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NISSAN JDM ENGINE MARKETPLACE
Nissan Leopard Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Save
Get quotes today from trusted UK Nissan Leopard engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines - supply & fit available nationwide.
Leopard RB20DET Turbo Engines - from £1,800 to £4,500
-> Rebuilt units from £1,800 · Common codes: RB20DET, RB20E, RB20DE, RB20DET-R
Leopard VG30 V6 Engines - from £1,200 to £3,200
-> Rebuilt units from £1,200 · Common codes: VG30E, VG30DE, VG30DET, VG20E
Leopard VQ Series Engines - from £1,500 to £3,800
-> Rebuilt units from £1,500 · Common codes: VQ25DE, VQ30DE, VQ30DD
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● Instant Quotes · No Obligation · 100% Free · Reconditioned · Rebuilt · Used · Supply & Fit Available · UK-Wide Network|● Instant Quotes · No Obligation · 100% Free · Reconditioned · Rebuilt · Used · Supply & Fit Available · UK-Wide Network|● Instant Quotes · No Obligation · 100% Free · Reconditioned · Rebuilt · Used · Supply & Fit Available · UK-Wide Network|● Instant Quotes · No Obligation · 100% Free · Reconditioned · Rebuilt · Used · Supply & Fit Available · UK-Wide Network|
How It Works
3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard Engine Replacement?
The table below shows typical UK rebuilt engine costs across Nissan Leopard variants - compare failure causes, engine codes, fuel types, and price ranges to benchmark what UK drivers are paying for these rare JDM engines.
Average Market Prices
- Nissan Leopard (F31) VG30E 3.0L V61986-1992£1,200-£3,200Timing belt snapVG30EPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Leopard (F31) VG30DE 3.0L V61988-1992£1,400-£3,400Valve cover gasket leakVG30DEPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Leopard (F31) VG30DET 3.0L Turbo1988-1991£2,200-£5,500Turbo bearing wearVG30DETPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Leopard (Y33) VQ25DE 2.5L V61996-1999£1,500-£3,600Timing chain tensionerVQ25DEPetrol 2.5L
- Nissan Leopard (Y33) VQ30DE 3.0L V61996-1999£1,600-£3,800Timing chain rattleVQ30DEPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Leopard (Y33) VQ30DD 3.0L DI1997-1999£1,800-£4,200Direct injection faultVQ30DDPetrol 3.0L
- Nissan Leopard (F31) VG20DET 2.0L V6 Turbo1988-1992£2,000-£5,000V6 turbo failureVG20DETPetrol 2.0L
- Nissan Leopard (F31) RB20DET 2.0L Turbo1987-1992£1,800-£4,500Turbo oil seal failureRB20DETPetrol 2.0L
Last updated: 31 May, 08:53
Customer Reviews
Trusted by Nissan Leopard OwnersAcross the UK
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Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 1,081 verified customers who sourced reconditioned and used Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard Engine ReplacementAll Variants Covered
F31 Turbo Performance Range
Specs210hp
Years1987-1992
Rebuilt£1,800-£4,500
F31 Standard V6 Range
Y33 Luxury V6 Range
Variant Directory
All Nissan Leopard Variants - Engine Replacement Coverage
A full alphabetical listing of every Nissan Leopard 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
F31 BaseF31 J. Ferraz EditionF31 RB20EF31 RB20DETF31 UltimaF31 VG20DETF31 VG20EF31 VG30DEF31 VG30DETF31 VG30EInfiniti M30Y33 VQ25DEY33 VQ30DDY33 VQ30DEY33 VG20E
Engine Codes
Nissan Leopard Engine CodesFull Technical Specifications & Replacement Guide
Every engine code fitted to the Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard 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 Leopard engine specialists. Every rebuilt engine comes with a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
Common Problems
Nissan Leopard Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Every rebuilt engine includes a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
1. VG30E/VG30DE Timing Belt Failure
Why Leopard V6 Engines Fail Catastrophically
Affected Models
Nissan Leopard F31 VG30E, VG30DE (1986-1992, VG30E & VG30DE)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-90,000 miles if belt not replaced preventatively
Root Cause
Interference engine design means snapped timing belt causes valves to strike pistons, destroying cylinder head and often the block.
