Hi All. I could use some advice. I just bought my first 350z and it's the first time I've driven one. It's a 2003 Touring edition. It seems to me that the steering is really tight and turning in either direction requires effort. Is this how it's supposed to be? It almost feels like a power steering issue. Any feedback's appreciated.

 

Welcome and congratz!
My 1st observation would be "heavy steering effort" is subjective. What's heavy to one might seem normal to another.
Things to check-
Are the front tires 225 wide?
Are the front tires inflated to psi stamped on sidewalk?
Is there a belt driving your power steering pump?
Is the fluid topped off?
Gl!

 

I appreciate the feedback. I'll look into the things you mentioned.

 

Try steering with the car off, is it easier with it running? If no change then there is definitely a problem. What’s your mileage?

 

Right about 86K

 

I tried it with the car off and on and it's definitely better with the car on. It's pretty evident when I'm driving slowly or if I try to swerve back and forth while driving. I can only move a few degrees to either side before there's noticeable resistance. I'm thinking it's probably normal and I'm gonna have to get use to it, though it's not bad. I may have my power steering flushed and looked at just to make sure there's no leaks or something off. Thanks for your help.

 

+1 to what @jhc said about tire size and inflation, additionally, is it on stock wheels?

If the scrub radius is altered because the car is on wider tires and/or wheels with a different offset this can make the steering heavy.

Good luck.

 

I just bought a 2004 and I noticed it right away, but I like the heavy feel and to me it makes the ride feel engaged with the road. my steering wheel definitely does not move an inch unless I move it, solid.