2007 NISSAN FAIRLADY Z

Typical onset: 80,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Cold-start rattle lasting 3-5 seconds, Metallic rattling from front of engine under acceleration, Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes, Complete loss of power if chain jumps timing

Fix: Requires front engine teardown to replace timing chain, guides, tensioners, and usually all three chains (both secondary and primary). Book time is 12-16 hours depending on whether heads come off. Many techs recommend doing head gaskets and valve cover gaskets while in there.

Estimated cost: $2,800-5,500

Typical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi

Symptoms: Grinding or crunch going into 5th or 6th gear, especially when cold, Difficulty downshifting into lower gears, Gear pop-out under deceleration

Fix: Transmission must come out for rebuild or replacement. Synchro rings and keys are the culprits. Expect 8-10 hours labor for trans removal, rebuild, and reinstall. Many owners opt for a used transmission from a low-mile car instead of rebuild.

Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800

Typical onset: 100,000-180,000 mi

Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start or hard acceleration, Burning 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles, Carbon buildup on spark plugs, Reduced power and misfires if oil level drops too low

Fix: Piston rings are the root cause, which means engine-out rebuild or replacement. Some techs will do a top-end refresh with new rings and hone, but most recommend short-block replacement or full rebuild. Book time is 20-30 hours depending on how deep you go.

Estimated cost: $4,500-8,000

Typical onset: 70,000-130,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission fluid drips under car near radiator, Low trans fluid level on dipstick, Burnt smell if fluid is low long enough

Fix: Cooler lines corrode or develop pinhole leaks at crimp points. Replace lines and top off fluid. Labor is 1-2 hours depending on line routing.

Estimated cost: $200-450

Typical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi

Symptoms: Persistent ticking from valve train, especially cylinder 5 or 6, Tick worsens with heat, Misfire codes if lifter fully collapses

Fix: Valve covers come off, camshafts out, replace failed lifters and check cam lobes for scoring. Labor is 6-9 hours. Often done alongside timing chain service if already in the front end.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,400

Typical onset: 50,000-100,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunking or banging on hard shifts or throttle lift, Excessive driveline vibration, Visible torn rubber on mount inspection

Fix: Replace transmission mount. Labor is 1-2 hours, straightforward job. Polyurethane aftermarket mounts last longer but transmit more NVH.

Estimated cost: $150-350