Nissan · Convertible · 2002–2009
Nissan 350Z Z33 Cabrio
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
★★★★★
2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants Engine Overview
The Nissan 350Z Z33 Cabrio is available with one engine variant at 280 hp.
3.5L Engine Change
2002 2007
Stay Away! 12 weaknesses
2007 2009
Be Careful 8 weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Front control arm bushings wear out The front control arm rubber bushings tear or detach from around 100,000 km. The control arm can then move axially, changing the toe angle and causing dangerous straight-line instability. Symptoms: Knocking or cracking at the front during cornering or on cobblestones, uneven tire wear, vehicle pulls to one side from 110,000 km | Low | |
| Rear differential mount bushings worn The standard silicone-filled differential mount bushing tears under hard driving. Identifiable by black silicone traces on the subframe. The differential then moves during driving. Symptoms: Loud clunking under hard acceleration or clutch engagement, rear axle feels unsettled, black residue visible on subframe from 100,000 km | Low | |
| Sway bar end links worn The nylon ball joint sway bar end links wear prematurely. The nylon bushings settle, the ball joints rattle. Problem occurs especially with spirited driving and after lowering. Symptoms: Metallic rattling or knocking at the front, especially when turning and on uneven road, increasing at low speeds from 80,000 km | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Nissan 350Z Z33 Cabrio have? +
The Nissan 350Z Z33 as Cabrio has 32 known weaknesses, 12 vehicle-related.
Which engine is recommended? +
Be Careful: VQ35HR (3.5L). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'.
Is the Nissan 350Z Z33 Cabrio worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Nissan 350Z Z33 Cabrio — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'.
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee