I've been browsing these forums for the past few months, been really wanting a Z for the past few years...

Now that I'm in the financial posistion to get one, I'm definetally considering it. I'm a little confused though, it seems like there are a few major flaws with the Z that Nissan just refuses to fix.

I read about the tire feathering problem all the time, on this site and many others. It seems like a huge issue with the car. I don't understand how Z owners can recommend the car so enthusiastically.

Does the problem aflict fewer cars than I'm aware of? Or is it just not an issue that is so serious to deter one from buying the car?

Thanks guys. I'm hoping you can talk me into this beautiful car.

 

Tire feathering is not an issue with '04-'05 (and I assume '06) 350Z's. No automobile if perfect and trouble-free. Pick a car make, any car make, from Corvette to Porsche to Toyota, and there will be issues with one thing or another. The 350Z is a blast to drive, and will make you want to take the long way home. if you're not in to constantly abusing the car, the Z is as dependable as any other manufactured automobile.

 

no cars are perfect. i have an 06 Z, everything goes good, except the clutch isn't that smooth, (lots z owners said clutch problem never get away from z, even 240, 300z). everything else so far, good. you will get what you paid..

 

I know how you feel man. I fought whether or not to buy one for months, finally just said f%$#it and go for it, so I will be getting one in the near future.

Sure it's got some issues but so what. I'm buying new, so at least I will have a 3 year warranty to fall back on if I need to. I figure by the time the warranty expires, I will have enough money set aside to deal with whatever problems arise.

I just love the looks of the Z too much, power and handeling to say no to it, based on some peoples problems with the car.

 

Keep the car under alignment specs.

You will be fine.

Tires don't "magically" get uneven wear.

 

ITS A SPORTS CAR. IF you want good handling, you'll have to sacrafice a little more tire wear.

 

I think the feathering issue is a thing of the past. I have been following it for about 9 months and since the alignment spec was changed- max toe-in is now prefered- and the tire change, I have not seen any unresolved feathering. Search the forums and make your own conclusions.

 

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I had my alignment fix and two sets of tires-- this last set is completely different. The outside tread is cpmpletely enclosed (may not be explaining it right) and no feathering has occurred yet.

 

I've had two sets of tires feather to hell on my 03 and I'd still recommend the car to anyone... tire feathering doesn't blow up the tire, just makes the ride a little louder.

Well worth a little louder ride to drive something as sexy, quick, and nimble as the Z car. As someone noted above, you'll always be taking the long way home... If I get in a bad mood for some personal reasons, what do I do? I drive the Z and it brings an instantaneous smile to my face. If driving it doesn't, stop at a gas station and you are sure to have someone say something about the car and then *that* will bring a smile to your face.

Can't beat the looks of this car (with another) for under $50k in my opinion, maybe even $70k... The Z looks better to me than almost everything I regularly see on the road other than maybe the M3, some Porsches, Vipers, and the Z06 (like I said all over $60k vehicles).

The reliability of the VQ, handling, and power for under $30k is just too good to pass up for "tire feathering" and a "rough transmission".

 

So I was mistaken? The latest spec adjustments have fixed the problem?

 

Even if I had to replace the front tires every 10K miles, it would be worth it. The Z is am awesome car. If you truly want a sports car, you can't go wrong choosing the Z.

Sometimes, ya just gotta go with your gut, and let your wild child have what it wants. If you get something else, you'll always say to yourself, "Gee, I should have gotten that Z."