When in 2007 Nissan introduced to the world GT-R R35 (internal designation CBA-R35), car enthusiasts were shocked: the Japanese manufacturer brought back to life the legend of the 90s, but in the format of a supercar with technology Formula 1. This car, nicknamed "Godzilla" for its power and aggressive nature, became the first production Nissan, capable of competing on equal terms with Porsche 911 Turbo And Audi R8 — at the same time it cost almost half as much. Today, after 15+ years, R35 remains one of the most sought-after Japanese sports cars on the secondary market, but purchasing one requires a deep understanding of the design and typical problems.

In this article we will look at 35th GT-R body from all sides: from the engine architecture VR38DETT to the nuances of the transmission GR6, from factory “diseases” to tuning prospects. You'll find out why after 2017, Nissan stopped officially selling the R35 in Europe due to Euro 6 regulations, how to recognize a “killed” specimen by indirect signs, and why some owners refuse the standard system ATTESA E-TS in favor of a mechanical locking differential. The material will be useful to both beginners and experienced owners planning modifications.

Technical characteristics of the Nissan GT-R R35: engine, transmission, suspension

With my heart GT-R R35 is 3.8 liter twin-turbo VR38DETT engine - the world's first serial engine with plasma spraying of cylinders instead of traditional sleeves. This technology, which reduced weight and improved heat dissipation, became both an advantage and a source of problems. Depending on the year of manufacture and the sales market, the power varied from 480 hp (early Japanese models) up to 600 hp (special versions Nismo And Track Edition).

Torque in 632 Nm transmitted to all four wheels via 6-speed robotic gearbox GR6 with dual clutch, developed in conjunction with BorgWarner. Transmission feature: all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All-Terrain), which in normal mode sends up to 100% of the torque to the rear wheels, and when slipping connects the front axle. In sport mode the distribution is fixed in proportion 35:65 (front:back).

  • 🔧 Engine: VR38DETT, V6, 3799 cm³, biturbo (IHI), compression ratio 9.0:1
  • 🚀 Transmission: GR6 (6th grade robot), ATTESA E-TS (all-wheel drive with electronic control)
  • 🏁 Suspension: independent multi-link (front/rear), adaptive shock absorbers Bilstein (optional)
  • ⚡ Electronics: stability control system VDC, engine start button, multimedia system with hard drive

Suspension R35 is built on the basis of aluminum arms and anti-roll bars, and in versions Nismo And Track Edition forged wheels are used RAYS and brake discs of increased diameter (410 mm front). It is important to note that despite the sporting orientation, GT-R remains a heavy car: the mass is 1740–1800 kg depending on the configuration.

📊 Which engine do you consider more legendary?
  • Nissan VR38DETT (GT-R R35)
  • Toyota 2JZ-GTE (Supra)
  • Mitsubishi 4G63T (Evo)
  • Honda B18C (Type R)
  • Other

Evolution of the model range: how do the R35 generations differ (2007–2026)

Nissan GT-R R35 was produced from 2007 to 2026, and during this time the car underwent several significant updates. The first models (2007–2010) suffered from crude transmission firmware and problems with turbine reliability, but already in 2011 a modification appeared MY11 with a modified cooling system and increased power up to 530 hp. The most noticeable changes occurred in 2017, when Nissan presented updated version with second generation VR38DETT engine:

Years of manufacture Power (hp) Key changes Typical problems
2007–2010 480–485 Debut version, “raw” gearbox firmware, weak IHI turbines Transmission overheating, turbine seal leaks, problems with oxygen sensors
2011–2016 530–550 Updated cooling, modified turbines, new gearbox firmware Clutch wear, cracks in the exhaust manifold, problems with turbine bearings
2017–2020 570–600 New VR38DETT Gen2 engine, titanium exhaust system (Nismo), improved aerodynamics Problems with the injection system (high pressure pump), oil leaks from under the valve cover
2021–2026 570–600 Special versions T-spec And Nismo Special Edition, lightweight suspension Problems with electronics (touch buttons), worn wheel bearings

Special versions stand out: Nismo (2014–2021) with power 600 hp and a lightweight body, Track Edition (2018–2026) with upgraded brakes Brembo and forged wheels RAYS,

and also limited edition T-spec (2021-2023) with unique interior trim and gold wheel bolts.

Upon purchase R35 critical to check VIN code for market compliance: for example, American versions (USDM) have more “stuffy” gearbox firmware than Japanese ones (JDM), and European models after 2017 were equipped with particulate filters (DPF), which are often removed during tuning.

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2017+ models with the VR38DETT Gen2 engine are considered the most reliable, but their repair costs are 30-40% more expensive due to the use of titanium parts.

Weaknesses and typical problems of the Nissan GT-R R35

Despite its legendary status, GT-R R35 - a car with a number of design flaws that manifest themselves during active use or insufficient maintenance. The main “disease” is transmission overheating, especially in traffic jams or on the track. Robotic gearbox GR6 requires oil changes every 60,000 km (in difficult conditions - 30,000 km), otherwise the risk of failure of the clutch or mechatronics increases significantly.

