Generations
R35 — R35
2009–2024
3.8L Twin-Turbo V6
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Nissan Gt R problems ranked by severity. We track 9 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
DCT gearbox solenoid and clutch failure (R35)
The dual-clutch transmission uses hydraulic solenoids to control clutch engagement and gear selection. These solenoids fail frequently, causing erratic shifts, clutch slip, and transmission warnings. Launch control use accelerates clutch wear dramatically. Early 2009-2012 cars have the highest failure rates. Complete DCT replacement can cost £15,000, making this the most expensive single failure mode on the R35. Later software updates and revised solenoid designs have improved reliability but not eliminated the issue entirely.
What happens if ignoredComplete transmission failure renders the car undriveable. Clutch replacement requires transmission removal and costs £8,000-£12,000 including labour. Solenoid failures can cause dangerous unpredictable gear changes. A complete DCT unit replacement costs £15,000 plus fitting. The car should not be driven aggressively if transmission warnings are present.
Specialist
£3,000–£15,000
Main dealer
£8,000–£15,000
Parts only
£2,000–£8,000
Major
Steering lock failure (R35)
The electronic steering lock mechanism is integrated into the steering column and controlled by the intelligent key system. The motor and control unit fail without warning, preventing the steering wheel from unlocking and making the car impossible to start. This affects all R35 model years and can occur at any mileage. The failure is often intermittent initially, with the steering occasionally failing to unlock on startup. Complete failure leaves the car stranded until the unit is replaced or bypassed.
What happens if ignoredComplete failure prevents the car from starting and leaves it stranded. The steering wheel remains physically locked even with the key present. Replacement requires steering column removal and costs £1,000-£1,500 including programming. Some specialists offer bypass solutions but these may affect insurance coverage and type approval.
Independent garage
£500–£1,000
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£1,500
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
Turbo failure (R35)
The twin IHI turbochargers operate at extremely high boost pressures and temperatures. Bearing failure, compressor wheel damage, and wastegate actuator problems are common, particularly on cars used for track driving or modified for higher power output. Poor oil change intervals accelerate bearing wear. Turbo failure typically affects one unit first, causing uneven power delivery and triggering engine management warnings. Replacement requires engine-out work due to the V6's packaging constraints.
What happens if ignoredSingle turbo failure reduces power output and triggers limp mode. Continued driving can damage the engine through debris ingestion or oil starvation. Complete turbo replacement costs £6,000-£8,000 including labour due to the complexity of access. Oil-starved bearings can seize completely, requiring immediate engine shutdown to prevent further damage.
Specialist
£3,000–£6,000
Main dealer
£4,000–£6,000
Parts only
£1,800–£3,500
Major
Catalytic converter emissions failure (R35)
The high-performance VR38DETT engine runs rich under load and generates extreme exhaust temperatures that degrade the catalytic converters prematurely. Track use and aggressive driving accelerate catalyst poisoning. Failed cats trigger check engine lights and cause the car to fail MOT emissions testing. Replacement requires four expensive cats due to the twin-turbo V6 configuration.
What happens if ignoredFailed catalytic converters cause MOT failure and prevent road legal use. The car may enter limp mode or trigger check engine lights affecting performance and reliability. Complete catalyst replacement costs £4,000-£6,000 for all four units. Continued driving with failed cats can damage oxygen sensors and other emissions components.
Independent garage
£2,500–£4,000
Specialist
£3,000–£5,000
Main dealer
£4,000–£6,000
Parts only
£1,800–£3,000
5 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Nissan Gt R fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 502x the fleet average
Sample: 1,558 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 1,303 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 6.3x the fleet average
Sample: 3,860 tests
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Related
Nissan Gt R reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Nissan Gt R?
The Nissan Gt R has 9 known issues across 4 severity levels. The most serious are: DCT gearbox solenoid and clutch failure (R35).
Is the Nissan Gt R reliable?
The Nissan Gt R has 1 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Nissan Gt R problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.