Well just traded in the Z for a '03 BMW M3 with 6yr 100k mile warranty. Hope they get the tire feathering fixed

 

Thanks for clearing that up.

The Z certainly has some serious issues that need to be resolved. The tire feathering and suspension bounce both come to mind. I have both of these problem with my Z and while it doesn't take away from my love of the car, it WILL in the future if not properly addressed by Nissan. I will not keep a car that chews through $1000 worth of tires every 8000 miles. Nor will I be happy much longer with the bouncy suspension. There may be a solution in the aftermarket, but I will give Nissan a bit more time to work through these problems before I consider looking elsewhere. I think your reservations are justified regarding these two issues.

There have been others with transmission issues. The powertrain is always a serious issue, although I think only a very small percentage of owners have trouble. Isn't this a brand new tranny - meaning created by Nissan specifically for the Z/G35? I think the performance is quite exceptional given these circumstances. I would guess the failure rate is significantly lower than many other first year trannys. And since Nissan has had no problem completely replacing the transmissions in these rare instances, it seems to me that this issue should not be a big factor in your decision.

As for "the list" I find that laughable at best. I can go through and counter every last one if you like, but if you look at it objectively I won't need to. #10, #19, #20?! Are you kidding me?!

Yes, there are some problems. Most are minor and rare. A couple are more serious and widespread. And this all based on the "Problems and Maintenance" forum alone. I'll save the "one source of information" and the rest of my speech for next time.

 

It has become somewhat of a curiosity to me how people approach the decision to buy something - expensive things such as a car for the pure pleasure of owning it. A "thing" that is not a necessity but one of joy and adoration and the sheer pleasure of being able to say, "I have one of those" or "Yeah, that's mine". All well and great. If one has lots of filthy-greenbacks, its a non-issue, but a poor 'ol guy like me, I can sort of afford it, but its a little stretch. The quandary of deciding to buy this "toy" becomes two fold: (1) the cost is a little stretch - I have too many other financial obligations, but its just withing reach, and (2) quality. It is unacceptable to me, and I suspect that it is unacceptable to others.

What I have been reading from those that have already bought the car are in love with it (that's why they bought the car), but are griping about the "issues". Some issues are serious and some are minor/major irritations. The current owner does not want to seem dissatified, as he/she has spent anywhere from $26k to nearly $35k+, one would have to come to the conclusion that he/she were jipped and does not want to feel jipped. He/she might be feeling that a waiting game may have been more prudent. Maybe not. The car manufacturers relies on the consumer to fall in love with the look (I did) and just buy the damn thing. A lot of people has done that. But I also thing that those people with problems are also not happy campers, that is if they can REALLY be honest with themselves.

Can Nissan overcome these "issues"? Hope so, if they wish to continue to sell the car in large quantities. People are far more internet savvy nowadays then they used to be and are reading the "Problems/Maintenance" sections. And whether it is correct to look at only the P/M sections and not other sources is up to that person and whether this is biased or not and will give people false readings of the quality of the car will depend on the person. What the P/M points out is that there are serious issues with the first year production model. Yes, I've heard the argument that other cars, first year production model or otherwise have similar if not more serious issues. In my book that's a poor excuse. --- "Hey Mom, how come Frankie gets to play with a gun and I can't. I wanna do it too". There are problems pointed-out/magnified by current owners that Nissan simply cannot deny.

All the salespeople I spoke to pretended that there were absolutely no problems. It goes something like this - "We haven't had one Z come back for ANY issues". Good, glad to hear it I say. Do I believe them?


Although the Z is not a $100k car, it is a "thing" of great beauty nonetheless, and due to the price (relatively speaking), it is within the reach of the masses so to speak. The previous incarnation of the Z (last produced 1996 I believe), was in the range of $42K+. That kept a lot of would-be suitors shy of the Fairlady. But now, the Fairlady is a little loose, so to speak, and is available to general rifraff would-be suitor.

The "list" was something someone else put together in another thread. I simply copied and posted (credit given). I'm simply reading the list just like you are. You seem to have two of the bigger issue by your own admission. I applaud you for being honest and forthright. As for the list being laughable, that's fine. Not my list, and if something makes someone smile then that's a good thing I guess But yes, please do go ahead and counter each one-by-one. I am curious if nothing else. As for my objectivity, I am nothing buy objective and open minded and am willing to listen, but will pontificate likewise.

