Nissan 350Z Engine Replacement in Phoenix

The Nissan 350Z (Z33) used the VQ35DE 3.5-litre V6 throughout its 2003–2006 run, but not all VQ35DE units are the same. The 2006–2007 models received the Rev-up variant, a higher-output version with different camshafts, pistons and other internals. That split is the single most important fact for anyone ordering a replacement engine.

From 2007 to 2008, the final model year cars received the VQ35HR, a different engine with dual intake paths, higher compression and more power. The VQ35HR is not a Rev-up; it is a distinct engine that replaced the VQ35DE in the 350Z and is sometimes confused with the VQ37VHR that followed in the 370Z.

The 350Z was offered in a single body style with either a manual or automatic transmission, which simplifies the body-style question. The transmission choice still matters for the flywheel and torque converter arrangement. Used engines from Altima and Murano VQ35DE applications will not bolt directly to a 350Z without addressing the sump, accessory layout and mounting.

The Rev-up split is the thing to get right

The standard VQ35DE and the Rev-up variant are different specifications with different internals. A Rev-up engine in a standard car, or vice versa, can cause engine-management problems that are not immediately obvious. The split falls across the 2006 model year, so a 2005 and a 2006 350Z may not use the same engine despite looking the same.

From 2007, the VQ35HR replaced the VQ35DE entirely. It is a distinct engine with dual intake paths, higher compression and different mounting. It is not a drop-in replacement for a standard or Rev-up VQ35DE. Confirm which engine your 350Z has before sourcing a replacement, and supply the VIN to remove all doubt.

Where Nissan 350Z orders go wrong

• Standard VQ35DE and Rev-up VQ35DE are different specifications. A Rev-up engine in a standard car, or vice versa, can cause engine-management problems.
• The 2007–2008 VQ35HR is a different engine from the VQ35DE and the Rev-up. Confirm which one you have before ordering.
• VQ35DE units from Altima, Murano or G35 applications differ in sump, accessory layout and mounting. The shared code does not make them interchangeable.

None of this needs to be worked out on your own. The Engine Finder asks for the year, model and trim and does the identification from there. The engine code field is optional precisely because most people do not have it.