ingenue007

Hi. Forgive me if I missed this discussion, but did a search and thousands of results showed up. I am looking to get a new 2004 or 2005 model when they arrive (when do they arrive?). I am looking to buy base model with 6 speed.

I've read the older 2003s have problems with tire feathering (I know they extended warranty, but has the issue been resolved), bose radio problems, and paint chipping. Those with you with newer models, could you tell me if you are having those problems? Also while I have test driven this car a couple times, I can't seem to find really rough pavement to drive on...are you guys annoyed by the supposed 'rough suspension' that is mentioned by major car review sites? (I think my current car has a rough suspension which I like). Any comments about maintenance, cost issues, repairs would be very welcome.

This will be my first new car I buy...up from a 1995 Ford Escort with 88 puny horsepower (fun to drive though and absolutely no maintenance issues; I hope the Z is like this). I will try to buy it for 25k with tax title. I looooove negotiating with dealerships.

Thanks.

AceJ587

I have an 04.5 and havent seen Any of these problems YET. (KNOCK KNOCK!)

Im not sure if the feathering issue exists in the 04.5's, but I know it does in the 04's...Youd think theyd fix all this SH*T by now...Couldnt be happier with mine.

shopdog

The tire feathering problem is still an open question. Some 2004 owners report it is still there. I haven't seen it on my 2004.5, but I've only got 4500 miles on it. Tire wear is already noticable, but it appears to be perfectly even across the face of the tire as it should be.

The Blose radio is a little better in the 2004 models. They changed the amp. But it is still a pretty sad stereo for a relatively expensive car. I have the factory NAV, which interfaces with the Blose, making it more difficult to change out the stereo for a better one. The NAV is cool, but if you buy a 350Z without it, it'll be much simpler to change out the stereo for a better one (which could include an aftermarket NAV if you desire).

The paint still chips too easily. There's really no excuse for this, other vehicles, some considerably cheaper, don't have such fragile paint. The grease streaking on the windows has been fixed, but the brake pads still generate huge amounts of brake dust. There are *much* better aftermarket brake pads available, though, and they aren't expensive. Nissan should make them standard equipment.

The ride, at least on my roadster model, is much improved. Nissan changed the suspension tuning to a "European style" starting with the 2004.5 models. It really makes a difference. Handling is still tight, but you don't porpoise on concrete highway expansion cracks anymore.

Since I haven't (yet) been hit with the tire feathering problem on my car, my wish list for improvements by Nissan are (in order) as follows:

1) More durable paint.
2) Better stereo.
3) Seats that are about an inch wider (personal issue).
4) Brake pads that don't generate so much dust.

Those four things are the issues which immediately stand out to me that I'd want addressed by Nissan. Otherwise, I think the car is *great* as it is.

LemanZ

I also have a 04.5 roadster, the bose sound a lot better than the 03 and I also can't find any tyre feathering problems yet. The suspension is better and yes, the brake dust is the only issue. Maybe the only thing you could do is try to use Zaino to polish the rims.

AZZGUY

I have an 04 built in December - 7,000 miles now - no sign of feathering. No complaints on anything- . I dont believe the Bose comes on the base model.

KrazY-2K

'03 here.... no feathering at all.

rdballer

My 04 Coupe (Touring) only had one problem, and that was a popping noise from the roof/hatch seam area right behind the driver's seat/above the "B pillar". That was resolved by the local service department in two days. I put 4800 miles on my Coupe before I traded it in.

I just purchased my 04.5 Roadster yesterday (after spending a couple of months on the "dark side" [Chevy SSR]). With a grand total of 67 miles on the roadster, I don't have any problems.

The roadster's ride is a bit softer than the 04 Coupe (Touring) I had before.

I just LOVE my roadster!

cehome

iTrader: (7)

How do you guys know if you have a 2004.5 or 2004. My build date is 6/2004. What camp does that put me into?

Richardew

I have a 2004.5 touring roadster, build date 12.03. I have had the feathering problem. It first surfaced at about 10K miles. The tires were changed at 16K and I'm now at 22K. So far they seem to be wearing evenly, but they did for the first 10K also. I have the Blose w/Nav. I plan to replace the amp and speakers and keep the head unit. Not a big deal for an experienced installer. The only integration between the Blose and NAV is the voice commands. I'm sure it isn't a problem to integrate that with another head unit.
rich

rdballer

04 is:

Coupe VINs up to D*4T160000,E*4T060000)
Roadster VINs from D*4T102001 to D*4T110000 & from A*4T002001 to A*4T010000

04.5 is:

Coupe VINs from D*4T160001, E*4T060001
Roadster VINs from D*4T110001, A*4T010001)

These are the specs from the tech info website regarding "service manual" selections for the 04 and 04.5. I believe the running changes for the 04.5 started showing up in 350Zs built 10/03 and later.

JoneZZZ

iTrader: (1)

'04 Touring/5AT/Coupe with NAVI.......7,000 miles....NO problems....and I love my Bose system(usually groovin' to CD's).