol Engine Families
VH45DE - flagship 4.5L V8 (FY31-FY33), timing chain tensioner wear common
VK45DE - updated 4.5L VVT-i V8 (F50), solenoid and oil gallery issues
VQ30DET - twin-turbo 3.0L V6 (FY33 Type S), turbo actuator failures
VQ35DE - naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 (F50), timing guide wear on early units
VQ25DD - direct injection 2.5L V6 (FY33 economy), injector clogging risk
Found In
FY31 (1988-1991) - VH45DE
FY32 (1991-1996) - VH45DE
FY33 (1996-2001) - VH45DE, VQ30DET, VQ25DD
F50 (2001-2010) - VK45DE, VQ35DE
Known For
Smooth, refined power delivery across all petrol units
VH45DE timing chain tensioner wear between 60k-90k miles
VQ30DET turbo actuator failures on high-mileage Type S models
Strong enthusiast demand for grey import preservation and tuning
Typical Petrol Models
Cima LX
Cima GX
Cima Limited
Cima Type S
Cima Type P
Not sure which fuel type your Nissan Cima has? Enter your registration number above to instantly identify your engine code, fuel system and compatible replacement options - all backed by a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty from UK Nissan Cima specialists.
Engine Years
Nissan Cima Engines by YearWhat Was Fitted & When
This technical timeline covers all major Nissan Cima engine changes across FY31-F50 generations, organised so grey import owners can quickly identify their engine and compare rebuilt prices from UK specialists.
1988 - 1991 - FY31 Launch: VH45DE V8 Debut
Major Engine Change
The first-generation Cima launched with the smooth 4.5L VH45DE V8, establishing the model's luxury grey import appeal in the UK enthusiast market.
Key Changes
First-generation FY31 Cima introduced to Japanese market
VH45DE 4.5L DOHC V8 becomes flagship engine
Luxury features: air suspension, premium audio, leather interior
Right-hand drive configuration standard for UK grey imports
Known For
Exceptionally smooth V8 power delivery
Early hydraulic tensioner design prone to wear
High build quality justifying grey import preservation costs
Strong collector interest in well-maintained examples
Main Engines
VH45DE - 4.5L petrol (LX / GX / Limited)
Popular Models
Nissan Cima LX
Nissan Cima GX
Nissan Cima Limited
Engine Codes Covered
VH45DE
Common Replacement Enquiries
Nissan Cima VH45DE timing chain rattle
FY31 Cima engine replacement UK
VH45DE rebuilt engine grey import
Get quotes for 1988-1991 Nissan Cima replacement engines
1988 - 1991 - FY31 Launch: VH45DE V8 Debut
Major Engine Change
The first-generation Cima launched with the smooth 4.5L VH45DE V8, establishing the model's luxury grey import appeal in the UK enthusiast market.
Key Changes
First-generation FY31 Cima introduced to Japanese market
VH45DE 4.5L DOHC V8 becomes flagship engine
Luxury features: air suspension, premium audio, leather interior
Right-hand drive configuration standard for UK grey imports
Known For
Exceptionally smooth V8 power delivery
Early hydraulic tensioner design prone to wear
High build quality justifying grey import preservation costs
Strong collector interest in well-maintained examples
Main Engines
VH45DE - 4.5L petrol (LX / GX / Limited)
Engine Codes Covered
VH45DE
Popular Models
Nissan Cima LX
Nissan Cima GX
Nissan Cima Limited
Common Replacement Enquiries
Nissan Cima VH45DE timing chain rattle
FY31 Cima engine replacement UK
VH45DE rebuilt engine grey import
Get quotes for 1988-1991 Nissan Cima replacement engines
Year Finder
Not sure which year your Nissan Cima was built?
Not sure which year your Nissan Cima was built? Enter your registration number and we'll identify the exact engine, model year, and compatible replacement options instantly - all backed by a minimum 12‑month warranty from UK Nissan Cima specialists.
FAQ
Nissan Cima Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1
How much does a Nissan Cima engine replacement cost in the UK?
Nissan Cima engine replacement costs range from £1,700 for a used VQ25DD to £5,200 for a rebuilt VQ30DET twin-turbo, depending on engine code, condition and supplier. Supply & fit adds £800-£1,800.
Key points
- • VH45DE rebuilt: £1,800-£3,800 supply only
- • VQ30DET turbo rebuilt: £2,200-£5,200 supply only
- • Used engines from £1,200, shorter warranty typical
- • Supply & fit labour adds £800-£1,800 depending on location
Question 2
Which Nissan Cima engine is most reliable for grey import preservation?
