Hey everyone. Glad I found this forum and I'm hoping to become a Z owner soon. I've been hooked since my first ride in a 300ZX TT back in 1990 when I was 18. I've wanted a Z for about all of my adult life. I've been reading the forums listed here in this website and have a couple of questions.

First, as much as I like all the year models of the 350Z, I'm leaning towards the 2006-2008 years. Of all the trims, I prefer the Touring and Grand Touring the most. Premium Bose sound without a tape deck and as much as I like the look of the Navi unit, I have Navi units and an iPhone 5 so I wouldn't use it much more than pressing the "Accept" button on startup.

We've seen a blue 2006 Touring Roadster auto with 50K miles and are interested in it. Now, as far as the color- is the blue (what does Nissan call it), is it a long lasting color or prone to fading/chipping/peeling and other problems? The black top, I've read up on 2nd and 5th bow problems, is it any less durable than other year roadsters?

The auto trans ZRs- I know it depends on how it's been treated, but how is the '06 ZR 5MT in reliability? Has the tire-feathering been solved? Any suspension pieces I should keep an eye on? I have an antennae but where can I get a list of the parts to complete the hookup of the satellite radio? What are some products you could recommend for the leather seating and top?

I'm glad I found this 350ZR group and, again, I appreciate your help.

Ryan

 

Slyguy,
The paint on these cars are pretty durable. It depends on how the previous owner maintained the car (e.g. waxing, clay barring, etc.). I have a '05 Silverstone ZR and the paint looks very good. As far as the top, I haven't experienced any problem with the mechanics/hydraulics. I did replace the top back in October due to some minor tears.

I don't have any personal experience with the auto transmission, but my 6MT is holding up well. Bear in mind, I am not any aggressive driver nor do I track the car. It is more of a weekend toy to cruise around town. I haven't noticed much tire feathering. I purchase a lifetime alignment from Firestone and tend to get the car re-aligned around every 5,000 miles and monitor the tire pressure. Finally, for the top maintenance, I used 303 Aerospace Protectant & Cleaner Combo before switching to Raggtopp Cleaner. Hope this helps and good luck on your purchase.

 

Thank you SAP350Z for the reply. I'll be using it daily on the short commute to work and back. Hoping the Mrs enjoys it also. Thanks for your reply and information.
Ryan