Hi, I just joined the forum, but I've had my 03 350z for 6-7 years. The cam sensor went out about a month ago and then it jumped timing about a couple weeks ago. I took it into a shop and they verified it needs a rebuild (bent valves likely) and new cam sensors. I am debating whether to get a new engine put in or just sell it as a parts car/take to autowrecking. The car has about 160,000 miles on it and I can get a low mileage JDM engine installed for about $4000 plus tax. it's automatic, probably needs new brakes (rotor resurface and pads), new windshield and window motor. I am curious what anyone else would do in my situation. Any advice is appreciated. I am in Everett, WA btw. Thanks!


Jeff

 

Welcome- but your question actually begs several more questions combined in the thread. What you don't say is what kind of condition your 160K mile Z is in. Excellent? Good? Pretty beat-up? From your list (brakes, windshield, window motor), I'd guess it's pretty used up. Also, is it a DD or a weekend cruiser?

Depending on your emotional attachment to this Z, it may be worthwhile to rebuild this Z. But if you're trying to make a purely rational decision, compare what the car would be worth on kbb.com or edmunds and my guess you'd spend more in repairing it than what you could ever expect to sell it for.

 

Thanks for your reply. There's a tiny bit of scrapes and tiny rusted dent on the rear quarter. It was a daily driver until I blew the engine and accurate mileage is 169,000. I don't really have any emotional attachment at all to it. What do you think is a fair asking price for it in the condition as described? I was going to put $2000 as a parts car. Doubt I can even get that much though. The shop said a wreck yard would only give me $400 and I'm not interested in parting it out piece by piece.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

As a non-running car, your Z may not be worth much. I think a starting price of between $1.5-2K is probably a good starting price for a local sale.

 

I agree with DK - If you’re over it than just be done with it -

I think a higher mileage, grade C condtion, AT trans, with a blown block is $1k to $1500 depending on how long you want to wait.

 

Unfortunate situation, but I appreciate your time and opinions.