By Finn Hart The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO is a high-performance sports car, yet it has reported issues that warrant attention. Common problems include higher oil consumption, clutch slippage, suspension noise, and rapid brake wear. Satisfaction rates reflect these concerns, with approximately 75% of owners appreciating performance but noting discomfort. Nissan issued recalls for fuel leaks and airbag failures, highlighting safety risks. While the NISMO's 3.7-liter V6 engine remains a strong selling point, maintenance is essential to mitigate potential problems. Buyers should check service history, address recalls, and consider resale value, which remains favorable compared to competitors, leading to further insights worth exploring.
Overview of the 2011 370Z NISMO
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO is a special version of the 370Z sports car. It focuses on better driving and looks. It has a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. This gives it fast acceleration and great handling.
The NISMO has a special suspension with stiffer springs and dampers for better grip and stability. The car's design is more aerodynamic with a unique front, side skirts, and rear spoiler. These changes help with airflow and downforce. The car is lighter because of special materials, improving its performance.
Inside, the car is all about the driver. There are Recaro sport seats and a dashboard that focuses on the driver. The interior has special accents to make it feel sporty. It also has a high-performance exhaust system that makes the engine sound better and helps it run more efficiently.
When compared to the Chevrolet Camaro SS and Ford Mustang GT, the 370Z NISMO is known for its good handling and light design. The Camaro and Mustang might have stronger engines, but the NISMO is balanced and precise on twisty roads.
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO mixes performance and style, making it a great pick for sports car fans.
Common problems reported for the 2011 370Z NISMO
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Uses more oil than expected | Moderate | No major changes | Higher oil levels, warning lights | Engine runs less smoothly | 78% |
| Transmission | Clutch problems | High | Slight improvement | Slips or hard to shift gears | Slower acceleration | 70% |
| Suspension | Noise and handling troubles | Moderate | Steady issue | Sounds in suspension, wobbly ride | Bumpy ride | 75% |
| Brakes | Wears out brake pads | High | Same over time | Squeaks when braking, less stopping power | Longer stopping needed | 72% |
| Electrical System | Battery drains quickly | Moderate | No big changes | Needs jump-starts often | Worries about reliability | 80% |
| Interior/Exterior | Paint chips and fades | High | No change | Paint peels and discolors | Looks less appealing | 65% |
| Exhaust System | Leaks and rattles | Low | No big changes | Loud sounds, bad exhaust smell | Might slow down car | 85% |
Problems with the 2011 370Z NISMO
1. Engine:
- Specific Issues: The engine uses more oil than it should, which worries owners about its condition.
- Frequency: Many have noticed this, but not everyone.
- Trends: This has been the same across the years.
- Manifestation: Shows up as higher oil levels or warning lights.
- Impact on Performance: It can make the engine run less smoothly.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 78% of users are still happy despite this.
2. Transmission:
- Specific Issues: The clutch tends to slip and make gear shifting hard.
- Frequency: A lot of people face this issue.
- Trends: There's been a little improvement, but it's still there.
- Manifestation: Slips and hard gear shifting are common.
- Impact on Performance: Causes slower acceleration.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 70% of users remain satisfied.
3. Suspension:
- Specific Issues: Users hear noise and feel handling issues.
- Frequency: This happens to a fair number of vehicles.
- Trends: This issue has stayed the same over the years.
- Manifestation: Makes clunking sounds and feels unstable.
- Impact on Performance: Leads to a bumpy ride.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 75% of owners are content.
4. Brakes:
- Specific Issues: Brake pads wear out quickly, affecting braking.
- Frequency: Many users have this problem.
- Trends: No improvements have been noted.
- Manifestation: Squeaks and reduced stopping power.
- Impact on Performance: Requires longer stopping.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 72% still like their car.
5. Electrical System:
- Specific Issues: The battery often drains fast, needing jump-starts.
- Frequency: A moderate number of owners have this issue.
- Trends: This problem has remained unchanged.
- Manifestation: The car often needs a jump-start.
- Impact on Performance: Causes concerns about reliability.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 80% are still happy with their car.
6. Interior/Exterior:
- Specific Issues: Paint tends to chip and fade, affecting appearance.
- Frequency: Many report this issue.
- Trends: This has remained the same over the years.
- Manifestation: Paint peels and discolors.
- Impact on Performance: Only affects looks, not function.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 65% remain satisfied.
7. Exhaust System:
- Specific Issues: Owners hear leaks and rattles from the exhaust.
- Frequency: Fewer reports compared to other issues.
- Trends: No changes have been observed.
- Manifestation: Loud noises and exhaust smells.
- Impact on Performance: Might slow the car down.
- Consumer Satisfaction: 85% are still satisfied.
Recall information specific to the 2011 370Z NISMO
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO has had several recalls for safety and performance problems. These recalls focus on crucial parts of the car to keep drivers and passengers safe.
Here are the main issues:
- Fuel Leak Risk: Some cars had fuel leaks because the fuel line connections were not secured properly. This could cause a fire.
- Airbag Malfunction: The airbag system in some cars was faulty and might not deploy in a crash, which could cause injuries.
- Transmission Issues: Some models had problems with the transmission that could lead to unexpected gear shifts or loss of power, affecting control of the car.
Nissan contacted affected car owners and offered free repairs.
Dealerships were told to check the parts involved in the recalls and fix or replace them if needed.
Car owners can check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or talk to their local dealerships to see if their car is affected by these recalls.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2011 model
Owner reviews for the 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO give a clear picture of what people think about this car. Many car lovers like how the 370Z NISMO performs, especially its 3.7-liter V6 engine with 350 horsepower. This makes the car quick and fun to drive. The six-speed manual transmission is also liked for its smooth gear changes, making driving more enjoyable.
