When it comes to legendary Japanese cars, Nissan Skyline R36 (also known as V37) occupies a special place. This generation, released in 2013, was the last in the line Skyline with classic naturally aspirated engine VQ37VHR - by the same token that he inherited fame from Nissan 370Z And Infiniti Q60. But unlike sports coupes, R36 combines the luxury of a premium sedan with dynamics worthy of the name Skyline.

In this article we will look at Skyline R36 down to the screw: from factory characteristics to tuning potential, from typical “diseases” to hidden functions of the on-board computer. You will find out why this car is still in demand on the secondary market, despite the cessation of production in 2019, and how to choose the right copy for purchase. And also - why the VQ37VHR engine is considered one of the most reliable in Nissan history, but at the same time requires a special approach to maintenance after 100,000 km.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Skyline R36 (V37)

Under the hood Skyline R36 hiding 3.7 liter naturally aspirated V6 VQ37VHR - the one that develops 333 hp as standard. But this is not the only version: for the Japanese market a modification with 320 hp (due to tax restrictions), and for Infiniti Q50 - hybrid version with electric motor. Works in tandem with the engine 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, which, despite criticism for being “thoughtful,” is perfectly adapted to the character of the engine.

The dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h takes 5.5–5.8 sec depending on the configuration, and the maximum speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. But real magic R36 lies not in the numbers, but in Attesa E-TS all-wheel drive system, which distributes torque between the axles in the ratio of 50:50 to 0:100 depending on conditions. This makes the car incredibly predictable on both dry asphalt and wet roads.

  • 🔧 Engine: VQ37VHR V6, 3.7 l, 333 hp (245 kW) at 7000 rpm
  • ⚡ Torque: 366 Nm at 5200 rpm
  • 🔄 Transmission: 7-st. Automatic transmission with manual mode, all-wheel drive Attesa E-TS
  • 🏁 Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 5.5–5.8 sec
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption: 12.5 l/100 km (city), 8.5 l/100 km (highway)

The suspension deserves special attention: front - double wishbones, behind - multi-link design. In top trim levels the system was installed Drive Mode Selector with modes Standard, Sport And Snow, which changed the settings of the engine, transmission and steering. However R36 did not receive adaptive shock absorbers, which some owners consider an omission.

📊 Which Skyline engine do you like best?
  • VQ37VHR (3.7 atmo)
  • VR38DETT (3.8 turbo)
  • RB26DETT (2.6 turbo, R32-R34)
  • Other

Comparison of Skyline R36 with Nissan GT-R and Infiniti Q50

Many people mistakenly believe Skyline R36 "a lightweight version of the GT-R", but this is not so. Yes, both cars were developed on the platform Nissan FM, but R36 positioned as luxury sports sedan, while GT-R - like a supercar. Main differences:

Parameter Nissan Skyline R36 (V37) Nissan GT-R (R35) Infiniti Q50 (3.7)
Engine VQ37VHR 3.7 V6 atmospheric VR38DETT 3.8 V6 turbo VQ37VHR 3.7 V6 atmospheric
Power 333 hp 550–600 hp 330 hp
Drive Full (Attesa E-TS) Full (ATTESA E-TS Pro) Rear/All Wheel (AWD)
Weight 1700–1800 kg 1740–1780 kg 1650–1750 kg
Price (secondary market, 2026) 2.5–4 million rub. 5–12 million rubles. 2–3.5 million rubles.

If GT-R - this is pure performance with a turbo engine and intricate electronics, then Skyline R36 — balance of comfort and dynamics. For example, salon R36 trimmed with genuine leather and wood, while in GT-R Carbon fiber and Alcantara predominate. But Infiniti Q50, despite the same engine, loses in the chassis settings and all-wheel drive - its system AWD less advanced than Attesa E-TS at Skyline.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline R36 on the secondary market, pay attention to the mileage in Japan. Many copies have “twisted” indicators - the actual mileage can exceed 150,000 km, which is critical for the resource VQ37VHR.

Tuning Skyline R36: from chip tuning to swap on VR38

Despite the fact that VQ37VHR - naturally aspirated engine, its potential for tuning is assessed by experts as "tall but expensive". Standard modifications include:

  • 🔥 Chip tuning: ECU firmware allows you to increase power up to 360–380 hp without mechanical modifications. The best results are shown by firmware from UpRev And COBB Tuning.
  • 💨 Inlet/outlet: Installation Cold Air Intake (for example, from Injen) and forward flow (for example, HKS Hi-Power) adds 15–20 hp and improves the sound.
  • ⚙️ Mechanics: Easy-to-turn pulleys, lightweight flywheel and clutch Spec or Clutch Masters reduce power losses.
  • 🔄 Swap: The last resort option is to replace it with VR38DETT from GT-R, but this requires modifications to the suspension, transmission and electronics (budget from 1.5 million rub.).