Repair Options & Estimated Costs (UK ranges)
| Repair Tier | Dealer Price | Specialist Price | What It Involves | Longevity / Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Minor - Preventative Belt Replacement Minor | £800 - £1,400 | £500 - £900 | Timing belt, tensioner, water pump replacement before failure | Prevents catastrophic damage; recommended every 60k miles |
Intermediate - Cylinder Head Repair Intermediate | £2,500 - £4,200 | £1,600 - £2,800 | Valve replacement, head resurfacing, gasket set after belt snap | Viable only if block undamaged; labour-intensive |
Full Replacement - Rebuilt / Reconditioned Engine Best Value | £4,500 - £7,500 | £1,200 - £3,400 | Supply & fit rebuilt VG30 engine with upgraded components | Most cost-effective solution post-catastrophic failure |
Our Recommendation
Best next step for vg30e/vg30de timing belt failure
On a Nissan Leopard worth £3,000-£8,000, preventative timing belt replacement is essential. If the belt has snapped, a rebuilt engine from our network offers better value than dealer cylinder head repair.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Nissan Leopard
The Nissan Leopard's enthusiast appeal means owners invest in keeping these rare JDM engines running. EngineMarket makes it simple to compare prices from trusted UK specialists who understand RB, VG and VQ platform nuances. Every rebuilt engine includes upgraded components addressing known failure points, plus a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty and nationwide delivery. Compare prices and get back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare Nissan Leopard Engine Replacement Prices Now →Nissan Leopard Engine Problems
What It Costs to Fix & When Replacement Makes Sense
Affected Models
Nissan Leopard F31 VG30E, VG30DE (1986-1992, VG30E & VG30DE)
Typical Failure Mileage
60,000-90,000 miles if belt not replaced preventatively
Root Cause
Interference engine design means snapped timing belt causes valves to strike pistons, destroying cylinder head and often the block.
Minor - Preventative Belt Replacement
Dealer
£800 - £1,400
Specialist
£500 - £900
Timing belt, tensioner, water pump replacement before failure
Prevents catastrophic damage; recommended every 60k miles
Intermediate - Cylinder Head Repair
Dealer
£2,500 - £4,200
Specialist
£1,600 - £2,800
Valve replacement, head resurfacing, gasket set after belt snap
Viable only if block undamaged; labour-intensive
Full Replacement - Rebuilt / Reconditioned Engine
Dealer
£4,500 - £7,500
Specialist
£1,200 - £3,400
Supply & fit rebuilt VG30 engine with upgraded components
Most cost-effective solution post-catastrophic failure
Our Recommendation
Best next step for vg30e/vg30de timing belt failure
On a Nissan Leopard worth £3,000-£8,000, preventative timing belt replacement is essential. If the belt has snapped, a rebuilt engine from our network offers better value than dealer cylinder head repair.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Nissan Leopard
The Nissan Leopard's enthusiast appeal means owners invest in keeping these rare JDM engines running. EngineMarket makes it simple to compare prices from trusted UK specialists who understand RB, VG and VQ platform nuances. Every rebuilt engine includes upgraded components addressing known failure points, plus a minimum 12‑month unlimited mileage warranty and nationwide delivery. Compare prices and get back on the road without the main dealer premium.
Compare Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard 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 Leopard Engine TypesOptions, Costs & What to Expect
Every Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard within hours.
Engine Sizes
Nissan Leopard Engines by SizeFind the Right Displacement for Your Variant
Nissan Leopard Petrol Engine Sizes
The 2.0L petrol engines powered the entry-level and performance F31 Leopard variants, featuring Nissan's RB and VG families with both naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations for different driving priorities.
| Engine Code(s) | RB20E, RB20DET, VG20E, VG20DET |
| Compatible Models (UK) | F31 Base (1986-1992), F31 Ultima Turbo (1988-1992), F31 VG20 Trim |
| Production Years | 1988-1992 |
Common Failure Points
Watch for these known weak points
RB20DET turbo oil starvation; VG20 timing belt wear on interference design
Not sure which engine size your Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard specialists.
Fuel Type
Nissan Leopard Engines by Fuel Type
Nissan Leopard Petrol Engines
Nissan Leopard Petrol Engines
All Nissan Leopard engines were petrol-only, spanning naturally aspirated and turbocharged RB, VG and VQ families across F31 (1986-1992) and Y33 (1996-1999) generations.