And I believe you were going to lecture me on "one source of information"

I am listening

Happy trails...

 

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Was the decision to trade based on:
-problems with the Z - just could take it anymore?
-no problems with the Z - just wanted the M3 more?
-combination of both

Just cusious

 

It seems to me that you might just be happier buying that Honda Coupe.

 

It was a based on the problems I had with the Z, I previously owned an '02 M3 and sold it after having it for about 4months only because I made money off the resale. I decided to try the Z out, and well a bit dissappointed but I guess I expected it because of course there is a $18k dollar difference, but I didn't expect the shitty service and problems from NNA and my local NIssan dealership. The paint chips were horrendous, the gearshift rattles and whine and of course the icing on the cake was the tirefeathering problem. I could deal with the other problems but when its starts costing me $$$ every 4000 miles its time to go. Well then of course came the resale value of the car, I've never taken such a big hit on any car I've ever owned. I really think making this car a 2seater really hampered it but oh well thats another story. I'm turning in my NNA customer survey and well it ain't going to look pretty, maybe that'll help out the rest of you.

 

Didn't you say you traded the car in?

It would be interesting to see what they turn and sell it for.

TBH I'd probably notice a difference going from a $50K car to a $30K car too.

For me, I went from a $22K SVT Contour to the 350Z so there was an improvement in build quality.

Sorry to hear your experience wasn't what you'd wished. I know if I experience the tire feathering I'd be pissed too. So far I'm at 3000 miles and no sign of it, but then I've had the car aligned twice just to be sure.

 

Thats my list and I compiled it to ID major and minor problems for Nissan and the dealers to use as a guide to correct the "teething" problems ANY newly introduced car has. If you will notice, 40% of the problems were reported by ONE owner. Most of the rest of the list are problems I consider minor, but in need of attention. BTW, you did not copy the number of owners who listed something as a problem. More than 1/2 of the other responses were from 3 or less owners, thats pretty small, I think.

The only problems that really count in my mind are:
1. Alignment-make your dealer align the car before you take delivery;

2. the Bose-which they acknowledge sucks and are working to fix; and

3. the Bounce-the rear shocks lack sufficient rebound control for many, by no means all, and the oscillation is magnified on poor roads. The 6MT is still being sorted and several owners have had theirs replaced, not repaired, replaced. They will have them sorted soon, I believe.

You want constructive criticism, you got it. I have been one of the most vocal critics and I am keeping my car, no matter how much I *****, because the performance is incredible and the styling makes everyone look, young and old. I'm 58 yrs old, this is the best sports car I've ever owned, my first new car was a 1965 vintage sports car, including my much loved 91 MR2Turbo.

Gordon at Koni tells me their shocks will be out in late summer or early fall to cure my bounce. Buy the car now or in 2004, but buy it. You will regret it if you don't. All I've read about the new Supra is it will have similar power and size as the Z. BFD, you can buy a new 350Z NOW.

Boomer--my opinion, use it or lose it, I don't care.

WE DID A POLL AND THE ENTHUSIAST WAS VOTED THE BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK, NO BOSE AND YOU CAN ADD NiSSAN-OPTIONAL LEATHER, NOW OR LATER.

 

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Yup, I agree. The car is magnificient looking. I am however curious, as so many others are as well, about how the Supra will look. I don't have any preconceived notions about how it will or how it should look, but if it looks decent, and is in the $30k range, I will more than likely lean towards getting it (Supra) than the Z.

Don't get me wrong. Its not that the Z is lacking in style. It is awesome looking, but the reason for Supra vs. Z (in my mind) is a difference between Toyota quality vs. Nissan quality. Anyone that has owned a Toyota knows what I'm talking about. Does that mean Toyota does not have ANY problems. Hardly. But of all the Toyota/Lexus owners I know, I personally don't know of a single person with a single problem on a new Toyota vehicle. Does that mean that a Toyota couldn't have a problem? Certainly not!

And I'm saying that I would buy a Supra (assuming same price range as Z) without having the slightest idea what a Supra looks like. I have a lot of faith in Toyota. I have owned more Nissans than Toyotas (1 camry); so just to be clear, I have tremendous faith in a Toyota, whether right or wrong.

Right now I'm pretty undecided what to do. I want to have the Z so I can drive it for the summer, but no matter what patience is a virtue. I'm not going to buy a Z or any other car just because it looks great. I suppose if the Z were without some of the problems listed, we wouldn't be having this conversation, and I would be driving it during my lunch hour at work. But fact is what it is.