However, there are nuances: VQ37VHR sensitive to fuel quality (recommended AI-98) and overheating. After chip tuning, you must install an additional intercooler for the automatic transmission and strengthen the cooling system (for example, a radiator from Koyorad). Otherwise, the risk of oil overheating and failure of transmission solenoids increases 3 times.

Check compression in cylinders (normal: 11–12 bar)

Replace spark plugs with iridium ones (NGK ILFR7H or Denso IKH20)

Install an additional oil cooler

Check the condition of the timing chain (lifetime: 150,000 km)

Update automatic transmission firmware (for example, from TCU Upgrade)

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A separate direction of tuning - suspension. Popular improvements:

  • 🏎️ Springs Tein S.Tech or H&R to reduce clearance by 20–30 mm.
  • 🔩 Shock absorbers KW V3 or Ohlins for the track.
  • 🔧 Reinforced silent blocks Whiteline to improve handling.
What happens if you don’t change the automatic transmission oil after chip tuning?

After increasing power, standard transmission fluid NS-2 degrades 2 times faster. This leads to:

- Sticking solenoids and kicks when switching.

- Overheating of the torque converter (risk of failure after 50,000 km).

- Accelerated wear of friction clutches.

Recommended replacement: oil Motul Multi ATF or Red Line D6 ATF every 40,000 km.

Typical Skyline R36 problems and how to avoid them

Even legendary VQ37VHR is not without weaknesses. Here TOP-5 problemsproblems that owners face:

  1. Timing chain: Resource of the original chain - 150,000 km, but with aggressive driving it can stretch after 100,000 km. Symptoms: metallic knocking when cold, floating speed. Solution: Replacement of chain + tensioners + shoes (set Nissan OEM or Cloyes).
  2. Oily appetite: After 120,000 km the engine begins to “eat up” oil (1 l per 3,000 km). Culprit - bedding of rings or worn oil seals. Solution: Decarbonization (LAVR ML202) or capital.
  3. Automatic transmission solenoids: When running > 80,000 km Jerks may appear when switching. Solution: Replacing solenoids (part number 31327-31X00) + flushing the valve body.
  4. Electronics: The throttle position sensor often fails (P0120) and climate control unit. Solution: Replacement with original or Denso.
  5. Suspension: Wheel bearings and silent blocks of the front levers wear out to 60,000–80,000 km. Solution: Installation of reinforced parts (Moog or Febi).
⚠️ Attention: If the dashboard lights up Check Engine with code P0011 (timing phases), stop operation immediately! This is a sign of critical chain stretch, and further driving may lead to the valves meeting the pistons.

Another "trick" R36 — sensitivity to gasoline quality. Usage AI-95 instead of recommended AI-98 leads to detonation and accelerated wear of catalysts. At the same time, replacing catalysts with flame arresters (HJS or MagnaFlow) requires firmware Euro-2, otherwise it will burn Check Engine.

Hidden features and life hacks for owners

Skyline R36 filled with Easter eggs and hidden settings that even experienced owners are not aware of. Here are some of them:

  • 🔑 Secret diagnostic menu: Clamp Trip Reset on the dashboard, turn on the ignition and release the button after 5 seconds. A menu will appear with block software versions and errors.
  • 🎵 Bose audio system: Top trims have 16 speakers, but their sound can be improved by turning off the processing Bose Centerpoint through a diagnostic scanner.
  • 🚗 "Sport Sharp" mode: If in mode Sport press the button twice Mode, a more aggressive throttle and automatic transmission setting is activated (not documented!).
  • 🔋 Battery Saving: When parking for a long time, turn off the function Intelligent Key (button on the key) to avoid battery drain.

Another life hack concerns navigation updates. Original cards for Nissan Connect are outdated, but they can be replaced with current ones from Infiniti Q50 (2018–2019) via USB. To do this you need:

  1. Download the image from the site Infiniti Owners.
  2. Format the flash drive to FAT32.
  3. Upload files to folder NISSAN\NAVI.
  4. Insert the USB flash drive into the port and confirm the update through the navigation menu.
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If the power windows stop working after washing, check the fuse box. F30 (10A) under the hood. Often water gets into the contacts, causing a short circuit.

How to choose Skyline R36 on the secondary market: buyer’s checklist

Prices for Skyline R36 in Russia vary from 2.5 to 4 million rub. depending on mileage and configuration. To avoid running into a “pig in a poke”, follow this algorithm:

  1. History check: Request a report CarVertical or Autocode. Pay attention to the number of owners (optimally 1–2) and the absence of accidents.
  2. Engine diagnostics:
    • Listen to the operation when it is cold (there should be no knocks or vibrations).
    • Check compression (normal: 11–12 bar in all cylinders).
    • Inspect the spark plugs - the soot should be gray, without traces of oil.
  • Transmission: Take it for a test drive with hard acceleration. Jerking when switching is a sign of wear on the solenoids.
  • Electronics: Check the operation of all sensors, climate control and multimedia. A common problem is screen glitches Nissan Connect.
  • Body: Inspect the sills and arches for corrosion. R36 does not rust as actively as R35 GT-R, but chips on the hood can lead to local outbreaks.

