As title states, I'm looking to trade my RX8 for a 350Z very soon.

I just wanted to hear the opinions from others on which year of the 350Z was the most reliable, or had the least number of "screw-ups" so to speak on the drivetrain/suspension/electricals??

I think I heard that there was a problem with the shifting in the 2003 model year, but when I went to test drive two 2003 models, I didn't experience any problems.

And i know they upgraded the horsepower during the 2005/2006/2007 models, but anything else I should know??

Any input/advice is appreciated!

Also, if you're interested in selling your 350Z, or even better, wanting to trade your 350Z for my RX8, click the link in my sig below! Thanks!!

 

07+ VQ35HR 350z that come with Brembo which is GT pkg I think.

 

07+ would be better choices.. 2008 if you can.

the 07 has slave cylinder recall(some, not all), and airbag fix

and yea the 07 and 08 have HR engines, more horsepower and higher redline.

 

Nice RX8.

-2003-2005 suffer from shitty window motors that leave streaks up and down your window, and damage tint like a snail walking up and down the window.

-2003-2006 transmissions are crap, unless they've been replaced to the revised 009 version transmission. The syncros often go bad resulting in a nasty grind when shifting. It's replaced under powertrain warranty free though if you're in the 5yr/60k range still.

-2006 engines often suffer from an oil consumption issue, but it is also replaced under powertrain warranty for free if you're in the 5yr/60k range still.

-2003-2005 engine rev limiter is at 6600, 2006 z's are 7000, and 2007-2008 z's are limited at 7500. All transmission gearing is the same.

-2007-2008 have a vastly revised engine (VQ35HR), and are much more responsive to mods/tuning. The 06-08 Z is 150-200lbs heavier than 03-05, but 07-08 is still it is a faster car (much more power). 2006 rev-up motor isn't much better than the 03-05 non-rev-up motor. My lightly modded '03 has pulled on '06 z's.

-2006-2008 have revised headlights/tail lights, and a nicer interior.

When buying a 350z, make sure it has at least VLSD or aftermarket LSD, and OEM brembo brakes or aftermarket BBK upgrades. If you're buying a car out of manufacturer warranty, check the service records to ensure it's transmission/engine have been replaced if there are any recalls (ie 03-06 transmissions, and 06 engines). 03-06 transmissions ALL suck-***, and will break eventually... then put in the 009 tranny

 

hmmm okay. thanks a lot! ^^ that last post sure helps.

so in your opinion (ONCE I CAN SELL MY CAR!) should I go with which of these two choices (taking cost into consideration):

(1) http://sanantonio.craigslist.org/ctd/1215062259.html

(2) http://austin.craigslist.org/ctd/1189648167.html

 

Welcome to the forum. Happy Z hunting. Have a good read through the forum, there's a wealth of knowledge.

 

Dude i have the window streak issue on my 08 Z... I just assumed that I did something wrong in installing my new speakers, but if its defective, is it covered by the warranty? Ive seen it make the same marks on my tint

 

That is a nice looking RX8. You must love the Z to let this go. I wish you find a good deal.

 

I love my hr revs forever and looks like you can get graphite in your area. lucky.... all that was in my area was silver or black for the hr's when i got mine

 

^ woah! really? where? I can't seem to find any 07/08's with manual transmissions anywhere within 75 miles of San Antonio. Fill me in!

 

I am firmly convinced that the window streaks are from Nissan recommending their service people grease the living **** out of everything that moves in the window track assemblies because the motors are pieces of crap and they want them to outlast the warranty. Just my $.02 but I have had one motor replaced and one go through the reset procedure to get rid of it reversing itself at the top and both times, the window streaking returned with a vengeance. Would not stop me from buying the car again but highly frustrating.
For the OP - a lot of it comes down to your budget. Quite a price difference between an '03-08, and most '03's are going to have substantial mileage on them. Also, do you plan on modding it? Daily driver? Etc etc.

 

I will mod it a little bit, and yes it will be my daily driver. My dad said he'll help JUST A LITTLE bit if I get an 07 or 08, but I'd still have to pay for most of it after selling my RX8. I think I'm leaning to getting a 2003 just so I can have some extra money after my sale to use for college.

 

50K miles on an '07??? Jesus that is a lot. I was going to say go with that one till I saw that. I wouldn't want one as old as the other with that many miles either. Just be patient and something good will come along.

 

welcome

 

Im in the market for a Z as well. How much different is it driving the base (no lsd) vs the other models that have it?

 

Join Date: Jun 2009

Time is up. What did you get?

 

i'm guessing he got an RSX instead

 

i suggested he get wood trim so maybe he's having a hard time finding one.

 

i got the rsx back in 03. I joined this forum alwhile ago cuz i love the 350z!

Quick question, how much does it cost to replace the brembos on the track model?

Right now i have a base thats in my price range, and a track that might be in my price range lol.