11B Z Noobie

I just picked up an 03 350Z auto with 60K miles on it, and no mods on it. I got it at a good price from a reputable dealership. It had a clean carfax, and drove like a dream. 300 miles since I bought it down the road and it started chugging when the car would come to a stop. It sounded similar to old muscle car V8 and not the smooth note I was used to. The service engine light came on shortly there after. Anyone have any Idea what could be causing this? I will have it looked at asap.

davidmcc

iTrader: (5)

Could be any number of things, best bet is to take it somewhere that can pull the codes, only then will you know whats wrong.

350 Rookie

iTrader: (29)

Take that **** back and have them look for it. DONT pay for anything. You have the right to return any used car within 30 days.

11B Z Noobie

I am going to head out to AutoZone today and have them check the code for me since they do it for free. I am also going to contact the dealer I got it from. I am not new to working on cars, but I am new to the Z. It's still under warranty from the seller so if It is a big repair I will have them fix it. Anyone have any idea what would cause it to idle rough? I will post what happens with it.

11B Z Noobie

Autozone said it's "Intake valve timing (IVT) control circut failure bank1" Probable cause 1. IVT control solenoid open or shorted 2. Cam/Crank sensors out of phase 3. Dirt buildup at control valve. It will be back at the dealership I got it from tuesday. Until then it wont move. If they don't fix it they can take it back via the lemon law. I really want this to work, but I am not going to force it to work.


How reliable are these cars for others here?

Brrcats

iTrader: (10)

they are fairly reliable in my mind, I havent had an issue in the two years I"ve owned mine.

I dont trust dealers though and bought through private party

11B Z Noobie

I am quickly loosing my trust with dealers also. I have 160,000 miles on my old Acura and the dealers were always friendly and helpful. I hope Nissan is the same.

dkmura

iTrader: (64)

Very reliable. I've had my pre-order '03 Z since October '02 and have virtually no problems. Other 350Z owners report the same experience. The Nissan VQ engines feature advanced electronic controls and a sensor failure can cause problems. Always use 91 octane fuel.

11B Z Noobie

91 Octane? Is it ok to use higher octane? I usually find 92-96. I always get the highest octane they sell unless it's 100+ octane "race" fuel. I get the feeling that if I can work out the issues that it will be rock solid for me.

11B Z Noobie

I am glad to say. I got it all worked out. The car is fine now, and I hope to keep it and drive it for a long time. I almost feel like I make up excuses just to take it for a drive now.