2004 Nissan 350Z

The 2004 Nissan 350Z is a popular sports car known for its sleek design and engaging driving experience. The 2004 350Z came with one engine option, the 3.5L VQ35DE V6, producing 287 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque. Available transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s performance and styling but sometimes complain about interior quality and some reliability issues.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light illuminated, and difficulty starting. This is a common issue with the early VQ35DE engines.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be observed.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. This is due to the timing chain tensioner failing to maintain proper tension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into specific gears, particularly 2nd or 3rd.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, electrical component malfunctions (e.g., headlights, wipers), and potential for the vehicle to stall.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IPDM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge reading incorrectly, often showing empty when there is still fuel in the tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sending unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming difficult to use. The plastic components inside the handles are prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Lid Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console lid latch breaking, preventing the lid from staying closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console lid or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bose Audio Amplifier Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of sound from the audio system, distortion, or complete failure of the amplifier. (Only applicable to models equipped with the Bose sound system)
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the Bose amplifier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Nissan 350Z is a sporty car with its fair share of potential problems. Engine issues like camshaft position sensor failure and oil consumption can be costly to address. Transmission problems, depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with a manual or automatic transmission, may also require significant repairs. Suspension, electrical, interior, and exterior issues are generally less severe but can still add to the overall cost of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect any prospective purchase.