Watch, I'm saying all this about the Supra; I'll probably end up buying the Z this weekend.

 

I'm glad Boomer posted in this thread as he was the author of the list. I think he helped put the list in perspective. When you put the number of complaints beside each problem and realize 40% are from one owner, you will see why I called it "laughable." This forum contains a wealth of information, however it is not without fault. "The list" is a great example of how data can be portrayed inaccurately as there is no way to collect accurate information from all (and only) Z owners. The P/M section is a result of the vocal minority. While helpful it is cetainly not gospel.

Nissan is aware of all 3 major problems with the Z: Bose, bounce, and tire feathering and I'm counting on them to resolve them. They have done a fine job in the past with other vehicles and I trust they will continue with the Z. I would not hesitate to recommend the Z to anyone, although I would suggest they skip the Bose, get an alignment before buying, and open a case with NNA should it exhibit the bounce.

You are right, the new Supra COULD be an extrordinary car! Being second to market certainly has it's advantages. Couple that with Toyota's commitment to quality and you COULD have a real winner! I say 'could' because at this point it is all pure speculation. There are no numbers, no test drives, not even pics! Hardly something worth holding your breath...

Patience IS a virtue. But while some wait patiently, current Z owners will be spending the summer shifting gears and carving corners. Surely there is some value in that. There will always be something "better" on the horizon. Don't spend your whole life waiting.

Edit: My avatar is a shot of Daler Mehndi in one of his videos. Click here.

 

I understand your feelings about Toyota reliability. I had an MR2Turbo for 7 years and 128, 000 miles with the same turbo, etc. I have owned one Toyota and several Nissans. Your last statement sounds like me, no impulse control at all. I want it now! Hah!

Really, despite my rants, which are directed at Nissan rather than the Z itself, I love the car and I'm enjoying driving it more every day. I have been taking it out in the early evening for a drive and just running through the AT's manual mode just to hear the exhaust note. Music to my ears, irresistable.

 

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No, I would like to buy the Z knowing it doesn't have the major problems. It would be great if the Z had the same quality as the Honda Coupe, BUT it doesn't.

I would like to buy the Z so I can use it for the summer, so if its going to happen, its gotta happen soon. Otherwise, the decision has to wait until next year. If I were to get the Z, it only gives me at most 6 months of usage of this type of car. Don't plan to drive it in the snow/rain (Cleveland weather you know).

I want the Z with the Honda build, which the Z does not have right now. Yes, yes, its the first year and everything for the Z, but that's not good enough of an excuse.

 

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I would agree, the Enthusiast is what fits my bill the best. Price, options, etc... I have a BOSE in my '00 Maxima, and am very happy with it. It is very disconcerting to hear that BOSE is not up to par on the Z. Too bad! If the Z becomes a reality, my plan is to put on the aftermaket leather (dealer will give it to me at cost - $850) and then spend another $1M on the stereo system

Live long and drive your Z.

 

There's already been some advice on this matter. Make sure you get the car aligned when you take delivery of it to prevent the feathering issue. Get your custom stereo and then you'll be laughing.

Not many cars do. I suppose you could buy a S2K or wait for the Supra.

Ah, the sweet joys of living in Texas, where the winter lasts all afternoon.

Act now! Join in the FUN!

Yep, that's a good idea. I had my one mishap in my Z on the one day of winter we had here in Texas this year. Rear end caught some ice on an off ramp and I slid into a concrete wall. Luckily I was only going 5mph at the time and there was only very, very light damage. But I still wanted to cry.

Will a Nissan ever have the build quality of a Honda or a Toyota?

Meanwhile you're missing out on all the fun. Like this morning lining up at a light on the way to work against a Saleen Mustang, a Cobra, and a GT (though the GT did back off very quickly out of respect).

 

Will a Nissan ever have the build quality of a Honda or Toyota?

All 3 of my Maximas, 89, 92 and current 99 have been just as good as my 84 and 88 Prelude and my 97 Accord. My 91 MR2T, too.

 

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I know the "LIST" was long, and that most of it are minor issues. There was no attempt on my part to skew the data to make it seem that each issue was a major one, but simply to point out that there is more than just a few of them, whether they be minor/major. All in all, there are only a handful that I'm going to be a stickler for.

