Hello everyone,

I've been a member here for years but this is my first post hah (I think). I am in the market for a 350Z finally (I used to own a 240SX). I am looking in the 14k and under price range and want at least a 2004, so it will probably be an 04 or 05 from what I've seen so far.

I have looked around the forum for a sticky or something on common issues or things to look for when buying a used 350Z but I didn't find anything. Any help is greatly appreciated and thanks in advance!

John

 

No one ever complains here that's for sure.

 

I don't understand what you're saying. Bump?

 

+1

Best years for the Z are '05, '07, '08 and the '09 roadster. However im sure all those will probably be out of your price range. Spend the extra $$$ and you will be sure to appreciate it.

 

You can find '05s for under 14k.

 

Save the extra money (or deal with the higher payment) and buy an '07. If you're like 90% of us on these forums, stock isn't going to cut it for you. Here's my own personal experience. I was looking to save some $ after finally getting rid of my DSM. Found a low mileage '03 with great paint for an awesome price. Loved it at first, after owning it for a month or so and viewing other members' Z's on these forums, the wish list started.

1. You will learn to hate the '03-'05 headlights. The '06+'s not only look better cosmetically, but perform better as well. Sure you could always upgrade to them if you wanted...to the tune of at least $800.

2. Tail lights are just tail lights. But if I had to choose between LED or non-LED. I'd choose LED. I don't trust ebay-quality lights, tack on another $400 for either JDM or '06+ OEM tails.

3. Wheels. Let's face it. The OEM '03-'05's 17" wheels are boring. So are the 18" tourings. I believe in buying quality. Not saying I'm on the volk bandwagon, but any decent size decent quality wheel and tire package is going to be $2500+. The economy sucks man, chances are you don't have that lying around waiting to be spent on wheels. Nothing to be ashamed of, but you're probably going to need some time to save. At least you wouldn't hate looking at the stock 5 spokes that come on the '06+ models while you save.

4. Brakes. Unless you're buying a track model, 06+ non brembo's are better performing than the previous models. Again I'm speaking from the average joe standpoint. But spending 2k+ on a BBK for cars that don't see any track or show duty is silly to me. Get the better performing set up from the factory, and all you have to do is maitenance for a fair street set-up.

5. Interior. While none of the 350's hold a candle to the new 370's interior, the '06 plus interior is at least a step up from the '03-'05's. Especially the door panels.

6. Motor. I haven't researched much on the rev-up. I don't own one, so maybe someone else could chime in here. I have however seen the HR's response to mods in comparason to the DE. HR blows it out of the water. My buddy's HR with a tune, drop in filters, and cat-back walked away from another friends more modded DE Z.( cold-air, spacer, test pipes, headers, exhaust). More speed for less $ invested wins in my book any day.

I'm sure there's more things I'm missing, and feel free to correct me if I was wrong on anything. I don't know your intentions with your Z. But If you do plan on modding in the future, set yourself up with the best platform you can.

Good luck with your decision.

 

So any real reason to go with a 2007 over a 2006?

 

You might want to do a little search involving some or all of the words "rev-up" and "2006" and "oil consumption."

And yes, the 2007 has a new version (80% new parts) of the Z engine.

 

I don't hate my 03 headlights.

at least I don't think I do?

 

1st Post! ^_^

Hmm, I'll add to the question in this, hopefully it doesn't seem to go off topic... dont want to steal it haha

What should one look for into buying a Z, I have heard about the window motor failing at some point, is there anything else to look for in particular? (I'm looking at an 05 to buy)

 

OK so after 5 years what did you get?

 

I don't think it's been 5 years but I still don't have a Z. At the time I decided to just enjoy what I had since it was a pretty nice car.

Anyways.. I was in an accident that totalled my old car (sad face) so now I'm back in the market. I was almost dead set on a S2000 but a Z was tied with it on my list. After driving both, I've fallen in love with the Z's so that's what I'm going to get. I have some more money saved up now and I am looking at a 2007!

So.. is there anything that I should look for in particular with this car before I buy it? Any common problems, etc? This forum really could use a sticky with the answer to this question. I have been searching for an hour and still no solid answer.

TIA!