I just bought my 03' 350z last week. As far as i can tell everything is fine other than when i try and shift to 3rd quickly it grinds a little. At first i thought it just did it at high rpms like above 5k, but i shifted fast to 3rd under 3k rpm's and it still did it. I had planned on taking to the dealership to check it out since i have a warranty, but if someones had this problem and its nothing to worry about then i wont bother.

 

Of course it's not normal. Good news is, it's convered under factory warranty (unless you're over 60k miles). I hade mine replaced at 47k miles.

 

Take it back. Warranty the transmission for a replacement if you still can.

 

I was nervous to take mine to a dealer because it seemed like a big hassle but apparently since Nissan pays them labor, etc... they didn't even bat an eye.

If one dealership refuses or tries to tell you it's "normal" take it to another dealer.

 

Alright, thanks. Its barelly under 60k, but when i bought i got one to 100k so i doesnt matter.

 

I bought my Z used too. It had that same problem when I got it. A buddy of mine just bought his 03 Z a month ago also with 18k on the odometer. It also has the 3rd gear grind.