An in-depth Nissan 370Z buying guide for UK enthusiasts

Ah, the Nissan 370Z – a car that whispers sweet promises of adrenaline and nostalgia to the JDM enthusiasts across the UK. This machine isn't just a car; it's a ticket to an amazing community, a lifestyle, and for some, a canvas for personal expression. Before you dive into the world of 370Zs, let's get you up to speed on what to look for, how to navigate potential pitfalls and why sometimes, the road less travelled (think Cat S, Cat D, Cat N cars) might just be your path to automotive bliss.

The common quirks and fixes

Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) Failure:
Picture this: you're about to engage in a symphony of speed, but your clutch has other plans. The CSC in manual 370Zs can be a party pooper, refusing to disengage properly. Fear not, for this is a well-trodden path. The fix? A high-quality aftermarket CSC. Think of it as swapping out a fragile wine glass for a sturdy pint mug – it just makes sense. More about clutches and ancillaries HERE.

Steering lock failure:
There's nothing quite like the feeling of being ready to go, only to find your car won't start because the steering lock's thrown a tantrum. Early models were notorious for this. The solution is a straightforward swap for a new unit, and it's worth checking if this has been done. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind. There are also lots of workarounds available, check our extensive guide HERE. 

Rust on the W brace and kidney brackets:
The UK isn't known for its dry climate, and unfortunately, our beloved 370Zs can wear the battle scars of many a wet winter, particularly on the W brace and kidney brackets. Inspection and replacement with more resilient parts can save a lot of headaches down the line. Consider it an investment in longevity.

Oil gallery gaskets taking a holiday:
Early 370Zs can suffer from the oil gallery gaskets waving the white flag, leading to a drop in oil pressure. It's a tricky fix, requiring a bit of surgery on the engine, but addressing it with updated gaskets can ward off future woes. If you're eyeing up an early model, this is a must-ask question.

Keep an eye on the extras:
Suspension components, exhaust systems and fluid changes (think differential and gearbox oil) need your attention too. If the car's been modded, delve into the who, what and when. Good mods can be great; bad mods can be a headache, like lowering springs making the car undriveable on some narrow roads in UK with lots of speed bumps.

Rear axle click:
A common issue found in almost all 370Z with a well-documented fix that should be on your radar. This peculiar noise, often heard during takeoff or reversing can be resolved by replacing the axle nuts, greasing the shafts and applying the correct torque setting as per Nissan's specifications. Some owners also recommend cleaning and greasing the axle splines with a high-quality lubricant as part of the process. This fix not only eliminates the clicking sound but also ensures peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the drive without any unwanted background noise. We've put together a fix pack HERE.

Why a Cat S / Cat D / Cat N 370z could be your best bet

Now, let's talk about the elephants in the room – Cat S / Cat D / Cat N car. These are the vehicles that have been bruised, but are far from broken. With proper repairs and thorough documentation, they can offer unparalleled value. We're talking about getting more car for your cash and who doesn't love a good deal? Just make sure the repairs are top-notch. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can turn a potential gamble into a savvy investment.

Navigating the insurance maze

Insurance – it's not the most thrilling part of car ownership, but get it right and you'll save enough to maybe tick off another mod on your wish list. Modified 370Zs can see insurance premiums soar, but fear not; there's a hack. Specialised insurance brokers are your best friends here. They get it. They understand why you'd want to upgrade your exhaust or tweak your suspension. They'll often offer more competitive quotes for modified cars than your run-of-the-mill insurers. So, do your homework, chat with a broker who specialises in performance cars, and you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised at the quote. See a thorough list we organised HERE.  

Where to hunt for your 370Z

Now, about finding your 370Z. While Nissan dealerships and large car traders might seem like the obvious choice, I'll let you in on a secret – UK enthusiast forums and Facebook groups are goldmines. Why? Because cars sold here are often the ones pampered, cherished and maintained meticulously. These are the sellers who will list every service, every mod and probably every time the car made them smile. It's not just a transaction; it's passing on a legacy. Plus, buying from an enthusiast means you're stepping into a community that's ready to offer advice, support and maybe even friendship.

Thinking long-term: The modding masterplan

If you're already dreaming of the mods you'll add to your 370Z, here's a piece of advice: think long-term. Planning your modification journey isn't just about what you want now, but what will make your 370Z uniquely yours in the future. And sometimes, finding a Z that's already had high-quality mods can be a stroke of luck. Not only does it save you the legwork (and the waiting time for parts), but it can also be incredibly cost-effective. Upgrades like twin turbo kits or superchargers can be a hefty investment, so if someone else has already done the work (and borne the expense), why not benefit from it? Just make sure the work's been done to a high standard – remember, quality over quantity.

