Nissan Skyline R29 - this is not just a car, but a legend of the Japanese automobile industry, which became a bridge between the classic “Skylines” and modern sedans Infiniti. Released in 2001 as part of the 11th generation (V35), this rear wheel drive sedan combined a luxurious interior, sporty dynamics and reliable engines of the series VQ. However, it is The R29 was the last Skyline to be officially sold under the Nissan brand - after 2002, the model moved under the Infiniti brand as the G35.
For the Russian market Skyline R29 remained exotic: most cars entered the country through “gray” imports from Japan or the UAE. Today this is one of the most popular JDM projects for tuning, but also one of the most problematic to operate - especially when it comes to versions with automatic transmission RE5R05A. In this guide we will look at all key aspects: from choosing an engine to typical “diseases” and ways to eliminate them.
Technical characteristics of Nissan Skyline R29 (V35)
Under the hood Skyline R29 two main engines were installed: atmospheric VQ25DD (2.5 l) and more powerful VQ35DE (3.5 l). Both units belonged to the family VQ, known for its reliability, but had their own characteristics. Basic version with 2.5 liter engine developed 215 hp, while the top 350GT already produced 280 hp. (in Japanese specification - 300 hp due to a different ECU setting).
Gearboxes were offered to choose from: 6-speed manual (rare for R29) or 5-speed automatic RE5R05A, which became the main “sore spot” of the model. Suspension - classic for Skyline: multi-link rear And double wishbones at the front, which provided excellent handling, but required regular maintenance.
| Parameter | VQ25DD (2.5 l) | VQ35DE (3.5 l) |
|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 215 | 280 (300 for JDM) |
| Torque, Nm | 253 | 363 |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s | 8.5 | 6.2 (with manual transmission) |
| Max. speed, km/h | 220 (limited) | 250 (limited) |
| Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km | 10.5 | 12.8 |
The version stands apart Skyline 350GT Coupe — a two-door modification with a shortened wheelbase and a stiffer suspension. These cars today are valued higher than sedans, but their repairs are more expensive due to the rarity of spare parts.
- VQ25DD (2.5 l) - more reliable and economical
- VQ35DE (3.5 l) - more powerful and dynamic
- Anyone, as long as it's in good condition
- I don't know, I haven't decided yet
Weaknesses and typical problems
Nissan Skyline R29 is not the most reliable car in the Skyline line, and here's why. The main headache for owners is automatic transmission RE5R05A. She suffers from:
- 🔧 Oil overheating (especially during aggressive driving) - leads to wear of clutches and solenoids.
- 🔧 Jerking when switching in 2-3 gears (a typical symptom of a worn torque converter).
- 🔧 Oil leaks through oil seals and the automatic transmission radiator (often requires replacing the radiator every 100 thousand km).
The second most popular “jamb” is oil appetite of VQ35DE engines. After 150–200 thousand km, the engine begins to “eat” oil (up to 1 liter per 1000 km), and the cause is usually worn oil rings or coked VVT valves. The problem is solved either decarbonization (temporary measure), or major repairs.
⚠️ Attention: If, when starting “cold”, you hear a knock in the engine, which disappears after 5–10 seconds, this is problem with hydraulic lifters. On VQ35DE replacing them costs 30–50 thousand rubles (depending on the service).
Other common problems:
- 🔋 Electrics: the comfort unit (responsible for power windows and mirrors) often malfunctions, and ABS sensors fail.
- 🚗 Suspension: wheel bearings and silent blocks of the rear multi-link require replacement every 80–100 thousand km.
- 🔥 Brakes: On versions with 17-inch wheels, the caliper guides often get stuck.
What to do if Skyline R29 does not start?
If the starter turns, but the engine does not catch, check:
1. Immobilizer (often the key or antenna around the ignition switch fails).
2. Fuel pump (in the tank - if you don’t hear a buzzing sound when you turn on the ignition).
3. Ignition coils (on VQ35DE they fail every 100 thousand km).
If the starter does not turn, it is either the fault solenoid relay, or battery (even with normal voltage there may not be enough starting current).
How to choose a Nissan Skyline R29 on the secondary market
Upon purchase Skyline R29 the main thing is check mileage and service history. Most cars on the market have “twisted” odometers, and actual mileage can exceed 200–250 thousand km. Please note:
- Automatic transmission condition: The test drive should include checking shift kicks, kickdown delays and operation in
Manual(if any). - Engine oil: If it is black and smells like burning, the engine has not been properly maintained.
