Datsun 240Z / 260Z Problems by Year
The S30 Fairlady Z is a quintessential classic sports car. While mechanically simple and very reliable for its age, it is notorious for hidden rot in its unibody structure.
Select a year below to see the specific problems affecting that model year, with estimated repair costs and severity ratings.
1
Year Periods
4
Known Issues
2
Serious Faults
2
Moderate Issues
Select a Year Period
Browse Datsun 240Z / 260Z in our Directory
View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Datsun Datsun 240Z / 260Z.
View Datsun 240Z / 260Z DirectoryBuying Tips for the Datsun 240Z / 260Z
- ✓Check the "doglegs" (the area in front of the rear wheels) and the floor-to-sill joins for soft metal.
- ✓Ensure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly; L-series engines are famously "sweet" when tuned correctly.
- ✓Look for signs of water ingress in the cabin, often caused by perished window seals or blocked scuttle drains.
- ✓A "California Import" is often a safer bet for a project car, as UK-original cars have suffered through decades of salted roads.
- ✓Upgraded electronic ignition is a common and highly recommended modification for modern reliability.