Common Nissan Leopard Petrol Engine Families
RB20DET - 2.0L turbo (F31 performance), Skyline R31 shared platform, oil starvation risk
VG30E/VG30DE - 3.0L V6 SOHC/DOHC (F31), interference design, timing belt critical
VQ30DE/VQ30DD - 3.0L V6 (Y33), chain-driven, tensioner wear common
Found In
F31 Coupe/Saloon (1986-1992) - RB20, VG20, VG30 families
Y33/JY33 Saloon (1996-1999) - VQ25, VQ30 families
Infiniti M30 Export (1990-1992) - VG30E only
Known For
RB20DET: Enthusiast favourite, turbo reliability depends on oil maintenance
VG30: Interference engine - timing belt failure destroys valves/pistons
VQ30: Generally reliable but chain tensioners wear at high mileage
Typical Petrol Models
F31 RB20DET Turbo
F31 VG30DE DOHC
Y33 VQ30DE
Y33 VQ30DD Direct Injection
Infiniti M30 VG30E
Not sure which fuel type your Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard specialists.
Engine Years
Nissan Leopard Engines by YearWhat Was Fitted & When
This section covers all major engine changes across the Nissan Leopard's production timeline, organised so owners can quickly identify their engine and compare rebuilt engine prices from UK specialists.
1986 - F31 Launch: VG30E Debut
Major Engine Change
The Leopard launched with the VG30E 3.0L SOHC V6, establishing the foundation for the F31 generation's engine lineup.
Key Changes
F31 chassis introduced with rear-wheel drive layout
VG30E 3.0L V6 becomes standard engine
Platform sharing with Skyline R31 and Laurel C32 confirmed
Known For
Smooth V6 character but requires strict timing belt maintenance
Interference engine design means belt failure is catastrophic
Strong donor compatibility with Skyline R31 for parts
Main Engines
VG30E - 3.0L petrol (Base F31, Infiniti M30)
Popular Models
Nissan Leopard F31 Base
Nissan Leopard F31 Standard V6
Infiniti M30 (US Export)
Engine Codes Covered
VG30E
Common Replacement Enquiries
Nissan Leopard VG30E timing belt
F31 3.0 engine replacement
Infiniti M30 engine UK
Get quotes for 1986 Nissan Leopard replacement engines
1986 - F31 Launch: VG30E Debut
Major Engine Change
The Leopard launched with the VG30E 3.0L SOHC V6, establishing the foundation for the F31 generation's engine lineup.
Key Changes
F31 chassis introduced with rear-wheel drive layout
VG30E 3.0L V6 becomes standard engine
Platform sharing with Skyline R31 and Laurel C32 confirmed
Known For
Smooth V6 character but requires strict timing belt maintenance
Interference engine design means belt failure is catastrophic
Strong donor compatibility with Skyline R31 for parts
Main Engines
VG30E - 3.0L petrol (Base F31, Infiniti M30)
Engine Codes Covered
VG30E
Popular Models
Nissan Leopard F31 Base
Nissan Leopard F31 Standard V6
Infiniti M30 (US Export)
Common Replacement Enquiries
Nissan Leopard VG30E timing belt
F31 3.0 engine replacement
Infiniti M30 engine UK
Get quotes for 1986 Nissan Leopard replacement engines
Year Finder
Not sure which year your Nissan Leopard was built?
Not sure which year your Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard specialists.
FAQ
Nissan Leopard Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1
Will a Nissan Skyline R31 RB20DET fit my Leopard F31?
Yes, the RB20DET from Skyline R31 is a direct fit for F31 Leopard as both share the same platform and engine mounting points. This makes Skyline donors a cost-effective source for Leopard RB20DET replacements.
Key points
- • F31 Leopard and Skyline R31 share chassis architecture
- • RB20DET mounting points, ECU and wiring are compatible
- • Always verify engine code matches your Leopard's original spec
- • Laurel C32 and Cefiro A31 also share this platform
Question 2
How much does it cost to replace a Nissan Leopard engine in the UK?
Rebuilt Nissan Leopard engines typically range from £1,200 for base VG30E units to £5,500 for rare turbo variants like the VG30DET, with supply-only pricing; fitted costs add £800-£2,200 depending on workshop.