- transmission - Its good that NISSAN is replacing these, but nonetheless having to deal with this must be a sinking feeling for the owner. One likes to have a prestine car.

- tire feathering - totally unacceptable to me. Don't want to spend a G every 8 to 10K miles on tires. Totally unacceptable.

- bounce (this is a trade-off between superior handling vs. cushy ***-ride). Its a sports cars, so there is some excuse (albeit a not so good one) for the bouncy-bouncy ride. I think someone pointed out (I would agree) the shocks don't match the springs. Someone (design engineer) did'nt do their job/homework (probably didn't pass DFQ class with an 'A') in designing the suspension. Some bounce is justifiable. If its a true sports car, I would expect some bounce, I guess, but from the sounds of it from others, it may be excessive. Don't know. I have no experience with it. If ts supposed to be a "true" sports car, its meant to be driven on smooth roads, and not so much on the typical Cleveland type, winter damaged roads (pot holes galore).


The new Supra could be the Z slayer, if pricing / styling is on the money. Pricing - if in the 30K, this will hurt Z sales, for sure. I don't care how someone shouts how much of a Z-loyalist they are. Style - Not sure. This is the big question mark. As you said, there's nothing out there right now to look at. If I have to wait till October for the preview, it'll to be too late for me to decide. Its difficult to wait in anticipation based on nothing. Style might be great, but out of price range or vice-versa.

 

I don't doubt that.

When I stack my Z up against my girlfriend's Honda Accord Coupe the build quality appears superior in my Z. Her car rattles a lot, which is one of my biggest pet peeves.

My previous comment was more in reference to industry wide statistics such as the latest JD Power and Associates quality survey for the US car industry which was recently released, outlining the best car plants from around the world (Nissan being respectably mid-table).

--

The top rankings of corporate families have been released, these are as follows:

1. Toyota (Including Lexus)
2. Porsche
3. BMW
4. Honda
5. General Motors
6. Nissan
7. Ford Motor Company
8. DaimlerChrysler (Including Mercedes Benz
9. VW
10. Hyundai
11. Suzuki
12. Subaru
13. Kia

--

 

I Love My 350Z. I haven't had anymore problems with this car than any other new car I have owned. Only problem so far is a buzzing in the dash area, which I will have fix at my next oil change. All cars are going to have some little thing wrong. Weather it be a rattle, buzz, bad seal somewhere, defective battery, tires, that were not rotated and balanced when required and so forth. That's what the 3 year 36,000 mile warranty is for. Fixing problems or quality control issues. Most car makers have other companies making these parts and all they do is assemble them. All companies are going to have the defective part which is not caught get out of the plant one time or another. Look at any forum related to any car and you are going to read about someones problems with that vechicle. It doesn't mean they all have the problem. Even cars being recalled usually only effect certain VIN numbers, not all. But if there is a problem with the design and they all are recalled, at least that shows the manufacturing company is addressing the issues. My advise to anyone wanting to buy their dream car is do it. Life is to short. If it doesn't work out sell it after a year or so and at least you tried it. Who knows you may just end up with that one that never breaks and goes for 300,000 miles before anything major needs a repair. Could Happen!

 

I got my Z in mid Jan of this year. it's a Touring AT. After a few weeks I asked the dealer to correct the pulling to the right. My first oil change I asked the dealer to get rid of the rattles in the dash and rear hatch. No problem. I am not wild about the radio, but the car has not shown any signs of tire feathering, pulling either way, trans problems, or any problems of any kind.

I have a great job, I am in sales so I am constantly in the car, city and highway driving. The way I look at it, I make good money and am able to drive a car that exceeds all expectations. Can't ask for much more.

Last year I saw a black boxter, I knew I was going to get one till I saw the Z at the dealers lot. I sold my triple black eldo etc to get the Z. absolutely no regrets whatsoever...

My wife drives a seville sts. She can keep it.....

Good Luck

 

I bought my 350Z Canadian Performance model January 11th and I have ~8000km or 5000 miles and the only issue I have with my vehicle is the grease on the drivers window.

I can understand why some people are complaining about the stereo. After listening to the Mark Levinson stereo in the 430SC my stereo pales in comparision of course the 430SC is also twice the price of my car

However that said, I made the choice to sacrifice the luxury to buy the performance ... the 350Z has the performance and the stereo is luxury

I am very happy with my car and my joy in driving it grows every day

Regards,
Kevin