2011 Nissan 370Z

The 2011 Nissan 370Z is a rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its performance and distinctive styling. It came standard with a 3.7-liter V6 engine (VQ37VHR) producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque (350 hp and 276 lb-ft in the Nismo version). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic. People often praise the 370Z for its sharp handling, powerful engine, and aggressive looks. Common criticisms include a stiff ride, road noise, and some cheap interior plastics.

Engine

3.7L V6 (VQ37VHR)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. Blue smoke from the exhaust is also a common symptom.
  • Solution: A compression test and leak-down test can help diagnose the source. Depending on the cause, the repair may involve replacing piston rings, valve stem seals, or even the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $6,000+
• Camshaft Position Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the camshaft position sensor can cause the engine to run rough, stall, or have difficulty starting. A check engine light will illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, a soft or spongy clutch pedal, or complete clutch failure can result from a failing clutch master cylinder.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

7-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly can indicate a problem with the transmission’s valve body.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Rear Differential Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or thumping noise from the rear of the car, especially during acceleration or deceleration. This indicates worn or damaged rear differential bushings.
  • Solution: Replace the rear differential bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or grinding noise that increases with speed, often localized to one wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $600+ per wheel

Electrical

• Steering Lock Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel may lock, preventing the car from starting. A warning light or message related to the steering lock system might appear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering lock module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as headlights not working, fuel pump issues, or starting problems can be caused by a faulty IPDM.
  • Solution: Replacing the IPDM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles can become loose or break, making it difficult to open the doors. This is especially common on earlier models.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per handle

Interior

• Delaminating Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can separate and bubble, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: There is no permanent fix. Some owners replace the dashboard, use a dashboard cover, or have it repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ for replacement; varies for repair
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, freezes, or malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation unit or repair if possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Summary The 2011 Nissan 370Z, while a fun and sporty car, can suffer from several common issues. Engine problems like oil consumption and camshaft position sensor failures can be costly. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic, can also lead to expensive repairs. Suspension issues like worn bushings are typical for a sports car of this age and can affect ride quality. Electrical problems can be intermittent and frustrating. Interior issues like dashboard delamination are cosmetic but can detract from the car’s overall appearance. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of repairs when considering a 2011 Nissan 370Z.