12 problems related to manual transmission have been reported for the 2003 Nissan 350Z. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Nissan 350Z based on all problems reported for the 2003 350Z.
Shifting from 2nd gear - 3rd gear there is always a grind and I've searched on the internet and this needs to be a recall due to all the complaints that have been said on various websites.
The contact owns a 2003 Nissan 350z. The contact purchased the vehicle only for long distance driving. As soon as she began driving the vehicle, she smelled rubber inside the passenger compartment. The dealer stated that the smell would dissipate and was present because the vehicle was new; however, the odor remained. While driving 60 mph, the vehicle would not shift from second into third gear. The failure occurred without warning. The vehicle coasted to the side of the road and was towed to the dealer. The dealer stated that the clutch and the fly wheel were burnt. The contact called Nissan customer service to assist with the cost because it was no longer under warranty; however, they denied her claim. She wants Nissan to assist with the $2,300 repair cost. The failure mileage was 17,000. Updated 11/7/08 updated 11/13/08.
Transmission problems-grinding between 3rd and 4th gear sometimes in 5th when clutch fully engaged. Dealership stated to change flywheel and clutch. After about $1300 repairs, grinding still exists and Nissan unwilling to replace transmission.
Grinding getting into 2nd and 3rd from 3k rpm to 6k rpm. No problem if under 3k rpm but I was under the impression I was purchasing a "sports car". I've had the car for 15k miles bough used with 40k on it but after warranty had expired. I am waiting to save for the cd009 transmission so I can replace with the "upgrade" and do the clutch all at once. Thanks Nissan!.
2003 Nissan 350z.
The 3rd gear was grinding then second started to grind too therefore I had the transmission rebuilt at my expense and other transmission problems persist and also have the tire feathering/tire growl issue which I've took the car varies times to the alignment shop.
I have a 2003 Nissan 350z and I'm having problems with grinding when I shift into 3rd gear(manual) I have only 20k miles on my stock car no major modifications done. I have taken it to Nissan and they tried to duplicate the problem but nothing was found and when they told me to drive it I found my car shifting like butter I was amazed on how smooth it was. After a few days the problem is back like it was temporarily fixed or something because it gradually started getting to where it was before I took it in. Now I don't know if I should take it back or am I stuck. I have done some talking with other "z" owners on a well known message board and over the years hundreds have got their transmission replaced and hundreds haven't depending on dealerships.
Purchased a brand new 2003 350z clutch blew at 9000 miles 11000 miles later clutch go's again this is not just the clutch its the transmission which makes this a horrible problem which means this is probally a lemon I recommend no 1 to purchase a 350z manual u must get automatic.
The consumer experienced transmission problems. When driving in 5th gear, he was unable to change gears. Approximately 500 miles ago, the vehicles third gear blew out while driving.
Various things gone wrong with this car: -rack and pinion / steering pump failed at 4000 miles. Car refused to steer when at idle. Very dangerous. Replaced under warranty after 2 weeks. -two transmission replacements. Second transmission replacement requires new flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure plate. Both under warranty. -uneven tire wear. Dealer told me that I'm a "young speed racer" and that I need to "slow down". Denied my appeal for new tires, I bought new, wider rims and tires, alignment, and problem went away. Tire sizes are 245/40/18 and 275/40/18. Bridgestone potenza s03. No feathering after 11000 miles. Unfortunately, this car is not very safe. . . And Nissan service / customer service is very uncourteous and rude in their approach to the situation at hand.
350z manual transmission howls when the car is first started. The car displays the condition when it has sat overnight and when it idles out of gear without the clutch depressed.
Transmission problem with my 2003 Nissan 350z. 3rd gear synchronizers are defective. Did a research and found hundred of other brand new 350z's having the same problem. Recall must be done.