Thinking about buying a used Nissan 370Z (2002–2021) in New Zealand? We've documented 18 known faults for this model spanning engine, suspension, transmission, and fluid leaks. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
18
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$400–$1,800
Typical repair
5
Systems covered
Known Nissan 370Z faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01VVEL Variable Valve Lift Actuator Failure
CriticalCommonEngine $2,000–$5,500 to fix
The VQ37VHR engine uses Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system on the intake camshafts. The VVEL actuator motor and its worm-gear drive mechanism are prone to wear and failure, particularly in high-mileage or irregularly maintained examples. Failure causes the engine to enter limp mode with severely reduced power, a rough lumpy idle, and a cluster of P1800-series fault codes. Actuator replacement requires removal of the cam cover and in severe cases major disassembly. Parts alone can exceed $1,500 NZD. This is the single most significant documented mechanical fault of the VQ37VHR platform.
Symptoms to notice
Sudden severe loss of power — engine enters limp mode with very restricted revs
Rough lumpy idle as if misfiring, particularly at light throttle
Check engine light with P1800, P1802, P1804, or related VVEL fault codes
Hesitation and stumble when pulling away from rest under light throttle
VDC or traction control warning lights illuminating alongside the check engine light
What to check
Scan for fault codes before test driving — P1800-series codes are diagnostic of VVEL failure. Test idle quality with the engine fully warm; a good VQ37VHR idles smoothly at approximately 650-750 RPM. Apply very light throttle from a standstill and feel for hesitation. Request service history with confirmed oil change intervals — dirty oil accelerates VVEL mechanism wear.
Where to look: VVEL actuator assembly on the intake camshaft of each cylinder bank, beneath the cam covers
Ask the seller
“Has the car ever entered limp mode or shown P1800-series fault codes?”
“Has the VVEL actuator or any variable valve timing component been replaced?”
“Can you provide service records confirming regular oil changes?”
02Rear differential pinion/cover oil seepage
MinorCommonFluid Leaks $250–$900 to fix
The Z34 370Z rear diff commonly weeps oil from the pinion seal and diff cover gasket, worsened by hard driving and heat cycling. Left unchecked it can lower diff oil level and cause bearing whine.
Symptoms to notice
Oily film on rear diff housing
Fresh oil drips under rear centre
Faint gear whine at speed
Burning oil smell after a spirited drive
What to check
Inspect the rear differential pinion seal and cover for wet oil film, check diff oil level and look for drips on the underbody and exhaust heat shields.
Where to look: Rear differential housing, under centre-rear of vehicle
Ask the seller
“Has the rear diff oil ever been changed or topped up?”
“Is there any whine from the rear at highway speed?”
SuspensionCritical
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
EngineMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMajor
SuspensionMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
TransmissionMajor
BrakesMajor
TransmissionMajor
TransmissionMinor
TransmissionMinor
TransmissionMinor
EngineMinor
16 more documented faults on the Nissan 370Z
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 18 documented faults for the Nissan 370Z, the recurring problem areas are engine, suspension, and transmission. A Nissan 370Z with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Nissan 370Z?
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We've catalogued 18 known faults for the Nissan 370Z, covering engine, suspension, and transmission. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Nissan 370Z?
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Most single repairs on the Nissan 370Z fall between $400–$1,800 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 18 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Nissan 370Z?
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Yes. A Nissan 370Z inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.