my 2003 350z
#1
Registered User
Thread Starter
my 2003 350z
i just bought a 2003 nissan 350z. im trying to find out the base model and if its hr. i dont know anything about the car so need info can someone help me. thank you
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#14
350Z/370Z Tech Moderator
MY350Z.COM
MY350Z.COM
VQ - Nissan internal code for this series/configuration engine. V essentially means the general shape/config of the engine, Q is the evolution/iteration.
35 - Displacement on 10th liters - that is 3.5 NOT 35 liters.
D - Camshaft configuration - in this case, DOHC
E - Intake configuration - in this case, Electronic Fuel Injection
Of course, this nomenclature goes to hell with the VQ35HR where HR stands for Hi Rev.... go figure. Marketing got involved.
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Trim level: based on your steering wheel sans any controls other than steering, Travlee is correct - it's a Base model (no radio, no cruise control buttons) BUT to find out "for sure", use the VIN Decoder found here:
https://my350z.com/forum/vindecoder.php
Works pretty well in identifying most cars (not just Zs or Nissans)
Also, look for TCS (traction control system) or VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) defeat buttons to the lower left of the wheel on the dash face. Base would have cutouts but with covers since neither of these features are present on Base models.
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Changing the steering wheel - sure, can be done - straight swap BUT you won't gain anything as the subsystems controlled by the steering wheel toggles (again, radio & cruise) aren't present on your car and would require those features to be added NOT enabled.