The Nissan 300Zx is a two-door sports coupe that was produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 1983 to 2000. The car featured a 3-liter V6 engine that was connected to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The steps needed to troubleshoot the Nissan 300zx is largely based on the problems you are experiencing with the car. Whether it is electrical or mechanical, troubleshooting is a step-by-step process eliminating potential problems until the possible cause is identified.
Look under the Nissan 300Zx on a regular basis after the car has had an opportunity to sit with the engine turned off for a period of time. Look under the front and rear of the car. You are looking signs of small leaks from the car. Often these small leaks can be the first indication of larger problem down the road. The color of the liquid can give you an indication of the source. A black liquid is most likely oil. Green liquid is engine coolant, red liquid could be brake, transmission or steering fluids.
Insert the key into the Nissan 300Zx's ignition and turn the key to start the car. Listen for sounds as you do this. If the car does not start, check to see if the radio and other electrical items are functioning. If they are, this tells you the battery is likely not the cause of the starting problem. If you heard a clicking noise when you were starting the car, this is an indication the starter motor needs to be serviced or replaced. Remove the key from the ignition and pull the lever to open the engine hood.
Lift the engine hood and disconnect the spark plug wires, lifting them off the top of the spark plugs. Use a spark plug wrench and remove the spark plugs from the engine. Inspect each spark plug and use a wire brush to clean off any carbon buildup that is on the bottom of the plug. If the old spark plug has considerable carbon buildup, replace it with a new one. Insert and tighten the spark plug and reconnect the spark plug wire.
Drive the Nissan 300Zx, apply the brakes and observe if the steering wheel shakes or if there is a pulsing feeling through the steering wheel or brake pedal. This can be an indication that the brake rotors are not wearing evenly. The brakes should be inspected as soon as possible. If the brakes make a squeaking or grinding noise, this is an indication that the brake pads have worn to their "wear bars" and should be replaced.
