2007 Nissan 350Z
The 2007 Nissan 350Z is a sporty two-door coupe and roadster, known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and responsive handling. It was available with only one engine option: the 3.5-liter VQ35HR V6 engine, producing 306 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. Enthusiasts appreciate the 350Z for its performance, aggressive styling, and relatively affordable price point. Some common criticisms include a somewhat harsh ride, road noise, and interior materials that aren’t considered premium.
Engine
VQ35HR 3.5L V6
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than average oil consumption, especially on higher mileage vehicles. Symptoms include the need to add oil between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage if oil levels are not maintained.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and using a higher viscosity oil may help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the severity and repair required
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor can fail, leading to rough running, stalling, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the timing chain tensioner can cause a rattling noise, especially on start-up. If left unaddressed, it can lead to timing chain failure and severe engine damage.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
- Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, soft or spongy clutch pedal, or complete loss of clutch engagement.
- Solution: Replace the clutch slave cylinder. Consider replacing the clutch master cylinder at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Grinding During Shifts
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, particularly into 2nd or 3rd gear, even with the clutch fully engaged. This can be due to worn synchronizers.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. These issues are often related to the valve body.
- Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild. In some cases, a complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. The car may also feel loose or unstable in corners. Common culprits are the control arm bushings and sway bar bushings.
- Solution: Replace the worn bushings. Consider replacing the entire control arm if the bushings are heavily worn.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per corner depending on the parts replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and reduced handling performance. Leaking fluid may be visible on the strut or shock absorber.
- Solution: Replace the struts/shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+ for a pair, depending on the brand and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
- Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate fuel level readings, sometimes showing empty when the tank is still partially full. This can be caused by a faulty fuel level sensor.
- Solution: Replace the fuel level sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- BCM (Body Control Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, power windows not working, or issues with the alarm system.
- Solution: Diagnose the BCM and either repair or replace it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Hatch Strut Failure (Coupe)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch (coupe) will not stay open on its own.
- Solution: Replace the rear hatch struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Convertible Top Motor Failure (Roadster)
- Description/Symptoms: The convertible top fails to operate, or operates slowly and with difficulty. This can be due to a worn or failing convertible top motor.
- Solution: Replace the convertible top motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, with one side of the car blowing hot air while the other blows cold. Or no AC at all. Often accompanied by a clicking noise behind the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation System Issues (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Outdated maps, system freezes, or complete failure of the navigation system.
- Solution: Attempt to update the software or maps. If the system is beyond repair, consider replacing it with an aftermarket unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary: The 2007 Nissan 350Z, while a fun and sporty car, does have some common issues to watch out for. Engine issues such as oil consumption and timing chain problems can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can also be expensive, especially for the automatic models. Suspension wear is typical for a car of this age, and electrical gremlins can be frustrating. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the car inspected before purchase. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs. While costs can vary widely, some repairs, like engine rebuilds or transmission replacements, can be quite significant.