    • Pay special attention service history. Optimal maintenance interval for VQ37VHR:

    • 🛢️ Oil: Every 7,000–10,000 km (we recommend Motul 8100 X-Clean 5W-40).
    • 🔧 Filters: Air - every 20,000 km, fuel - every 40,000 km.
    • ⚙️ Transmission: Automatic transmission oil change - every 60,000 km (despite claims of a "maintenance free" box!).
    ⚠️ Attention: If the seller claims that the automatic transmission oil is “filled for its entire service life,” this is a sure sign that it has never been changed. In this case, be prepared to change the oil with flushing (15,000–20,000 rub.) immediately after purchase.
    💡

    The most reliable examples are cars from 2016–2018. with mileage up to 80,000 km, imported from Japan through official dealers. Avoid cars with mileage >120,000 km without documented maintenance.

    The future of the Skyline: why the R36 was the last naturally aspirated one

    In 2019 production Skyline R36 was discontinued and was replaced by Nissan Skyline (Z34) with turbo engine VR30DDTT - the same thing that is installed on Infiniti Q50 Red Sport. This transition symbolized the end of the era of naturally aspirated engines in the line Skyline.

    Reasons for refusal VQ37VHR:

    • 🌍 Environmental standards: The naturally aspirated engine did not meet increasingly stringent requirements. Euro-6d And WLTP.
    • ⛽ Economical: Turbo engines VR30DDTT with similar power (304–405 hp) are spent on 1–1.5 l less fuel per 100 km.
    • 💰 Production cost: VQ37VHR required high-precision assembly and expensive materials (for example, titanium valves).

    However R36 remains in demand among enthusiasts precisely because atmospheric character — linear power delivery, reliability and potential for tuning. Turbo engines VR30DDTT, despite impressive numbers, suffer from problems with boost and overheating, which makes VQ37VHR more predictable in the long term.

    Fun fact: in 2023 Nissan announced the return of the name Skyline for electric vehicle based Ariya, but that's a completely different story. A R36 remains the last "real" Skyline with a gasoline heart.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Skyline R36

    ❓ Is it possible to install an engine from a GT-R (VR38DETT) on an R36?

    Technically yes, but this is an extremely expensive project. You will need:

    • Replacement of subframe and suspension elements (due to different weights of engines).
    • Transmission adaptation (automatic transmission from GT-R or reinforced ZF).
    • ECU flashing and wiring modification.

    Budget: from 1.5 million rub. only for spare parts. Much cheaper to buy GT-R R35.

    ❓ What oil should I fill in the VQ37VHR?

    Recommended options:

    • Motul 8100 X-Clean 5W-40 — the optimal choice for urban use.
    • Liqui Moly Leichtlauf 5W-40 — good price/quality balance.
    • Pennzoil Platinum 5W-30 - if you drive mainly on the highway.

    Important: avoid oils with approval LL-04 (For example, Castrol Edge) - they contain additives that are aggressive to oil seals VQ37VHR.

    ❓ Why do hydraulic compensators knock when it’s cold?

    This is a typical problem VQ37VHR after 100,000 km. Reasons:

    • Contamination of oil channels (solution: engine flush Liqui Moly Oil-Schlamm-Spulung).
    • Wear of the hydraulic compensators themselves (solution: replacement, article number Nissan 15201-4M000).
    • Low oil pressure (solution: check the oil pump).

    If the knocking noise disappears after warming up, this is not critical, but you should not ignore the problem - over time it can develop into the sound of connecting rods.

    ❓ How to disable the Start/Stop system?

    There is no official way to disable it, but there are workarounds:

    1. When starting the engine, immediately press the button Start/Stop Off (located next to the automatic transmission selector).
    2. Disable the tilt sensor (located under the steering wheel) - the system will “think” that the car is on a hill.
    3. Reflash the ECU (requires intervention in the electronics, risk of voiding the warranty).

    The easiest way is to simply not press the brake when stopping, then the system will not work.

    ❓ How much does it cost to maintain Skyline R36 per year?

    Approximate costs (for Moscow, mileage 15,000 km/year):

    Expense item Cost (RUB/year)
    Fuel (AI-98, 12 l/100 km) 120 000–150 000
    Insurance (CASCO + OSAGO) 80 000–120 000
    Maintenance (oil, filters, pads) 30 000–50 000
    Repair fund (in case of breakdowns) 50 000–100 000
    Tires (summer + winter tires) 60 000–100 000

    Total: RUB 340,000–520,000/year. For comparison, the content BMW 535i (N55) costs about the same amount, but with greater risks of expensive repairs.