Key points
- • RB20DET rebuilt: £1,800-£4,500 supply only
- • VG30 series rebuilt: £1,200-£3,400 supply only
- • VQ series rebuilt: £1,500-£4,200 supply only
- • Supply & fit adds £800-£2,200 labour depending on complexity
Question 3
What is the difference between VG30E and VG30DE engines?
VG30E is a SOHC 3.0L V6 producing 160-180hp, while VG30DE is a DOHC version delivering 185-230hp; both are interference engines requiring strict timing belt maintenance to avoid catastrophic failure.
Key points
- • VG30E: Single overhead cam, simpler, lower output
- • VG30DE: Dual overhead cam, higher revving, more power
- • Both use same block but different cylinder heads and valvetrain
- • Timing belt replacement interval: every 60,000 miles for both
Question 4
Is the Nissan RB20DET an interference engine?
Yes, the RB20DET is an interference engine, meaning a snapped timing belt will cause valves to strike pistons, potentially destroying the cylinder head and requiring full engine replacement.
Key points
- • Interference design demands preventative belt replacement
- • Recommended belt change interval: 60,000 miles or 5 years
- • Always replace tensioner and water pump during belt service
- • Keep records of belt changes for resale and warranty purposes
Question 5
What is the engine code for my Nissan Leopard?
Your Leopard's engine code is stamped on the block near the cylinder head; common codes include RB20DET (2.0 turbo), VG30E (3.0 SOHC), VG30DE (3.0 DOHC), and VQ30DE (Y33 3.0 V6).
Key points
- • Check engine bay sticker or VIN decoder for code confirmation
- • F31 models use RB or VG codes; Y33 models use VQ codes
- • Engine code determines compatible replacement options
- • Provide code when requesting quotes to ensure correct fitment
Question 6
Can I fit an RB25DET into a Leopard F31 as an upgrade?
Yes, the RB25DET from R33/R34 Skyline can be swapped into an F31 Leopard with custom mounts and ECU adaptation, offering a popular performance upgrade over the stock RB20DET.
Key points
- • RB25DET shares architecture with RB20DET but has 2.5L displacement
- • Requires custom engine mounts and wiring harness adaptation
- • ECU remap essential for reliable operation post-swap
- • Budget £3,000-£6,000 for professional conversion including labour
Question 7
Are Nissan Leopard and Infiniti M30 engines interchangeable?
Yes, the Infiniti M30's VG30E engine is identical to the F31 Leopard VG30E, making M30 donors a viable and often more available source for Leopard engine replacements in the UK.
Key points
- • M30 VG30E shares block, heads and ancillaries with Leopard VG30E
- • ECU and wiring may require minor adaptation for Leopard chassis
- • M30 engines often more readily available in UK breaker yards
- • Always verify compression and service history before purchase
Question 8
What causes VG30DE oil leaks on Nissan Leopard?
VG30DE oil leaks typically stem from age-hardened valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals or the rear main seal; while not immediately catastrophic, chronic leaks can lead to low oil levels and bearing damage.
Key points
- • Valve cover gaskets harden and crack after 80k+ miles
- • Rear main seal replacement requires gearbox removal
- • Monitor oil level weekly if leaks are present
- • Address leaks early to avoid costly bearing damage from oil starvation
Question 9
What warranty comes with reconditioned Nissan Leopard engines?
Reconditioned Nissan Leopard engines supplied through EngineMarket include a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty covering parts and labour for defects in materials or workmanship.
Key points
- • Warranty valid at any UK specialist within our network
- • Covers internal components, seals and gaskets against failure
- • Does not cover damage from improper installation or maintenance
- • Always retain invoice and warranty documentation for claims
Question 10
Where can I buy a Nissan Leopard engine in the UK?
EngineMarket connects you with vetted UK specialists who source and supply Nissan Leopard engines, including JDM import experts familiar with RB, VG and VQ families for F31 and Y33 models.
Key points
- • Specialists understand JDM engine import regulations and documentation
- • Network includes fitters experienced with Leopard chassis specifics
- • Compare multiple quotes to find best value for your engine code
- • All suppliers provide minimum 12-month warranty on rebuilt units
Why Choose Us
Why UK Nissan Leopard Owners Trust EngineMarket
Find the best Nissan Leopard engine replacement near you
Compare engine prices for Nissan Leopard in the UK and get competitive quotes from garages near you.
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