Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2021
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
The sentiment is generally positive, with the 370Z described as a reliable, fun, and capable sports car that can handle daily driving and spirited use.
8 problems reported (2 very frequent, 6 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentClutch Slave Cylinder (CSC) failure
The concentric slave cylinder is a known weak point, often failing and causing clutch hydraulic issues. A CSC delete kit is the recommended solution.
- Very frequentOil Gallery Gasket failure
Primarily affects 2009-2011 models, where paper gaskets can fail, leading to low oil pressure and potential engine damage. Requires engine-out service to replace with updated gaskets.
- RecurrentSteering Wheel Lock failure
An electronic failure that can lock the steering column, primarily noted in 2009-2011 models.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentFuel Starvation in right turns
A design flaw in the fuel tank causing fuel cut in long, sweeping right-hand turns, noted as unacceptable for a sports car.
- RecurrentAutomatic Transmission Valve Body issues
Noted in the VQ platform, causing shifting problems in automatic models.
- RecurrentClutch pedal assembly/spring
The stock clutch pedal feel and spring system are criticized as poor, often prompting aftermarket upgrades.
- RecurrentSuspension component wear
Bushings, wheel bearings, and other components wear out with age and mileage, leading to expensive repairs.
- RecurrentHigh Maintenance/Running Costs
Owners note expensive tires, services, and parts compared to mainstream vehicles.
The version owners recommend
The Sport Touring trim (or Sport trim in some markets) is recommended for its additional features. For later models (2013+), the facelift is preferred. The Nismo version is highlighted for its enhanced looks and sound. There is a strong consensus to avoid early model years (2009-2011) due to higher incidence of specific failures like the steering wheel lock and oil gallery gaskets.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ, Ford Mustang GT (S550), BMW Supra, Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G37.
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Overall sentiment
The sentiment is generally positive, with the 370Z described as a reliable, fun, and capable sports car that can handle daily driving and spirited use. It is praised for its stout VQ37VHR engine, which loves high RPMs and is considered solid with proper maintenance, capable of lasting well over 200,000 miles. The chassis is viewed as proven and capable, with good aftermarket support. However, the platform is also frequently criticized as feeling dated, particularly in later years, with feedback describing the driving experience as overly servoed and lacking connectedness behind the controls compared to more modern competitors. The car is acknowledged to have several specific, well-documented mechanical issues that are considered almost inevitable maintenance items rather than catastrophic failures. Owner satisfaction is heavily tied to purchasing at a good value, with significant criticism directed at the pricing and perceived lack of innovation in its successor model.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a heavier, more powerful, and more GT-oriented coupe compared to lighter, more agile competitors like the GR86/BRZ, which are seen as more engaging "driver's cars." It is frequently compared to the Ford Mustang GT, with the Mustang acknowledged as faster and having a more modern interior, but the 370Z is sometimes perceived as the more connected and analog driving experience, albeit still described as numb by some. The Infiniti G37 is noted as its luxury-oriented sibling, offering more comfort and features at the cost of some sportiness. Compared to the newer Nissan Z, the 370Z is seen as a more analog and simpler vehicle, with the new Z criticized for being a heavy, parts-bin update that failed to justify a dramatic price increase.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is recommended for engagement and as a theft deterrent. A 2013 or later model year is advised to get the facelift and potentially avoid some early issues. All models should be thoroughly checked for maintenance history. When purchasing, a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is considered essential to check for common failure points. For manual cars, a CSC (Concentric Slave Cylinder) delete kit is strongly recommended as a preventative measure, often paired with a new clutch and flywheel.
General recommendations
Suitable as a daily driver if one is prepared for the associated running costs, including premium fuel (E5/91+ octane), expensive tires, and higher maintenance items. It is recommended for buyers who prioritize a proven, naturally aspirated V6 engine and analog feel over cutting-edge technology and interior refinement. NOT recommended for buyers seeking the latest tech, a lightweight chassis, or the most engaging modern driving dynamics. Essential to budget for immediate preventative maintenance, specifically addressing the CSC and gallery gaskets on higher-mileage examples. Purchase price should heavily reflect the car's age and well-known issues; significant discounts are expected versus newer competitors.
Remarks
The 370Z's platform and fundamental design remained largely unchanged from its 2009 launch through 2020, leading to perceptions of it being "preserved in amber." This resulted in a mature, well-understood vehicle with extensive community knowledge for repairs, but also a feeling of being outdated against newer designs. The VQ37 engine is generally considered robust, but its longevity is entirely dependent on addressing the known failure points (CSC, gallery gaskets) and consistent maintenance, including using the recommended Nissan Ester oil. The vehicle's value proposition is considered strong at lower price points but weak at or near original MSRP, especially when compared to contemporary offerings. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning over a decade of production.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2009. Years to avoid: 2011, 2010, 2009Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Nissan 370Z years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 2 | 0 | vehicle speed control |
| 2018 | 2 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2017 | 10 | 0 | air bags |
| 2016 | 6 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 6 | 0 | air bags |
| 2014 | 20 | 0 | power train |
| 2013 | 34 | 0 | power train |
| 2012 | 32 | 0 | power train |
| 2011 | 80 | 1 | steering |
| 2010 | 220 | 0 | steering |
| 2009 | 153 | 0 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices2 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2018 · air bags:side/windowcampaign 18V153000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018 Nissan 370Z vehicles. The driver's side curtain air bag may have been installed incorrectly during production, possibly affecting its deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 214, "Side Impact Protection," and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
2011 · visibility:power window devices and controlscampaign 11V538000
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 AND 2012 INFINITI G37 COUPE VEHICLES AND CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 NISSAN 370Z VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 2, 2011, THROUGH AUGUST 29, 2011. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, THE POWER WINDOW SWITCH CONTROLLER IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WAS MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION.
Specifications
Nismo 3.7 V6
3.7L 6-cylinder · 350 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2017–2020