Is the Nissan VQ40DE Engine Really as Durable as People Say?

The Nissan VQ40DE engine, a 4.0L V6 found in vehicles like the Nissan Frontier, is celebrated for its smooth power delivery, strong towing capability, and reliability in daily driving, but is it truly flawless? While many owners praise its performance and longevity, some report concerns about maintenance costs, timing chain tensioner issues, and potential overheating under heavy loads. In this review, we dive into the VQ40DE’s strengths, weaknesses, and real-world performance, helping buyers understand whether this engine is genuinely a dependable powerhouse—or if its reputation might hide some costly surprises.