- Body: Skyline R29 Doesn't rust as much as European cars, but check
front fendersAndrapidsfor chips and signs of repair. - Documents: If the car is imported from Japan, please request
auction sheet(it will show the actual mileage and accident history).
Cost Skyline R29 on the Russian market (2026):
- 💰 2.5 MT/AT in good condition - from 800 thousand to 1.2 million rubles.
- 💰 3.5 AT (280 hp) - from 1.3 to 1.8 million rubles.
- 💰 350GT Coupe — from 1.8 to 2.5 million rubles (depending on mileage).
⚠️ Attention: If the seller claims that the car is “undamaged” but refuses to provide a photo VIN numbers on the body (it is located on the pillar between the driver's door and the windshield) - this is a reason to be wary. The number must match the PTS!
☑️ What to check when inspecting Skyline R29
Tuning and modifications: what can be done with the R29
Nissan Skyline R29 - an excellent platform for tuning, but the approach depends on the goal:
- 🏁 Atmospheric tuning: for VQ35DE popular
collectors 4-2-1,sports camshaftsand modification of the intake (for example, Plenum Spacer). This gives +20–30 hp. without loss of resource. - 💨 Turbo kits: based VQ35DE install turbines GReddy or HKS, but this requires strengthening the transmission (especially automatic transmission).
- 🎨 External tuning: popular body kits in the style Mine’s or Tommy Kaira, as well as installation
LED opticsAndxenon(but the latter requires adjustment of the reflectors).
One of the most budget-friendly and effective upgrades is exhaust system replacement on direct flow (For example, Tanabe or HKS Hi-Power). This adds not only sound, but also ~10–15 hp. due to better gas removal. However, remember: on VQ35DE after 200 thousand km, any modifications accelerate engine wear if the problem with the maslozhorom.
For those who want serious power, there is an option engine swap:
- 🔥 VQ35HR (from Infiniti G37) - 330 hp “out of the box”, but requires modification of the fastenings.
- 🔥 VR38DETT (from Nissan GT-R) - up to 600 hp, but this is already a full-fledged project with a transmission replacement.
If you plan to tune Skyline R29, start with Changing the automatic transmission oil to full synthetic ATF (For example, Mobil 3309). This will extend the life of the box even under increased loads.
Maintenance and repair: cost and frequency
Contain Nissan Skyline R29 not as expensive as GT-R, but cheaper Toyota Chaser he won't. Here are the main expense items:
| Type of work | Frequency | Cost (RUB) |
|---|---|---|
| Changing engine oil (5W-30) | Every 7–10 thousand km | 3 000–5 000 |
| Automatic transmission oil change (partial) | Every 40–50 thousand km | 8 000–12 000 |
| Replacing timing belt + rollers | Every 100 thousand km | 25 000–35 000 |
| Replacing brake pads (front) | Every 30–40 thousand km | 10 000–15 000 |
| Suspension diagnostics | Every 20 thousand km | 2 000–4 000 |
Most expensive repairs:
- 💸 Overhaul of AQ35DE (with block boring) - from 200 thousand rubles.
- 💸 Replacement of automatic transmission with contract — 150–250 thousand rubles (depending on the donor’s mileage).
- 💸 Electronics repair (comfort unit, ECU) - from 30 thousand rubles.
Where to look for spare parts:
- 🛒 Japan (via Amayama or Buyee) - original, but long delivery.
- 🛒 UAE (via Dubizzle) - contract units are cheaper than in Russia.
- 🛒 Russia (Telegram groups, Avito) - faster, but there is a risk of running into a fake.
If you are planning to buy a contract engine VQ35DE, take only with mileage up to 80 thousand km. Engines after 100 thousand km often have hidden problems with oil consumption.
Skyline R29 vs competitors: which is better?
