2017 Nissan 370Z Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Nissan 370Z: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Nissan 370Z has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Nissan 370Z has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 Nissan 370Z?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Nissan 370Z, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's diagnostic port; this tool will help you retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the issue more accurately. Additionally, check the levels of essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the light to illuminate. Don’t forget to inspect the battery for any signs of corrosion or loose connections, as these can affect the vehicle's electrical system. Pay attention to any other warning lights on the dashboard, as their presence alongside the check engine light may indicate a more serious problem. If these initial steps do not reveal the cause, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential issues and take the necessary steps to resolve the check engine light concern.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Nissan 370Z?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Nissan 370Z, it is essential for drivers to understand the potential issues that may be at play. A loose gas cap is often the simplest explanation, as it can lead to fuel vapor leaks, prompting the warning light. More complex problems may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Additionally, the catalytic converter plays a vital role in the exhaust system, and any inefficiencies or failures here can trigger the check engine light. The mass airflow sensor is another critical component; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Misfires caused by faulty spark plugs or ignition coils are also common culprits, indicating a need for immediate attention. Engine misfires, whether due to fuel delivery problems or other factors, can further complicate matters. Lastly, issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, such as a clogged valve, can also activate the check engine light. By recognizing these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve issues, ensuring their 370Z operates smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Nissan 370Z?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Nissan 370Z, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates that there may be underlying issues with your engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this signal can lead to more severe problems, including engine damage, decreased fuel efficiency, and compromised vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to understand that while some issues may seem minor, they can escalate quickly, resulting in costly repairs and potential safety hazards on the road. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct a thorough diagnostic check as soon as the light appears, either through an OBD-II scanner or by consulting a qualified mechanic. Taking prompt action not only helps maintain the health of your vehicle but also ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.

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