Skyline GT-R (R32 / R33 / R34)

1989-2002 / Coupe / Japan

All Skyline GT-R (R32 / R33 / R34) problems All workshop issues

Common Cooling System

Overheating Under Track Use

Symptoms

Coolant temperature climbs rapidly under sustained high-load driving (track days, spirited mountain driving). The factory cooling system struggles above 110 degrees C.

Cause

The factory radiator is marginally sized for the heat output of the RB26DETT at full boost. The factory thermostat opens at 76.5 degrees C, which is fine for street driving but too warm for track use. Modified cars producing more boost and power generate significantly more heat.

Fix

Upgrade to an aftermarket aluminium radiator with greater capacity ($400-800).

Install a lower-temperature thermostat (68 degrees C).

Add an oil cooler if not already fitted, the RB26 benefits significantly from an oil cooler under track conditions.

Cost: $1,000-2,500 for a complete cooling upgrade.

Cost mentioned in fix

$400-800Cost: $1,000-2,500 for a

Know something we don't?

Owned a Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32 / R33 / R34)? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update

// More Skyline GT-R (R32 / R33 / R34) problems

Other known issues

Minor Engine

Oil Pump Drive Collar Failure (R32, R33, CRITICAL)

The engine loses oil pressure instantly and without warning. The oil pressure gauge drops to zero, the engine seizes within seconds. Total engine destruction.

Critical Engine

Ceramic Turbo Wheel Failure (All Models)

Loss of boost on one or both turbochargers. In severe cases, ceramic wheel fragments are ingested by the engine, causing catastrophic damage to the cylinders and pistons.

Critical Engine

CAS (Crank Angle Sensor) Failure

Engine misfire, loss of power, intermittent cutting out, or complete no-start. The misfire may be random or consistent, and can come and go.

Critical Engine

Head Gasket Failure

Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, milky oil, and/or combustion gases in the coolant (detectable with a block tester).

Common Engine

Coil Pack Failure

Misfire on one or more cylinders, rough idle, loss of power.

Critical Engine

Injector Issues

Rough idle, misfire, rich or lean running on individual cylinders.

View all 16 Skyline GT-R (R32 / R33 / R34) problems