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Thinking about a used 04/05 Z

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Old 12-02-2009, 10:06 PM
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polyadam
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Default Thinking about a used 04/05 Z

Hello people, I am new to the forum and currently thinking about getting an 2004.5 or 2005 Z A/T. I've been reading a lot of threads and doing my homework to determine the major issues of the car and such , it seems my best bet would be to go with an 04.5 or 05. If my source is correct, the 04.5 models should have the tire feathering problem fixed which occurred on early 03 and 04s. However, I am not too sure about the window motor problem, any 04.5 owners have encountered such issue? As for the 05s, I believe only the Anniversary and Track trim have the rev-up engine that could have the oil consumption problem as with the 06 models. So, I should be good if I end up with an 05 Enthusiast or Touring, right? Any other issues I should be aware of regarding the 05 E or 05 T, people? Based on my research and budget, I have narrowed my choices down to 04.5 Enthusiast/Touring and 05 Enthusiast/Touring. Any precautions, help, and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Old 12-03-2009, 03:20 AM
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silvertouringz
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go for a TOURING if ur gettin it A/T...
Old 12-03-2009, 04:12 AM
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StevieZ
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Some of your research is incorrect and/or mis-understood; the tire feathering issue is really easy to remedy with a proper alignment so 03-04 should not deter you. However, in 05 it is supposed to be "fixed" (if you lower your car and put on wheels/tires - which most do - you'll need to align anyway). The window motor is an issue that is "hit or miss" in all model years (my 05 had it with 45K miles vs. my friends 03 Track with over 100 miles - never replaced). The oil consumption issue seems to be common, but some all no issues. Basically, there really is no difference between the 4.5 & 5.0 year (4.5 would be 5.0). I have the 05 Touring model and really happy with it. It met my budget for performance & looks. The heated seats are really nice on cold days too! But, quite frankly, I do not need the extras the Touring trim has - so you decide based on your budget, etc. In summary, I would not dismiss the 03 & 04 models. Personally, I would look at the condition & mileage compared to price/budget.
Old 12-03-2009, 05:10 AM
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davidv
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Excellent choice .Go for it.
Old 12-03-2009, 05:16 AM
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Blu Hvn
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I believe only the '05 Anniversary had the rev-up motor. The Track model did not.
Old 12-03-2009, 09:44 AM
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polyadam
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Thanks for the feedback guys. Sorry if this question is noobish, in regards to the warranty, do most people buy a used car warranty or extended warranty from the dealer or nissan? Just in case if i ever run into the window motor problem, and the fact I don't plan on spending $300-400 every time the window acts up.
Old 12-03-2009, 09:48 AM
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polyadam
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oh, and, any more tips would be awesome! I think i'll pick up a Z around Christmas time/end of the year, hoping to negotiate the price down by at least 1.5k.
Old 12-03-2009, 04:28 PM
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davidv
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Originally Posted by polyadam
Thanks for the feedback guys. Sorry if this question is noobish, in regards to the warranty, do most people buy a used car warranty or extended warranty from the dealer or nissan? Just in case if i ever run into the window motor problem, and the fact I don't plan on spending $300-400 every time the window acts up.
Funny thing about buying a warranty. If you buy one you will have 100,000 problem free miles. If you do not buy one the motor will explode.

Last edited by davidv; 12-03-2009 at 06:19 PM.
Old 12-03-2009, 05:29 PM
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Entaille
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getting or not getting a warranty is always a gamble. my car inspection went flawless and I opt'ed not to get a warranty. it's a car by car basis and how well you take care of it, really.

replace your own window motor. 150$, lifetime guarantee from most local parts stores. not a lot of labor involved.
Old 03-03-2010, 10:44 PM
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davidv
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How did the 350Z work out?
Old 06-03-2010, 02:37 PM
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davidv
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Oh not too good for you.
Old 06-04-2010, 09:56 AM
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PRuane
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^
Damn you bought a 370? Jealous.
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