I don't want rumors, I want facts.
My friend is considering buying a 2003 Z and wants to know if there is any major mechanical issues or TSBs that are important to know..

Don't tell me to go the 350Z forums because I don't know which one is the official one..

thanks guys!

 

The only thing I can think of to say, you don't want to hear, so...

I don't know, the biggest problem with the 350Z that I know of is that it's not an S2000.

 

You just got started here... you really should go to a 350Z forum. Why would you ask a question like that here? That seems like the best way to get rumors and speculation. Why go to a doctor's office and ask for legal advice? Go to see an attorney!
How did you find this website? I know if you google the phrase "350Z forums" you will find something.

 

The only two big problems I can think of are tire feathering (inner portion of the tires wear a lot faster than the rest of the tire), and (someone please chime in to correct me) transmission failure. I would advise against a 2003 350Z since it was a first model year and like any car, including the S2000 kinks need to be worked out. Check the TSB service history on the car. You might be lucky.

Other than that, it's a fantastic car. Great looks, and great sound. I have my eyes on either the new Z or G37 coupe when it comes out for I need a bigger car.

 

Check out my350z.com . That is the "official" forum and a lot of knowledge to be gained there.

As I was reading about them while purchasing a car, what I have read is to steer clear of the 03s. Spend the extra couple of thousand to get a 2004 where the transmission problems were mostly resolved. There are also tire wear problems.

There is a difference between being able to buy a car and being able to afford a car. If your friend can only buy the 2003 and somehow, the extra bit for the 2004 is out of his league, I would keep saving up. It's a nice car, however.

 

Abnormal tire wear problems due to alignment issues.

 

http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/

List of 350z probs

 

engines being replaced, i thought bout them
but i second my350z.com

 

I own a 2004 350Z Roadster and yes tire feathering is an issue that I believe they resolved with the 2004.5/2005 model year. Also some folks have complained of alignment issues. There have been reports transmission problems as well.

Also, if it is a roadster check to see if the top has been replaced - there have been seam separation issues in the earlier years. (Just got a brandy new top under warrantee).

I agree with checking out my350z.com - there is a wealth of information regarding issues/model years. The best place to get advice on any car is an owners forum specific to the car your looking for.

Good luck!