The late-model VH45DE-2 (1996+) and VK45DE-1 (2006+) show improved reliability over early units, with upgraded tensioners and VVT-i components reducing common failure risks for UK grey import owners.
Key points
- • VH45DE-2 has revised timing tensioners vs early VH45DE
- • VK45DE-1 VVT-i solenoids more robust than early VK45DE
- • VQ35DE naturally aspirated simpler than turbo VQ30DET
- • Regular oil changes critical for all Cima petrol engines
Question 3
What causes VH45DE timing chain rattle on Nissan Cima?
VH45DE timing chain rattle stems from hydraulic tensioner wear allowing chain slack, typically appearing 60k-90k miles. Ignoring it risks guide damage, timing jump and catastrophic engine failure.
Key points
- • Cold-start rattle is classic VH45DE tensioner symptom
- • Upgraded tensioner kits available for preventative replacement
- • Chain/guide damage requires full engine rebuild or replacement
- • Rebuilt VH45DE with upgraded tensioners includes 12-month warranty
Question 4
Is a reconditioned Nissan Cima engine reliable for grey imports?
Yes, when sourced from UK specialists experienced with JDM imports. Reconditioned Cima engines include new seals, gaskets and wear items, bench testing and a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty for peace of mind.
Key points
- • Reconditioning addresses known failure points like tensioners
- • Bench testing verifies performance before dispatch
- • 12-month unlimited mileage warranty standard on network engines
- • Specialists handle grey import documentation and ECU adaptation
Question 5
Can I upgrade my Nissan Cima to a newer engine specification?
Engine swaps like VH45DE to VK45DE are technically possible but complex, requiring ECU, wiring harness and mounting modifications. For most grey import owners, replacing like-for-like with upgraded components is more cost-effective and IVA-compliant.
Key points
- • VH45DE to VK45DE swap needs ECU, harness, mount changes
- • IVA test may require engineering assessment for modified imports
- • Like-for-like rebuilt engines simplify registration and insurance
- • Consult UK JDM specialists before planning any engine conversion
Question 6
How long does Nissan Cima engine delivery take in the UK?
Most rebuilt Nissan Cima engines are dispatched within 3-5 working days after order confirmation. Used engines from Japanese stock may take 7-14 days for shipping and UK customs clearance for grey import projects.
Key points
- • Rebuilt engines: 3-5 days typical dispatch from UK specialists
- • Used JDM engines: 7-14 days including shipping and customs
- • Supply & fit bookings may add 1-2 weeks for workshop scheduling
- • Nationwide delivery included; white-glove installation available
Question 7
What warranty comes with Nissan Cima replacement engines?
All rebuilt and reconditioned Nissan Cima engines supplied through EngineMarket include a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty. Used engines typically carry 3-6 month coverage; confirm terms with your chosen supplier.
Key points
- • 12-month unlimited mileage standard on rebuilt/recon units
- • Warranty covers parts and labour at network specialists
- • Used engine warranties shorter; verify coverage before purchase
- • Keep service records to maintain warranty validity
Question 8
Do Nissan Cima engines need special oil or maintenance?
VH45DE and VK45DE V8s perform best with high-quality 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic oil changed every 5,000 miles. VQ series engines similarly benefit from synthetic oil and regular timing component inspection.
Key points
- • Use API SN or ACEA A3/B4 fully synthetic oil
- • 5,000-mile oil change intervals recommended for grey imports
- • Inspect timing components at 50k miles on VH45DE units
- • VVT-i solenoids on VK45DE need clean oil to prevent sticking
Question 9
Will a replacement Nissan Cima engine pass UK MOT and IVA?
Yes, provided the replacement engine matches the original specification or is an approved variant. UK specialists supply documentation including engine codes, emissions compliance and DVLA notification support for grey import registration.
Key points
- • Like-for-like engine replacements simplify MOT and IVA compliance
- • Specialists provide engine code documentation for DVLA updates
- • Emissions testing requires catalytic converters and O2 sensors intact
- • IVA test may need engineering report for modified grey imports
Question 10
How do I know which Nissan Cima engine code I need?
Enter your registration or VIN above for instant DVLA verification of your exact Cima variant, engine code and fuel type. Alternatively, check the engine stamp on the block or consult your Japanese export documentation.
Key points
- • DVLA lookup via registration confirms variant and engine code
- • Engine stamp locations: VH45DE front block, VQ series intake manifold
- • Japanese export certificates list original engine specification
- • UK JDM specialists can verify compatibility before dispatch
Why Choose Us
Why UK Nissan Cima Owners Trust EngineMarket
Find the best Nissan Cima engine replacement near you
Compare engine prices for Nissan Cima in the UK and get competitive quotes from garages near you.
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Warranty-backed rebuilt & used options
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