IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2009–2012 Nissan 370Z (Z34)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2009–2012 Nissan 370Z (Z34). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2009–2012 period has 1 more issue than the Nissan 370Z (Z34) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Steering Lock Module Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Early 370Zs can suffer electronic steering-lock failure, which leaves the car unable to start even though the key is recognised.

Estimated cost: £0–£600Affects: 2009–2012

Typical symptoms

  • •No crank with the start button
  • •Key is recognised but ignition sequence will not complete
  • •Steering-lock warning or sudden immobilisation

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask directly if the steering lock has been replaced or bypassed
  • ✓Cycle the ignition several times during inspection
  • ✓Be wary of sellers who describe it as an intermittent battery problem

Concentric Slave Cylinder Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The internal clutch slave cylinder can fail suddenly, leaving the pedal on the floor and requiring gearbox removal to repair properly.

Most affected: 6-speed manual

Estimated cost: £900–£1,600Affects: 2009–2020Often appears around: 40,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Clutch pedal goes soft or stays down
  • •Difficult gear engagement
  • •Fluid loss around the bellhousing area

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive the car until fully warm and check the clutch pedal consistency
  • ✓Watch for any reluctance to engage reverse or first
  • ✓Ask if the CSC has been upgraded during a clutch change

Manual Gearbox Synchro Wear

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

A heavy but healthy 370Z shift should still be clean; crunching or baulking into second or third usually means the gearbox has had a hard life.

Most affected: 6-speed manual

Estimated cost: £500–£2,000Affects: 2009–2020

Typical symptoms

  • •Crunch into gear
  • •Notchy second-to-third shift
  • •Worse engagement when cold

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test both relaxed and faster shifts
  • ✓Check the gearbox from cold and again fully warm
  • ✓Listen for driveline noise on overrun

Buying Tips for the 2009 Nissan 370Z (Z34)

  • ✓On early cars, ask whether the steering lock module has been updated or bypassed because failure can leave the car immobilised.
  • ✓Manual cars should have a consistent clutch pedal hot and cold; any softness or refusal to disengage gears is a warning sign.
  • ✓Inspect tyres, brake discs and forged alloys carefully for evidence of hard track use or repeated kerb damage.
2013–2020 Nissan 370Z (Z34)

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Other Nissan 370Z (Z34) Year Periods

2009–20122013–2020

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