Another common problem is IHI turbines. On early models they failed already by 80,000–100,000 km, and in later years (2017+) - to 120,000 km. Signs of malfunction:

excessive oil consumption (1–2 l per 1000 km),

blue smoke from the exhaust pipe,

extraneous noise during acceleration.

Also often break oxygen sensors (especially bank 1 and 2), which leads to errors P0130–P0161 and the engine goes into emergency mode.

  • ⚠️ Transmission: leakage of drive shaft seals, wear of 1st and 2nd gear synchronizers
  • ⚠️ Engine: cracks in the exhaust manifold (especially on models before 2016), wear on the timing chain
  • ⚠️ Suspension: rapid wear of silent blocks of rear levers, leakage of shock absorbers
  • ⚠️ Electronics: malfunctions of the multimedia system, problems with ABS sensors
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase GT-R R35 with over mileage 50,000 km be sure to check the condition of the turbines with an endoscope - even if there are no external signs of malfunction, the blades could be deformed from overheating. The cost of replacing one turbine with work starts from 150 000 ₽.

Another critical point - cooling system. Radiators GT-R often become clogged, and the pump can fail without warning. Owners recommend installing an additional radiator for the gearbox and changing antifreeze every 2 years (regardless of mileage). Also on models before 2017 there are problems with fuel injectors, which begin to “pour” after 100,000 km.

How to check turbines without disassembly?

Start the engine and let it warm up to operating temperature. Then ask the assistant to sharply press the gas to 4000–5000 rpm, mientras you listen to the sound from under the hood. A characteristic “whistle” or “grinding” when revving up is a sign of wear on the turbine bearings. Also pay attention to the color of the smoke: blue indicates oil combustion, white indicates antifreeze entering the combustion chambers.

Tuning Nissan GT-R R35: from chip tuning to engine swap

GT-R R35 - one of the most tuneable Japanese cars, but modifications require caution. Most popular destinations:

  1. Chip tuning (ECU flashing): allows you to increase power up to 600–700 hp on stock turbines, but requires updating the fuel system (injectors ID1000, pump Walbro 450).
  2. Replacing turbines: kits GReddy or HKS increase power to 800–1000 hp, but reduce engine life to 50,000 km.
  3. Transmission reinforcement: ceramic clutch installation Spec or lockable differential Cusco for track races.
  4. Swap engine: some enthusiasts replace VR38DETT on RB26DETT (from Skyline GT-R R32) or even 2JZ-GTE (from Toyota Supra), but this requires a complete rework of the wiring and fastenings.

The most budget and effective tuning - removal of catalysts and installation of direct flow. This adds 30–50 hp and improves the sound, but may cause an error P0420 (low catalyst efficiency), which is solved by flashing or decoying lambda probes. For serious modifications (over 700 hp) necessarily strengthen cylinder block (installation of reinforcement or lining) and modernize cooling system (additional radiators, aluminum intercooler).

Check the compression in the cylinders (should be at least 120 psi)

Change oil in gearbox and differentials

Install additional oil pressure and turbine temperature sensors

Check the condition of the fuel lines (for cracks)

Update ECU firmware to the latest version (for models before 2016)-->

One of the most controversial tunings is replacing the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS to a mechanical locking differential. This improves handling on the track, but makes the car less predictable in everyday driving. Alternative - installing a controller Stillen or AMS, which allows you to manually adjust the torque distribution between the axles.

⚠️ Attention: When tuning GT-R R35 to the level 800+ hp standard gearbox GR6 can withstand no more 20,000 km even with increased traction. For durability, it is recommended to install a sequential box Holt or PPG, but its cost starts from 1 500 000 ₽.

Operation and Maintenance: How to Extend the Life of Godzilla

Service Nissan GT-R R35 - an expensive pleasure, but saving on it leads to major repairs. Here are the key recommendations:

  • 🛢️ Engine oil: change every 5,000 km (even if the manufacturer specifies 10,000 km). Use only synthetics 5W-40 or 0W-40 (For example, Motul 300V or Liqui Moly Leichtlauf).
  • ⚙️ Transmission oil: replacement every 60,000 km (in the gearbox, transfer case and differentials). For GR6 suitable only Nissan Matic S or Red Line D6.
  • 🔥 Turbines: After active driving, let the engine idle 1–2 minutes for cooling turbines. Use oil additives (e.g. Liqui Moly Turbo Schutz).
  • 🔋 Battery: original AGM- the battery lasts no more than 3–4 years. When replacing, choose models with a starting current of at least 700 A.

Particular attention should be paid cooling system. Radiators GT-R prone to clogging, so once every 2 years they need to be washed with special compounds (for example, Wynns Radiator Flush). It is also recommended to install an additional radiator for the gearbox (for example, Setrab) and a thermostat with a lower opening temperature (71°C instead of regular ones 82°C).

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Before driving the GT-R R35 for a long time, always check the gearbox oil level through the inspection hole (located to the right of the transfer case). If the oil smells like burning or has metal particles, contact service immediately.

