Nissan Z
Current gen (See guide)
The Nissan Z is one of the most rewarding sports cars you can buy used, with strong engines, rear-wheel drive, and a long production history that gives you plenty of options at every price point.
- ReliabilityMixedYear-sensitive
- Ownership cost$$$Brand typical
- Insurance$$$Moderate
- Repair difficultyModerateDealer or indie
- Typical lifespanLong if maintainedHistory matters
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011
- Best years
- 2004, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2017, 2023, 2024
- Top failure
- 370Z electronic steering column lock failure, 2009-2011 (highest NHTSA complaint volume per NHTSA data; 2010 worst by Ca
- Recommended tire
- Michelin CrossClimate2
- Must check
- VIN recalls + PPI
Years to avoid
See the linked years-to-avoid guide for worst (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011) and best (2004, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2017, 2023, 2024) model years.
- LayoutNissan Z
- CharacterSee guide
Engines
Which powertrains hold up — and which to walk away from.
- Year-dependent
See years-to-avoid guide
All
Reliability swings by model year — use the linked guide for the full map.
Transmissions
- Mixed
Automatic (typical)
Most years
Confirm service history and closed recalls on used examples.
Ownership metrics
- Top failure theme
- 370Z electronic steering column lock failure, 2009-2011 (highest NHTSA complaintWorst-year cluster.
- Safer window
- 2004, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2017, 2023, 2024Best years in the guide.
- Must check
- Recalls + PPINon-negotiable.
Factory tire sizes
| Size | Years / trims | Best all-season | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| See owner's manual | Common OE Many trims |  All-weather tire pick. | Live prices |
Recommended tires
Recalls
Run NHTSA by VIN
Multiple
Always confirm open campaigns before purchase.
Check recalls
Maintenance
| Interval | Service |
|---|---|
| Pre-purchase | Full PPI + recall check |
| Per schedule | Factory-spec fluid service |
Should you buy one?
Prefer 2004, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2017, 2023, 2024. Approach 2006, 2009, 2010, 2011 with extra caution.