So I just bought my first 350z. It's a 2007 base model with the HR engine. From the beginning I've had minor problems but I expect that of any used car. However I'm now experiencing something I've not seen before.

While the car's running, of course, I can always see my exhaust coming from the pipes. No matter the time of day or the temperature outside or weather the engine's cold or hot. It's not a very thick cloud so it's definitely not smoke, but it's enough that it concerns me. It gave me a check engine light and I have my own OBD computer so I scanned it and it says "evaporative control purge valve" or something to that effect. I'm not sure if the problem's related to that but I wouldn't be surprised.

Has anyone had this problem or know what to do? Like I said, it's my first Z and at that I haven't had it very long...

Thanks for all help.

*UPDATE*
So I went out and did a bit heavier inspection of the car. when pulling the dipstick there were TINY bubbles in the oil it seemed. But they looked more like air bubbles to me. It also shows I have actually too much oil. Obviously I'll be draining some out, but might the exhaust cloud be the engine burning off extra oil??? Cause after going back to it today I realized the smell was oil. But I'm also terrified it could be hinting at a faulty head gasket...

 

Your post title mentions a "weird smell", but you say nothing about it. If the exhaust smoke is white, it's almost always water. And if it has a smell like antifreeze, you might have a blown head gasket or other problem that needs to be addressed right away.

 

Sorry I forgot to mention that. It smells a bit like antifreeze, but I also just had to replace the thermostat and in doing so got antifreeze all over. I figured the smell could have just been the antifreeze burning off the hot surfaces. Also, the oil looks clean so I wouldn't suspect a blown head gasket. Or at least I hope not...

 

I don't think a bad evaporative control purge valve would not lead to any additional noticeable exhaust. It is designed to vent the gas fumes from the tank into the engine to be burned instead of venting into the atmosphere. You probably should replace it though - I don't think it is an expensive part. Curious as to how long after you bought the car that the SES light came on?

 

...not long enough.
But I got a great deal on the car so I was expecting some issues, hopefully nothing too costly though.
Also, when I clear the code it pops back up almost immediately, even when I'm only idling, so unfortunately I can rule out anything simple like the gas cap...

 

Ive never had to do anything but replace a gas cap or fix a broken hose when it comes to EVAP issues. As far as the smoking I hope its nothing serious. Sometimes if cats are removed the cars will smoke a little but I guess its more like vapor from fuel. I guess if there is too much oil in there it could be going through the pcv system into the intake causing smoke? Good luck on figuring this thing out.