2006 Nissan 350Z

The 2006 Nissan 350Z is a sporty two-door coupe or roadster known for its rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, and responsive handling. It was offered with a 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine producing around 287 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the 350Z’s engaging driving experience and distinctive styling, while some common complaints revolve around road noise, interior quality, and certain mechanical issues. The vehicle was available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

VQ35DE 3.5L V6

• Camshaft Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature camshaft wear, leading to reduced engine performance, rough idling, and potentially a ticking noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn camshaft(s) and potentially related components like lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2006 350Zs experience higher than average oil consumption.
  • Solution: Could be related to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Repair options range from using heavier weight oil, to replacing the piston rings or valve stem seals, or replacing the whole engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a rattling noise, especially upon startup. If left unaddressed, this can cause significant engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, soft or spongy clutch pedal, or complete loss of clutch function.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Differential Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Can also lead to imprecise handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear differential bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud humming or grinding noise that changes with vehicle speed, sometimes accompanied by vibrations.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, reduced power, and/or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, engine stalling, reduced power, and/or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, especially on the driver’s side, are prone to breakage due to wear and tear on the plastic.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Lid Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch on the center console lid breaks easily, preventing the lid from staying closed.
  • Solution: Replacing the entire center console lid or attempting to repair the latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Nissan 350Z is a generally reliable sports car, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine problems, such as camshaft wear and timing chain tensioner failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission’s valve body, are also a concern. Suspension issues like rear differential bushing failure can affect handling and create unwanted noise. Electrical problems such as faulty sensors may arise. Interior and exterior issues are less severe but can still be annoying. The severity and cost of these common issues can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.