2009 Nissan 370Z

The 2009 Nissan 370Z marked a significant evolution from its predecessor, the 350Z, offering a more refined and powerful driving experience. It came equipped with a 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque (350 horsepower in the Nismo trim). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic. Enthusiasts generally praised the 370Z for its responsive engine, sharp handling, and aggressive styling. Common complaints often revolved around the stiff ride, limited cargo space, and road noise.

Engine

3.7L VQ37VHR V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. The issue seems more prevalent in earlier model years. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, smoky exhaust, and the need to add oil regularly.
  • Solution: The solution varies, ranging from using a thicker oil to replacing valve stem seals or piston rings. A compression test can help diagnose the severity of the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the severity and the chosen repair.
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor can fail, leading to rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting the engine. The check engine light will illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: This is a well-documented issue. The internal slave cylinder located within the transmission housing is prone to failure, leading to clutch pedal sticking to the floor, difficulty shifting, or complete loss of clutch function.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch slave cylinder, often with an aftermarket external slave cylinder conversion kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (more for external conversion)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the slave cylinder issue, the clutch master cylinder can fail leading to soft or spongy clutch pedal feel and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission valve body, leading to harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear shock absorbers can wear out prematurely, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps. Leaks may be visible on the shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Differential Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The differential bushings can wear and crack, causing clunking noises from the rear of the vehicle, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the differential bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+

Electrical

• Steering Lock Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The electronic steering lock mechanism can fail, preventing the car from starting. This is a common issue with Nissan vehicles of this era.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering lock assembly or reprogramming the immobilizer system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found, but some owners have reported that Nissan may have covered this issue under warranty extensions in some regions.
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors can fail, leading to false low tire pressure warnings on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty TPMS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor (depending on if purchased individually or as a set)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly the driver’s side, can become loose or break, making it difficult to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Delaminating Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced the dashboard delaminating or bubbling, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for a cover) - $1500+ (for replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Nissan 370Z, while a fun and engaging sports car, is not without its potential issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the clutch slave cylinder in the manual transmission models, excessive oil consumption in some engines, and potential electrical problems like the steering lock malfunction. Suspension components like rear shocks and differential bushings can also wear out. The costs of repairs can vary widely, from relatively inexpensive sensor replacements to more substantial engine or transmission work. While not all 370Zs will experience these issues, prospective buyers should be aware of them and inspect the car carefully before purchase.