Rear differential bushings crack and leak
Added · Updated
What causes "Rear differential bushings crack and leak" on the Nissan 350Z (Z33, 2003-2009), and how is it fixed?
Per one repair shop (no measurements given), the three oil-filled factory bushings dry out and crack with age or hard launches. Fix: Replace the bushings, often with polyurethane; the diff has to come out.
Symptoms
Oil residue under the rear diff mount, a visible crack, wheel hop, or a knock when engaging the clutch.
Cause
Per one repair shop (no measurements given), the three oil-filled factory bushings dry out and crack with age or hard launches.
Fix (summary)
Replace the bushings, often with polyurethane; the diff has to come out.
Related parts
Related build entries
Other Z33 problems
- Recall: crank and cam position sensors can cause stalling or a no-start (2003)
- Recall: fuel filler hose can crack and leak (2003-2004)
- Recall: passenger airbag occupant sensor can lose its signal (2007-2008)
- Rev-up engine oil consumption (2005-2006 manual cars)
- VQ35HR oil gallery gaskets leak and drop oil pressure (2007-2008)
- Community-reported: windows lose auto-up or bounce back down after motor or glass work
More for this car
- All Nissan 350Z (Z33, 2003-2009) fitment answers · Z33 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- Recurring problems (350Z / G35 / 370Z / G37) — GZ Motorsports (repair shop and parts store, Quebec) (vendor article; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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