Have you had any expensive issues? Buying advice please!

[Anonymous]

Hello

Am looking forward to getting my first RCZ at some point over the coming months, probably a one owner Mk 1 diesel (under 70k) or a Mk 1 petrol (under 50k, 160bhp as 200bhp would be too much in fuel costs). GT much more appealing than Sport despite likely poorer ride. Love metallic red or silver, especially from the side!

Just wanted to tap into owners experiences of issues/problems experienced to try and avoid big bills! If anyone can help me with the following that would be fantastic:

1. Any issues with jacking points crumbling – seen one that mentioned it on an old MOT – but presumably had been repaired ok, as not subsequently picked up on more recent mot tests.
2. In your experience do you think there are better years to look at – eg 61 plates likely to be better than 10 plates as initial issues ironed out?
3. Any issues with clutches/dmf? If so, at what mileage?
4. Any corrosion/discoloration with the roof arches.
5. Any leather dash sagging issues (caused by sunlight), especially around air vents (although most likely sorted under warranty?)
6. Any timing issues (petrol only?)?
7. Knocking noises from engine area (engine mounts replaced?)?
8. Any other item big bills encountered (what for) during ownership….

Most grateful for the benefit of your experience/knowledge!
:greetings-wavingblue:

 

[DKZ5745]

If your wanting to ensure that you don't encounter any problems, the Mk2 has a better record of having fewer "common" issues.

1. Yes, all RCZ's have the same problems with weak jacking points. Always look at all 4 when buying a Z, even from a dealer. Trolley Jacks or 4 point lift is the way to avaoid future problems.
2. As pointed out above, 2013 was the year the Mk2 came out.
3. No known "common" issues that I have heard of.
4. The black arches are pretty much bulletproof. The Silver arches are known for water drop marks, but they can easily be cleaned, and this has been covered under a few threads on this forum.
5. You are likely to get some leather wear, mainly on drivers seat "wings". I have not heard of problems with the dash.
6. Timing issues are covered under many threads on here. The Mk1 almost without exception has had timing issues. Once they have been dealt with, it seems that the modified part doesn't fail. If you are going for a Mk1 check if the timing chain and tensioner have been replaced. If from a dealer, ask about warranty covering this. Mk2's rarely have this problem.
7. The front suspension strut top mounts have a modified part available, and most with issues have been replaced under warranty.
8. Nothing common to all RCZ's some have been unlucky, but let's face it, any car, New or used can throw up a costly issue at random.

The main thing with the RCZ is the joy of driving it, and the beauty of the car. I know people who have had terrible problems, and they can't wait to buy another Z. I know others who have had several RCZ's with few or no issues. There are even members on here that own more than one RCZ. That should tell you something :eusa-think:

 

[Cuore Sportivo]

Own 2 Z's. A 12 plate and a 13 plate.

Touch wood, aside from a replacement battery on the 12, not cost a penny.

Managed to jack up both several times myself with no problems after following the advice on here.