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Nissan 350z Problems

The Nissan 350Z is a sports car that revived the Z nameplate from 2003-2009. With 1,626 complaints and 2 deaths recorded, reliability is reasonable for a performance vehicle. The VQ35DE V6 engine earned widespread praise for power and durability. Careful year selection helps avoid known issues.

1,626
Total Complaints
4
Total Recalls
7
Model Years
2
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2003
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

2008 2009

Common Problem Categories

Suspension 298
Power Train 286
Tires 224
Air Bags 178
Engine And Engine Cooling 158

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2009 12 0 0 0 Good
2008 56 0 0 0 Good
2007 172 0 2 4 Average
2006 134 1 18 4 Average
2005 204 1 24 2 Average
2004 354 1 26 0 Below Average
2003 694 1 14 2 Avoid

Nissan 350z Years to Avoid

The 2003 model year is the most problematic 350Z due to first-year production issues. Tire wear on rear tires was abnormally high in early cars. Transmission synchro problems affected manual gearboxes. Window regulator failures were common. The 2004 models improved but still show elevated complaint rates. Two fatalities are associated with the 350Z, reflecting the risks of a high-performance rear-wheel-drive car.

Best Nissan 350z Years

The 2009 model year represents the pinnacle of 350Z development and is the best choice. By this final production year, Nissan had refined the chassis and addressed early issues. 2007 and 2008 models received the HR engine variant with improved throttle response. These later models offer the best balance of performance and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions