I am approximately 30 days away from purchasing a 350Z, and I have just now learned of a front alignment problem that causes excessive tire wear after 3500 miles. This problem has been referred to as "tire cupping" or "tire feathering" in the posts that I have read. I have three main questions regarding this issue:

1. How common is this problem? Found in a large percentage of 350Z cars, or is it rare?

2. Do we know which Z models this is affecting? (standard, enthusiast, etc)

3. Has the problem been isolated to the point that it can be fixed permanently if the owner is willing to pay for the cost?


Thank you in advance for any information regarding these questions.

 

Well, the tire issue should be the least of your concerns. I mean sure it is important but not nearly as important and the random breaking in half of the car when you turn a corner or the way they sometimes bust into flames for no reason and kill everybody inside. get those two fixed and then worry about the tires...

 

j/k by the way...

Do a search and you should get all the info you need. It is really not that big of a deal...

 

Above: Summit Point, WV 05/27/05

Welcome to the forum. The subject which you addressed is the #1 point of discussion here (#2 is the transmission). “Search” is a valuable tool, and you’ll find hundreds of posts similar to yours.

Nissan gave the public a sports cars promoting slalom times not tire longevity. I’m sure you are aware of the handling benefits of negative front camber. Front tire wear has been addressed with several service bulletins and policy letters.

If you're looking for a vehicle which is kind to tires, maybe the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord will suit the bill. Then again, you most likely wont see either of these two cars at Summit Point.

 

thanks very much for the help guys. =)

 

Nooobie!!!! hahah j\k welcome i see u got urself a Z...ahh dont worry bout all that tire feather stuff..its all under warrenty...just go take ur Z out and have fun! go make ur face go

 

Tire feathering was a bigger issue with 2003s and has declinned since then with succeeding years. It did effect all models.

But not even all 03s had a major problem. I've seen posts from 03 owners who did not encounter feathering. My 03 had minor feathering but I still got 24,000 miles out of the OEM tires.

No reason for the issue to stand in the way of buying, imo, but I'd probably avoid buying an 03 to be on safe side.

 

buy 04 or above and you won't have that problem

 

Never had the problem with my 03...

 

It's as common as someone telling you to use the search function.....

 

lol. Well its good to know that there ARE some 03 and 04 cars out there that don't have the problem. Also I have found some people fixed it with ~$900 aftermarket part which is totally fine with me.

Z here I come, thanks again for the help guys. =)