Service and maintenance

When navigating the world of Nissan 370Z ownership, especially when it comes to maintenance, upgrades or the inevitable hiccup, knowing where to turn for trustworthy service is key. While TORQEN itself doesn't perform mechanical work, our role in the 370Z community goes beyond supplying top-tier parts. We serve as a beacon, guiding owners to a curated list of recommended garages. These establishments aren't just any run-of-the-mill service centres; they are specialists who share a passion for the Z series, equipped with the expertise and experience to tackle everything from complex installations to routine servicing and diagnostics. Unlike generic Nissan dealerships, these garages understand the nuances of performance car care, offering a personalised and knowledgeable approach to keeping your 370Z in prime condition. TORQEN's partnership with these garages ensures that owners have access to not only the best parts but also to professional installations and services that uphold the highest standards of quality and performance.

Mapping / performance tunning

In the realm of tuning and performance enhancements, the only software tools available the Nissan 370Z OEM ECU are EcuTek and UpRev. This powerful two tools unlock the full potential of the 370Z, allowing for precise adjustments to engine parameters, optimising performance to suit individual preferences and modifications from High Flow Cats, full exhaust, intakes, bored out throttle bodies all the way to complex supercharged or twin turbo installations. Potential buyers should exercise caution with garages claiming to offer mapping services for the 370Z if they're not known or recommended in the Z community. In most cases, these services fall short of actual performance enhancement, as they lack the capability to modify the essential parameters within the 370Z's OEM ECU. For those looking to enhance their 370Z, consulting with an approved EcuTek or UpRev dealer is crucial. A comprehensive list of approved dealers, who are vetted for their expertise and integrity in mapping and tuning, can be found on the EcuTek and UpRev websites, providing owners with peace of mind that their car is in capable hands

Why the 370Z is more than just a car

Buying a Nissan 370Z is more than just acquiring a car; it's about entering a world where performance meets passion, where every drive can be an adventure and where the car you drive says something about the roads you choose to explore. Whether it's a pristine, showroom-fresh model, a Cat S / Cat D / Cat N project filled with potential, or a lovingly modded masterpiece, your 370Z is waiting for you.

Meets and shows

Embarking on the journey of owning a Nissan 370Z opens the door to a vibrant and diverse car culture in the UK, one where events and club meets play a pivotal role in uniting enthusiasts. Imagine the thrill of showcasing your Z or simply admiring the array of models on display, at events such as Japfest – the largest gathering of Japanese cars in Europe, where hundreds of well-loved Zs attend in various club stands every year. It's not just about the cars; it's about the people, the stories and the shared passion that brings everyone together.

Then there's the allure of Caffeine and Machine – a haven for petrolheads set in the picturesque countryside, where they oftenly organise a Nissan Yard Meet. This unique venue hosts regular meets where the hum of conversations about mods, the latest tech and road trip tales blend with the aroma of coffee and pub food. It's the perfect spot to while away a day, surrounded by an eclectic mix of cars and like-minded souls.

Within this spirited tapestry of the UK car scene, the annual meets organised by TORQEN at their headquarters stand out as a highlight for Nissan Zs enthusiasts. These gatherings bring together hundreds of Datsun 240Z, 260Z and 280Z along with Nissan 300ZX, 350Z and 370Z each year, creating a spectacle that's a feast for the senses. It's a day where the air vibrates with the collective rumble of engines and the ground seems to pulse with excitement. TORQEN's event is more than just a meet; it's a celebration of the Z lineage, showcasing a stunning array of models from the classic to the contemporary. Attending TORQEN's annual meet is akin to entering a living museum of the Z's evolution, where each car tells its own tale of adventure, customisation and pure driving pleasure. It's an opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts, exchange tips and stories and even pick up new ideas for your next project. The atmosphere is electric, fuelled by a shared passion for the iconic Z series and a sense of belonging to a community that appreciates the beauty and engineering of these exceptional vehicles.

Beyond these, the UK's car scene is dotted with club meets, track days and informal gatherings that welcome the 370Z community with open arms. Whether it's a local meet-up or a national event, these gatherings are an opportunity to connect, learn and draw inspiration. They're a reminder that owning a Z isn't just about the drive – it's about becoming part of a community that celebrates the joy of motoring in all its forms. From the pristine to the heavily modified, every Z has a story and there's no better place to share it than amongst friends at a car meet.

So, there you have it – your insider guide to buying a Nissan 370Z in the UK. Remember, it's not just about the car; it's about the experiences you'll have, the people you'll meet and the memories you'll create. Whether you're cruising through the countryside in England or the hills in Wales, the mountains in Scotland or tackling the twists and turns of your favourite back road, the 370Z is your companion on a journey that promises to be anything but ordinary.

Ready to start your search? Keep these tips in mind and you'll not only find a car, but you'll also discover a passion. Happy hunting, and here's to the drive ahead!

Adrian @ TORQEN