Hello people. Well, I'm looking into purchasing a Z, problem is I don't have any experience with them. My price range is kinda maxed out at 20 grand or so, obviously that means anything I buy is going to be decently old.

So the real question is what do I need to look out for, things like common flaws with model years or changes in the mechanical systems. I live in Alabama so all my driving buddies around here either ride motorcycles with me or drag muscles and hot rods. Needles to say they're no real help on the subject.

Any relevant information from seasoned, knowledgeable Z owners would be appreciated.

(FYI, don't really bother w/ anything pertaining strictly to the convertible since I wouldn't buy one anyways.)

 

Welcome. this forum has lot of good info about VQ.

 

+1, welcome. To save you some trouble, I suggest you bounce around here and read up on the years/models you are interested in. Really, there's no "one thing" to spot a lemon-Z. The most prevalent issues that come to my mind are:
1) oil consumption
2) tire feathering
3) erections lasting more than 8 hours
4) clutch recalls for '07 models
5) people accosting you on the street or your driveway asking about the car
6) etc., etc.


All-in-all, I recommend you try to find one either (1) not modified (as in never modified, not returned back to stock) or (2) FI'd. Most of the turbo junkies baby their cars and sell them soon after they install the snails for some reason.

Either way, have fun looking for your Z! Don't force a purchase if it doesn't feel right. There are plenty of cherry ones out there to be had. Our community is one of the most ****-retentive bunch out there.

 

Yeah it'll probably be a while before I buy anything, I'm one picky *** buyer when it comes to vehicles. Like a woman in a shoe store, lol. I have a list of what the perfect one for me would be and I'll wait till I at least get close.

Anyways, thanks you two for the replies, I didnt realize the scope of info on here before I posted that. I'm already finding tons of great stuff under other threads

 

If you save up $5k more you can get a brand new one.

 

Give consideration to the RSX. 100,000 problem free miles.

 

you would be surprised mang, 20k can net you a very gently used Z of your choice.

 

You get get a 07, possibly an 08 with a HR motor for 20. The market is great right now, happy hunting.

 

Another “Thinking about getting a 350Z” waste of time.