REDLINE ALLEYNissan 350Z buying guide
2002 to 2008. A 350Z suits a driver after an affordable, loud rear drive V6 coupe who will watch the oil level.
Big jobs
- VQ35 oil consumption. Piston rings are called the weak spot, and some 2006 to 2007 cars and GT models with revised valve timing used a lot of oil. By the time the oil light comes on, damage is probably done.
- 6 speed gearbox synchros (early cars). Early cars can grind or crunch between 1st and 2nd, worst when cold. A buzz through the lever and a heavy change are normal.
Workshop jobs
- Clutch, master and slave cylinders. Clutch wear can start early, from about 40,000 miles. A pedal that goes down and does not come back points to the master or slave cylinder.
- Exhaust splits and rust. Exhausts split near the joins with the catalytic converters, and the joint between the front pipe and rear silencer rusts.
- Front compression arm bushes. Knocking from the front suspension usually comes from the lower compression arm bushes.
Small jobs
- Rear driveshaft clicking. Clicking from the rear axle is usually the driveshaft splines and is fixed by greasing and retorquing.
- Radiator fans (HR models). Radiator fans can stop working on the 313 hp HR models.
Questions for the seller
- How much oil does it use between services?
- Is it a DE or the later HR engine?
- Has the clutch or slave cylinder been replaced?
- Has the exhaust been replaced?
- Has the gearbox ever crunched into 2nd?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.