Models · Nissan
Nissan 350Z Z33 buying guide
Nissan's two-seat, rear-drive coupé and roadster, sold in the UK from 2003 with a 3.5 V6, a six-speed manual and a limited-slip differential. The engine was uprated twice, and the known faults are well understood.
The versions
- 3.5 V6 'DE' engine, 276bhp at launch; 296bhp in the 2005 GT4 special edition and across the manual range from 2006
- Revised HR engine from 2007, 309bhp, recognised by a taller bulge in the bonnet
- Coupé from 2003, and a roadster with an electric hood from 2005 in Europe
- Base and GT trims; the GT added leather, electric seats, cruise control and a better stereo
- Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive, with a limited-slip differential on all UK cars
What to check on a 350Z
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Oil level and oil use
What to look for: Check the dipstick before the engine is started. Ask how often the seller tops up and how much it takes, and look through the history for the oil changes and any mention of a replacement engine.
Why it matters: The DE engine in earlier cars tends to use some oil, and the catalytic converters hide any blue smoke, so the dipstick is the only way to know. Running it low can damage the engine, which is why some cars have had a replacement. A seller who checks the level regularly is a good sign.
Oil pressure at tickover
What to look for: With the engine fully warm and idling, look at the oil pressure gauge. It should read at least 14 to 15psi. Lower than that is the thing to note, especially on a later car with the taller bonnet bulge.
Why it matters: On the HR engine an internal oil gallery gasket can fail and leak inside the engine, which lowers the oil pressure. The repair is a long job, and many cars have had it done, so ask for the paperwork.
A ticking noise that rises with revs
What to look for: With the bonnet open and the engine running, listen for a light tick that speeds up as the revs rise. Ask the seller to blip the throttle while you listen.
Why it matters: The usual cause is a worn fuel damper. There are two on the engine, and replacing the worn one cures the noise. It's a known 350Z trait and not a sign of engine wear.
Also in the full guide
- Gearbox synchros and the clutch
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 350Z
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Nissan.