Trim / Codes

The Nissan 350Z coupe was produced from 2003 to 2009, with a significant update for 2007 that introduced the higher-output VQ35HR engine, revised suspension tuning, and updated exterior styling. Earlier models used the VQ35DE engine, which is known for oil consumption and valve cover gasket leaks. Common service items across all model years include timing chain tensioner wear, clutch replacement, suspension bushings, and spark plug maintenance. Pre-purchase inspections typically focus on oil consumption, exhaust manifold cracks, and transmission condition.

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  2005

  The 2005 Nissan 350Z coupe uses a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 paired with rear-wheel drive, available with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, and trims range from Base and Enthusiast to Touring, Grand Touring, Track, and 6MT. Typical maintenance focuses on the timing chain system, spark plugs and ignition coils, valve cover gaskets, and monitoring for oil consumption. Manual examples see clutch and throwout bearing wear, while the viscous or helical limited-slip differential requires periodic fluid changes. Suspension bushings, brake rotors, and cam or crank position sensors are also common service items on higher-mileage cars.

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  2003

  The 2003 Nissan 350Z coupe uses a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. Typical maintenance focus includes the timing chain system, spark plugs, and valve cover gaskets, with some engines known for elevated oil consumption. Manual-transmission examples often see clutch and flywheel wear, while suspension bushings, differential bushings, and wheel bearings commonly require inspection with age. Regular fluid changes for the transmission, differential, and cooling system are standard upkeep items.

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  2006

  The 2006 Nissan 350Z coupe uses a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine rated at 287 horsepower, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. Trim levels include Base, Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring, and Track, with the Track edition adding Brembo brakes and a viscous limited-slip differential. Typical maintenance focus areas include oil consumption, timing chain tensioner wear, camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and spark plug condition. Manual-transmission examples may need clutch replacement at higher mileage, and differential bushings and suspension components are worth inspecting as the car ages.

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  2007

  The 2007 Nissan 350Z coupe is rear-wheel drive and pairs a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Trim levels include Base, Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring, and NISMO. Typical maintenance focuses on the timing chain system, spark plugs, valve cover gaskets, and differential and transmission fluid changes. Manual examples often see clutch wear, and the VQ35DE can consume oil between services.

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  2004.5

  The 2004.5 Nissan 350Z coupe uses a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 rated at 287 horsepower, mated to either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. Trim levels included Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring, and Track, with the Track model adding larger brakes and a viscous limited-slip differential. Typical maintenance focuses on the timing chain and tensioner, spark plugs, and fluid changes for the transmission and differential, along with monitoring for oil consumption. Brake fluid flushes, coolant replacement, and suspension bushing inspection are common service items as these cars age.