No less important electronics diagnostics. Multimedia system GT-R often “glitches” due to overheating of the hard drive (on which the navigation map is stored). The solution is to replace the HDD with an SSD or transfer the cards to a flash drive. Also periodically check for errors via the diagnostic connector. OBD-II (especially codes P0300–P0306, indicating misfire).

Cost of ownership: how much does it cost to own a GT-R R35 in 2026

Purchase Nissan GT-R R35 - just the beginning of the expenses. The average cost of maintenance in Russia is 300,000–500,000 ₽/year, depending on mileage and driving style. Here are the main expense items:

Type of expenses Cost (₽) Frequency
Insurance (CASCO + OSAGO) 150 000–250 000 Annually
Maintenance (oils, filters, diagnostics) 80 000–120 000 Every 10,000 km
Tires (summer/winter) 200 000–350 000 Every 2–3 seasons
Brake pads and discs 100 000–200 000 Every 30,000–50,000 km
Turbine/engine repair (with mileage 100,000+ km) 300 000–1 000 000 According to condition

The most expensive spare parts - turbines (200 000–400 000 ₽ per set), clutch (150 000–300 000 ₽) and gearbox control unit (250 000–500 000 ₽). Also high prices for original body parts: for example, the front bumper costs 100 000–150 000 ₽, and the hood - 80 000–120 000 ₽. On the secondary market you can find contract spare parts from Japan, but the risk of running into “dead” parts is high.

The cost of the car itself on the secondary market in 2026: 3 500 000–5 000 000 ₽ for used copies of 2007–2012 80,000–120,000 km, 5 000 000–8 000 000 ₽ for cars 2013–2016, 8 000 000–12 000 000 ₽ for later versions (Nismo, Track Edition) with mileage up to 30,000 km.

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Buying a GT-R R35 with over 100,000 km on the clock and no service history is a lottery. In 70% of cases, such machines require major repairs of the engine or gearbox during the first year of operation.

GT-R R35 on the track: preparation for racing and restrictions

Nissan GT-R R35 It was created as a track car, but for serious racing it needs to be modified. The main problem on the circle is overheating of brakes and transmission. Even in the version Nismo standard brake discs (380 mm front) can withstand no more than 3–4 laps at high speed. The solution is to install kits Brembo GT or Endless with disks 410 mm and multi-piston calipers.

To improve handling, owners install: safety cage (required to participate in official races), forged wheels (For example, RAYS TE37 or WedsSport TC105X), adjustable stabilizers (Cusco or Whiteline), sports tires (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 or Yokohama Advan A052).

It is also recommended to replace the standard shock absorbers with adjustable ones (Tein, KW or Ohlins) and install additional stiffening struts (for example, Stillen).

Optimal tire pressure for track: 2.0–2.2 bar front and 1.8–2.0 bar behind. Before arrival you also need to:

Warm up the oil in the gearbox and differentials (drive 5–10 km in gentle mode)

Check the brake fluid level (should be DOT 4 or DOT 5.1)

Disable the VDC system (button next to the gear selector)

Make sure tire pressure matches track settings

Refuel with fuel with an octane rating of at least 98 (preferably 100+)-->

On most tracks GT-R R35 shows lap time at level Porsche 911 GT3 (for example, on Nürburgring - about 7:20–7:30), but it requires an experienced pilot and proper setup. The main disadvantage is weight, which affects braking and cornering. To compensate for this, some owners install carbon fiber hood and trunk lid, which allows you to save up to 20–30 kg.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan GT-R R35

Is it possible to operate the GT-R R35 on 92 gasoline?

No, absolutely not. Engine VR38DETT designed for gasoline with an octane rating of at least 98. Usage 92 or 95 will lead to detonation, damage to pistons and turbines. As a last resort, short-term driving is allowed. 95 with an octane corrector (for example, Liqui Moly Oktan Plus), but this is not recommended for continuous use.

How often should you change spark plugs?

Spark plugs (NGK PLFR7A-11 or Denso IFR7J11) it is recommended to change every 30,000–40,000 km. During active driving or tuning, the interval is reduced to 20,000 km. Signs of spark plug wear: misfires (errors P0300–P0306), unstable idling, loss of power.

What to do if the GT-R R35 gearbox starts to “kick”?

Jerks and delays when shifting gears are usually associated with:

  • clutch wear (replacement of discs required),
  • malfunction of mechatronics (gearbox control unit),
  • low oil level in the transmission,
  • failures in the firmware (solved by flashing the firmware or resetting the adaptations).

First of all, check the gearbox oil and reset the adaptations via a diagnostic scanner (for example, Consult III+ or Launch X431).

How long do the turbines on the GT-R R35 last?

Service life of standard turbines IHI is: 80,000–100,000 km for models 2007–2016, 120,000–150,000 km for 2017+ models with engine VR38DETT Gen2.

When driving aggressively or tuning, the resource is reduced to 50,000–70,000 km. Signs of wear: loss of power, blue smoke from the exhaust, whistling when revving up.

Is it possible to install winter tires on the GT-R R35?

Technically possible, but not recommended. GT-R R35 - a rear-wheel drive car with plug-in all-wheel drive, and its system ATTESA E-TS not optimized for