Buying Guide / 2009 - 2020
Nissan 370Z
The last naturally-aspirated Z car with a hydraulic steering rack. More power, better chassis, and SynchroRev Match. An analogue sports car in a digital world.
The last naturally-aspirated Z car with a hydraulic steering rack. More power, better chassis, and SynchroRev Match. An analogue sports car in a digital world.
The 370Z evolved the Z-car formula with the 3.7-litre VQ37VHR engine, producing 326bhp in standard form and 344bhp in Nismo specification. SynchroRev Match, which automatically blips the throttle on manual downshifts, was a first for a production car.
We've compiled 5 known issues for the 370Z in our database. The VQ37 is a proven engine, but the car shares some weaknesses with its 350Z predecessor. Here are the problems that matter most.
Go deeper: Run a free Carwise report on a specific 370Z to see which issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history, mileage checks and a personalised buyer checklist.
The 370Z carries over the same concentric slave cylinder design from the 350Z. The CSC sits inside the bellhousing, meaning the gearbox must come out to replace it. The part is inexpensive; the labour is not.
This is one of the most common failures on manual 370Zs. When the CSC fails, the clutch pedal loses pressure or drops to the floor.
Press the clutch pedal repeatedly and feel for sponginess, inconsistency, or any unusual noises. Ask when the clutch was last replaced. If the clutch is due, budget for a CSC at the same time.
The oil gallery gaskets sit between the engine block and the oil cooler housing. Over time they can degrade and leak, allowing oil to seep out. The leak typically appears on the passenger side of the engine and can be slow to develop but difficult to ignore once established.
If left unaddressed, oil loss can lead to low oil pressure and potential engine damage. The repair involves removing the intake manifold to access the gaskets.
Look underneath the car for oil drips, particularly on the passenger side. Check the oil level. Any sign of fresh oil around the middle of the engine block warrants further investigation by a specialist.
The dual-mass flywheel on the VQ37 produces a distinctive chatter or rattle when the engine is started from cold. This is a known characteristic of the 370Z and is generally considered normal behaviour.
The noise typically subsides as the engine warms up and oil circulates. However, if the chatter becomes significantly louder over time or persists when warm, the dual-mass flywheel may be wearing out.
Start the engine from cold and listen. A brief chatter that fades is normal. Persistent rattling when warm, or a noticeably loud clatter, suggests the flywheel may need attention. Budget £500-1,000 for replacement if needed.
The electronic steering wheel lock can fail, preventing the car from starting entirely. The steering column locks and the ignition will not engage. Nissan issued a recall for some models affected by this issue.
The fix involves replacing the steering lock actuator module. Some owners have had the module deleted entirely as a preventative measure.
Verify the recall status with Nissan using the VIN. Test the ignition cycle several times. If the car hesitates to start or the steering feels locked when it should not be, the actuator may be failing.
The electric window motors can fail, causing the window to move slowly, intermittently, or not at all. This is more of an inconvenience than a safety concern, but it is a common enough failure to be worth checking.
Operate both windows fully up and down during the viewing. Listen for straining or grinding from the motor. Slow or hesitant movement is a sign the motor is failing.
The 370Z refined the Z-car formula. More power, a better chassis, and SynchroRev Match is an engineering delight (though purists disable it). The VQ37 is a proven engine that responds well to modifications for those who want more.
The 370Z is the last of the naturally-aspirated Z cars and the last with a hydraulic steering rack, making it feel analogue and connected in a way modern cars cannot match. It is honest, mechanical, and deeply satisfying to drive hard.
With the Nismo version offering 344bhp and Recaro seats, there is a 370Z for every level of commitment. Prices are climbing as enthusiasts recognise what the 370Z represents: the end of an era.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Carwise Score.
Check a vehicle nowCompiled from independent expert sources, owner communities and our database of 5 known 370Z issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.
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