So what's the verdict? Avoid a 2003?
 

I've read up on all the problems... The window grease, tire feathering, and tranny... So is it all really that bad? I've read the feathering is fixed with new tires and an alignment, which wouldn't be bad. The window thing wouldnt be a big deal to fix, I wouldn't think. But the tranny would worry me... and how the dealers around here would handle it. What milegae does this start at?

I ask because for the price of a lower model 04, I could get a touring or better 03. So what do you guys think?

4 yr/60k mile warranty on drivetrain, so if there's a tranny prob, they replace it with a brand new one. My '03 has had no feathering frob, had the window graese thing fixed (I don't even think you have to be under the 3/36 warranty for a TSB to be done), and had the tranny replaced once; no probs with the new one. I don't think an '04 is immune to these issues, anyway...

depends on the details of the sale and the difference in the money. i know thats vague but i really dont think there is a sure answer here.

the only problems that the 03 had that maybe the 04 does not is the window streaks.

i have heard of many 04's with tranny problems and its my opinion that every Z will have some form of the tire feathering no matter what year or model the car is. its just a side product of having a great sports car that handles phenomenally with super soft and crappy OEM tires. get an alignment and better tires and you can definately minimize the feathering, but you will never fix it.

good luck.

Ian,

You hear lots of things on here about the problems.

The window thing really isn't that bad, and yes can be fixed with a trip to your dealer.

The tire thing is bad if you don't deal with it. Get the alignment done with your oil change. I recommend getting one of those 3 year deals where you only pay for it once. Merchants does it. However, just by putting on a different set of tires you will make a huge improvement.

The tranny, you are good under the 4 yr 60k. They seem to usually go out way before then, if they are going to go.

I have an 03, I would probably go with an 04 right now, just because it has slightly better odds of not having the above stuff. But that doesn't mean it won't. Just remember these are all fixable problems and every sports car will have similar things you have to deal with (still think Nissan should’ve corrected their feathering mistake though).

I recommend that you shop by mileage not model year.

I would avoid an '03, if only just to avoid the horrible dashboard/center stack color that they used on the 2003 models.

Mechanically, I was definitely scared to get a 2003 though. Plus, its always better to avoid first run model years if you can.

Good part to the 03 is the ECU is responds better to REFLASH, I have had no issues with feathering but my mods may have fixed it , aftermarket wheels same size all around easy to rotate new springs and no feathering,I have had the axle replaced because of the clicking noise.THERE IS A RECALL OUT ON THE FUEL HOSES , THIS SHOUD BE FIXED BEFORE YOUR PURCHASE. I LIVE MY 03.

Take a lower level model & get an 04. My 03 has been trouble free but it appears to be a crapshoot with 03s. And all models have same engine, drivetrain, & looks. Just fewer bells/whistles.

I have an 03 and had my tranny and clutch replaced with no issues whatsoever with the new ones. Didn't have any other problems other than that. I absolutly love my 03. good luck

Much less problems with an '05 or an '06, especially if you do not get a manual transmission.

03 here, no regrets. just hapiness

I have an 03 and I love it. You have less of a chance of problems though probably with an 04 or better yet an 05. Just what it's worth to you money wise.

+1:icon38:

I got an '03 w/ 35K miles.
Not a single problem, never been to the shop for repairs.

03 here. Only 1 issue, window motor on the drivers side went out around 27000 miles, fixed under warranty (seems like this part sucks on all years). Other than that, trouble free and love the car. Like sisco said, remember to make sure the recall is done if you decide to pick one up.

Auto sports car... no thanks.

Alright, well that helps. I appreciate it. I'm still shopping around, but I won't count out all 2003s. I'll just make sure I look them over as best I can, and take it for a nice drive before I decide. I'm looking to spend around $25,000 so we'll see what I can find.

What is the difference with the interior on the 2003s?

i bought mine with 28K miles, the woman i bought it from said she had the tranny replaced. ive only been driving it for 3000 miles/ a month but no complaints here

All the 2003 ones I saw used a different material for the dash and center stack. It was lighter colored and decidedly more "ghetto" looking. Also, it has a different door for the nav. Once they went to the 2004 (or 2004.5) they seemed to use a better material for the interior plastics

same here 25K and it's still growing on me... I'd do it again without second thoughts

Yup! 03 only problem was a Faulty Window Motor..Went to dealer and was fixed in 30min. Other than that shes a champ with 33k!