Nissan Skyline R29 competes with several Japanese sedans in the same class. Let's compare:
| Model | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Mark X (2004–2009) | More reliable (1JZ/2JZ engines), cheaper to repair | Less sporty character, boring design |
| Honda Accord Euro R (CL7) | Lighter, better handling (McPherson suspension) | The K20A engine is capricious and expensive to tune |
| Mazda Atenza (GG) | Cheaper, simpler design | Weak engines (L-series), body corrosion |
| Infiniti G35 (V35) | The same Skyline, but with better interior trim | 20–30% more expensive when purchasing |
Main advantage Skyline R29 - this is balance between comfort and sportiness. It's not as tuned to the track as Subaru Legacy B4, but not as “smooth” as Toyota Crown. If you need rear-wheel drive sedan with character, which you can drive and not be embarrassed at work - the R29 is an excellent choice.
However, if you are scared problems with automatic transmission And maslozhorom, better take a closer look Mark X with 1JZ-GE - it is easier to maintain and cheaper in spare parts.
Legal nuances: customs clearance and PTS
Since the majority Nissan Skyline R29 in Russia these are cars from Japan or the UAE; when purchasing, it is important to clarify them legal status:
- 📄 Customs cleared cars (with PTS): the most “clean”, but also the most expensive. Check whether the car is listed as collateral (via traffic police or Autocode).
- 📄 Cars according to “gray” schemes (without customs clearance): 30–40% cheaper, but cannot be registered. Risk of impoundment.
- 📄 Cars from the UAE: often sold with
temporary import(for 1 year). After the expiration of the period, you need to either clear customs (expensive) or take it back.
Cost of customs clearance Skyline R29 in 2026:
- 💵 Duty: 48% of the cost (but not less than 2.5 euros per 1 cm³ of engine volume).
- 💵 VAT: 20% of (cost + duty).
- 💵 Recycling fee: ~20 thousand rubles.
Example: Skyline 3.5 AT worth 1.5 million rubles, customs clearance will cost approximately 1.2–1.5 million rubles additionally. Therefore, many owners prefer to drive “gray” license plates, risking fines.
⚠️ Attention: If you are buying a car with temporary import, make sure the seller has purchase and sale agreement with the exporter. Without it, you will not be able to extend the temporary import or clear customs of the car!
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Skyline R29
Is it possible to install an engine from an Infiniti Q50 (VR30DDTT) on the Skyline R29?
Theoretically, yes, but this is an extremely complex and expensive project. You will need:
- Replacing the subframe (since the VR30 is longer than the VQ35).
- Modification of the cooling and exhaust system.
- Flashing the ECU (or installing Standalone).
The cost of such a swap is from 1 million rubles (excluding the donor). It is much easier and cheaper to tune a standard one VQ35DE.
What kind of oil should I put in VQ35DE?
Optimal choice - semi-synthetic 5W-30 with permission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Popular options:
- Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30 (original for Japanese engines).
- Mobil 1 5W-30 (holds viscosity well at high temperatures).
- Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30 (suitable for engines with mileage >150 thousand km).
You need to change the oil every 7–8 thousand km (despite the 15 thousand km limit). B VQ35DE It is critical to prevent the oil from overheating!
How to check the RE5R05A automatic transmission before purchasing?
Here is a checklist for a test drive:
- Warm up the box (drive 10–15 km).
- Check the kicks when shifting from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd gear.
- Make sure there are no slips (if the speed rises when accelerating hard, but the car does not accelerate, the clutches are worn out).
- Look at the color of the oil on the dipstick (it should be red, not black or with metal shavings).
If at least one of the points is in doubt - refuse the purchase or bargain for a discount of 100–150 thousand rubles (for automatic transmission repairs).
How much does a contract automatic transmission RE5R05A cost?
Prices for contract boxes (2026):
- 🇯🇵 From Japan (mileage up to 80 thousand km) - 180–250 thousand rubles.
- 🇦🇪 From the UAE (mileage 100-150 thousand km) - 120-180 thousand rubles.
- 🇷🇺 In Russia (condition “depending on your luck”) - 80-150 thousand rubles.
The cost of replacement work is 30–50 thousand rubles (depending on the region).
Is it possible to drive the Skyline R29 in winter?
Yes, but with reservations:
- 🔹 Rear wheel drive requires caution in the snow (it is better to install
winter tires 215/55 R17). - 🔹 Low ground clearance (130 mm) - risk of catching the protection on uneven surfaces.
- 🔹 Automatic transmission does not like prolonged heating (oil degrades faster).
If winters in your region are snowy, it is better to put winter set of wheels 16 inches (For example, 205/60 R16) - this will increase ground clearance and improve handling.