Hi Everyone-
I picked up my Performance 350Z last Wednesday. I have one concern - the steering feels kinda heavy, especially at low speeds (or from a dead stop). Is there something wrong with my car, or is that normal? I dont' mind it as long as it is performing as designed. Let me know your impressions.
Thanks,
Mika

 

In my experience, w/3 Maximas and now a 350Z, Nissan steering is heavy at low speeds and begins to lighten as your spd increases. Its especially heavy if you try to turn the wheel sitting still; so I am always moving when I turn the wheel.

 

The steering does feel a bit heavy at low speeds, the simple solution, don't drive slow! The Z has amazing handling at high speeds.

 

Perfect. Thanks for the info. Like I said, the steering doesn't bother me, as long as it's working as it should.
The car is really awesome.
Mika

 

I wish it was heavier... eheh.

I still like the Z32 steering feel.

 

Yeah, its suposed to be heavy, its very sports car-y, like the brakes being firmer than most cars. It heavy but tight, not light and loose.

 

I think the problem is the RPM sensitive steering instead of speed sensitive., but I could be wrong

 

I don't think so... I could've sworn the steering is speed sensitive. I don't recall RPM sensitive.

 

The Nissan website claimed "engine speed sensitive" steering. Why they would do that I can't imagine. It could have been a typo...
Mika

 

I asked this question way back when. Someone explained and I'll try to find the thread. If I recall, it just means that the power steering pump adjusts the boost according to RPM. Since the pump runs off the drive belts, if it didn't adjust then you'd have a lot more boost when you rev the engine, which would mean really loose steering. So "engine speed sensitive" steering is just a basic feature of modern power steering systems.

 

See zPilott's post in this thread about engine speed sensitive steering: https://my350z.com/forum/showthread....speed+steering