Jaime Oliveira

So i found a 2004 350z with 180.000km for sale in switzerland for 7500Fr. And they usually seel for 14k/18k depends on how many km’s they have, and i am scared that the car has a lot of problem, what can u guys tell me to check

MicVelo

The usual: everything.

Seriously, if you’re asking this question, I would suggest you find a Nissan dealer service or Nissan specialist who can do a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) which covers the whole car and gives you a report with areas that cause concern as well as overall health of the car.

Here in the US, this service costs between $250 and $500, depending on who/where you take it. Sounds like a lot but is worth it on any car. Not sure if/where this is done where you are.

dkmura

iTrader: (64)

The only thing to add to Mic's reply is to insist on getting a written assessment report, not just some verbal comments. Be sure to emphasize that you are paying for a full assessment, and need a full report of each area. Also, be honest and tell the shop they might might not get the repair work available afterwards.

Z's are strong and durable cars, but only a full mechanical assessment will tell you what you're really buying.

Spike100

Hi Jaime. The Nissan 350z is a very reliable vehicle. I have owned my 350z for many years (I bought a 2003 car as new), and at 144K miles (232k kilometers) it has been a truly remarkably good car.

Here is what to look for when buying a 2003 or 2004 model:

1. TRANSMISSION. During a test drive, listen and feel for any grinding while shifting (up or down). Some of the early 2004 models had faulty synchromesh gears. It is obvious when driving the car. You want the CD009 (latest version is CD00A) transmission. Earlier models have faulty synchromesh gears. Identifying the exact transmission model can be confusing, but you can find clues searching on Google.

2. WINDOW MOTORS Test the electric window motor by simply rolling the windows up and down.

3. REAR HATCH ACTUATOR Make sure the rear hatch latch holds the hatch securely. The rear hatch actuator (the hatch’s remote release mechanism) often fails at about the mileage of the car you are considering.

4. DRIVER SEAT Look for wear on the driver seat outside bolster.

5. SUSPENSION CROSS MEMBERS Look for rust on the cross members. These may require replacement depending upon the climate where the car was driven.

6. The CRANK SHAFT SENSORS and the CAM SHAFT SENSORS may require replacement if not already replaced. There is no way to test this, but it is obvious if either requires replacement.

7. FUEL FILLER INTAKE There was a problem with the fuel pipe. This was a voluntary recall and is likely fixed in the 2004 model you are considering.

8. SPRINGS AND SHOCKS If the car has its original springs and dampers, you probably should consider replacement. Actually, this provides a wonderful opportunity to greatly improve the car’s handling and provide a better driving experience. Search this site for many great suggestions. I changed my 350z’s suspension for a small cost that really made the car more fun to drive.

9. ENGINE The engine in my 350z is still going strong. Just had the compression checked, and it was like new.

Let us know what you decide…