2010 Nissan 370Z

The 2010 Nissan 370Z is a two-door sports car known for its sharp handling, potent engine, and distinctive styling. It came standard with a 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. A higher performance NISMO edition was available with 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Z’s engaging driving experience and attractive price point for its performance, but some common complaints revolve around road noise, a stiff ride, and limited cargo space.

Engine

3.7L VQ37VHR V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2010 370Z owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. The engine may exhibit symptoms like blue exhaust smoke or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: The specific cause of oil consumption can vary, and diagnosis may involve leak detection, compression tests, and cylinder leak-down tests. Repair options may include replacing valve seals, piston rings, or in severe cases, engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed timing chain tensioner can cause engine noise (rattling, especially on startup) and, in severe cases, timing issues that affect engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace 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 Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, and potential clutch engagement issues can indicate a failing clutch master cylinder.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to a master cylinder failure, a failing slave cylinder can result in difficulty shifting, a soft pedal, and engagement problems. Can leak fluid.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch slave cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete failure to shift can be indicative of valve body problems within the automatic transmission.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body. In some cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Differential Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear end, especially during acceleration or deceleration, can point to worn or damaged rear differential bushings. Handling can also feel loose or vague.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear differential bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The IPDM controls various electrical functions, and a failure can cause a range of issues, including starting problems, lighting malfunctions, and other electrical component failures.
  • Solution: Replacement of the IPDM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles on the 370Z, particularly those made of plastic, can sometimes break or malfunction, making it difficult to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation System/Radio Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the factory navigation system or radio unit, including screen malfunctions, software glitches, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2010 Nissan 370Z, while a fun and capable sports car, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues like oil consumption and timing chain tensioner problems can be costly to address. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic’s valve body and manual’s clutch hydraulics, can also be a concern. Electrical gremlins and suspension bushing wear are other areas to inspect. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can lead to significant repair bills. Potential buyers should consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing or potential problems.