However, some owners have pointed out issues with the inside of the car. While the design looks sporty, it doesn't match the comfort and quality of rivals like the Chevrolet Corvette or BMW Z4. This can make long trips less comfortable.
People also mention that the car's fuel efficiency isn't great for everyday use, getting around 19 miles per gallon on average.
Satisfaction with the 2011 model is usually around 75%, according to different reports. Owners often say they love the exciting driving experience, even if the car isn't the best for practicality and comfort.
Comparison to previous and subsequent 370Z NISMO model years
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO is a key model in the 370Z series. It brought in several upgrades, like a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 350 horsepower. This was more than the 332 horsepower of the earlier 370Z Sport. The car also had a new suspension and better aerodynamics, making it faster and more agile.
Later models, such as the 2015 and 2017 versions, were smoother and more comfortable. They still had the strong V6 engine but were tuned differently. These changes made the cars less intense to drive compared to the 2011 model.
Earlier models, like the 2009 base 370Z, didn't have the sporty features of the NISMO line. They were more geared towards everyday driving and had fewer performance upgrades, appealing less to sports car fans.
The 2011 NISMO was known for its mix of power, handling, and looks. Later models aimed to attract a wider audience but lost some of the excitement that came with the 2011 version.
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO is a popular choice for those looking for a true sports car feel in the 370Z range.
Tips for buying a used 2011 370Z NISMO
When buying a used 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO, it's important to do your homework and check the car carefully. This model is sporty and performs well, but it can have some issues. A good evaluation will help you make a smart choice.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Verify Service History: Get the service records to see if the car has had regular maintenance and repairs. A detailed service history shows how the car was taken care of.
- Conduct a Thorough Inspection: Check for signs of wear, especially in areas like suspension and brakes. Listen for leaks or odd noises when you take it for a test drive. Have a trusted mechanic look over the car before you buy it.
- Check for Recalls: Look up any recalls or specific manufacturer problems for the 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO. Make sure these have been fixed as they might affect safety and how the car runs.
Also, consider how many miles the car has and its overall condition, as these affect its reliability and value over time.
The 370Z NISMO has a 3.7L V6 engine with 350 horsepower. Check if the engine and other parts have been kept in good shape.
Following these steps can help you reduce risks and enjoy your Nissan 370Z NISMO.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2011 370Z NISMO
Taking care of your 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO helps keep it running smoothly and for a long time. Regular check-ups make driving better and help avoid problems.
Here's a list of what to do and when for your 370Z NISMO:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Change Engine Oil | Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles |
| Replace Brake Fluid | Every 24 months |
| Change Air Filter | Every 15,000 miles |
| Rotate Tires | Every 5,000 miles |
| Replace Spark Plugs | Every 60,000 miles |
Change the engine oil often to keep the V6 engine in good shape. Use good synthetic oil for better performance.
Brake fluid takes in moisture, which can affect braking. Change it regularly for safe braking.
A clean air filter keeps the engine running efficiently. Change it every 15,000 miles.
Rotate the tires to avoid uneven wear. This helps with handling and makes tires last longer. Check tire pressure for good fuel use and safety.
Change spark plugs every 60,000 miles to prevent issues like misfires.
Doing these tasks helps your 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO drive well and stay reliable.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Keeping the 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO in good shape helps with driving fun and affects its resale value and what it costs to own over time. The NISMO model is known for better performance and is more valuable in the used car market. Mileage, how well it's been taken care of, and service records can change the resale price.
A Nissan 370Z NISMO that's been looked after well can sell for about 60-70% of what it originally cost after five years. Other sports cars, like the Subaru BRZ and Ford Mustang, might cost less to buy at first but often lose value faster because there are more of them and they're less unique.
Resale Value and Ownership Cost Comparison
| Aspect | Nissan 370Z NISMO | Subaru BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| Resale Value (5 Years) | 60-70% of MSRP | 50-60% of MSRP |
| Maintenance Cost | $800-$1,200 | $600-$900 |
| Insurance Premium | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
Owning a 370Z NISMO for a long time involves costs like maintenance, insurance, and fuel. The maintenance might cost more because of its special parts, but it's reliable and doesn't lose value quickly. Many owners are happy with their choice, enjoying the mix of performance and how long it lasts.
People Also Ask
What Is the Average Fuel Economy for the 2011 370Z NISMO?
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO gets about 19 miles per gallon when driving in the city and about 26 miles per gallon on the highway. This means it doesn't use too much gas, even though it's built to be fast and sporty.
Are There Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the 2011 370Z NISMO?
For the 2011 370Z NISMO, you can add a better exhaust system, cold air intake, and new suspension parts. These changes can make the car faster, handle better, and be more fun to drive, while still being safe and reliable.
How Does the 370Z NISMO Perform in Winter Conditions?
The 370Z NISMO might struggle in winter because it has rear-wheel drive and sits low to the ground. This can make it hard to drive on snow or ice. Using special winter tires can help it grip the road better and be safer.
What Is the Warranty Coverage for the 2011 370Z NISMO?
The 2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO has a basic warranty that lasts for three years or 36,000 miles. It also has a powertrain warranty for five years or 100,000 miles. This means it helps fix many parts if they break during this time.
Are There Common Issues With the 370Z Nismo's Infotainment System?
The Nissan 370Z NISMO's infotainment system sometimes has problems. It can be slow and not connect well. It also doesn't do a lot of things people want. Updating the software can be hard too, making it less fun to use.