1987 Nissan 300ZX Owner's Manual

The 1987 Nissan 300ZX is a third-generation Z-car featuring a 3.0L V6 engine, rear-wheel drive, and advanced aerodynamics. Available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions, this sports coupe combines performance with luxury features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting specific to the 1987 model year.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Driving Tips 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.0L VG30 V6 engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, digital instrument cluster, T-top roof option.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.0L VG30 V6, 160 hp (NA) / 200 hp (Turbo)
Transmission	5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Brakes	Power-assisted front disc/rear drum
Suspension	Independent front and rear
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Seating	2+2 configuration (4 seats)
Instrumentation	Digital dash with tachometer and speedometer
Exterior	Aerodynamic design with pop-up headlights
Interior	Power windows, air conditioning, premium audio
Fuel Capacity	18.5 gallons

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with all controls and warning lights before driving.

Speedometer: Digital display showing vehicle speed
Tachometer: Engine RPM display
Fuel Gauge: Shows remaining fuel level
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, brake, battery, oil pressure
Odometer/Trip Meter: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Never ignore warning lights. Stop vehicle immediately if red warning lights illuminate.

Starting & Operating

Proper starting procedure ensures long engine life.

Fasten seat belts and ensure parking brake is engaged
Insert key and turn to ON position (wait for system check)
Depress clutch (manual) or brake (automatic)
Turn key to START position until engine starts
Release key immediately after engine starts
Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before driving

CAUTION! Do not crank starter for more than 15 seconds. Wait 30 seconds between attempts.

Specifications

Engine: 3.0L VG30 V6, SOHC, 12-valve
Horsepower: 160 hp @ 5200 rpm (NA), 200 hp @ 5200 rpm (Turbo)
Torque: 174 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (NA), 227 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (Turbo)
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Brakes: Ventilated front discs, rear drums
Wheels: 15-inch alloy wheels
Tires: 205/60R15
Fuel: Premium unleaded (91 octane recommended)
Curb Weight: Approximately 3,200 lbs

Controls & Features

Master vehicle controls for safe and comfortable operation.

Steering Wheel: Tilt adjustment, horn, cruise control (if equipped).

Center Console: Climate controls, audio system, power window switches, mirror controls.

Dashboard: Headlight switch, wiper controls, hazard lights, defroster.

Seating: Power adjustable seats (driver side), lumbar support, seat heaters (if equipped).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 7,500 miles: Tire rotation, fluid checks
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs, fuel filter
Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt, coolant flush
Every 2 years: Brake fluid replacement

Tip: Keep records of all maintenance for warranty and resale value.

Driving Tips

Maximize performance and fuel economy with proper driving techniques.

Allow engine to reach operating temperature before hard acceleration
Use proper shifting techniques: smooth clutch engagement
Maintain proper tire pressure (32 psi recommended)
Use cruise control on highways for better fuel economy
Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking
Regularly check fluid levels and tire condition

WARNING! The 300ZX has high performance capabilities. Drive responsibly and within legal speed limits.

Safety Systems

Your 300ZX is equipped with multiple safety features.

Seat Belts: Three-point front belts, lap belts for rear seats. Braking System: Power-assisted with dual-circuit design. Lighting: Halogen headlights with pop-up mechanism. Structural: Reinforced passenger cabin with crumple zones.

Care & Cleaning

Proper care maintains appearance and value.

Exterior: Wash with automotive soap, wax every 3 months. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use leather/vinyl cleaner. T-tops: Clean seals regularly, store properly when removed.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners on paint or glass. Avoid high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

Basic Warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain: 36 months/36,000 miles. Corrosion: 60 months/unlimited miles. For warranty service, contact authorized Nissan dealership. Keep all maintenance records for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Rough idle	Spark plugs, fuel filter	Replace spark plugs, check fuel system
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat if needed
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brakes inspected and resurfaced
Electrical issues	Fuses, alternator	Check fuse box, test alternator output

Emergency: Keep Nissan Roadside Assistance number in glove box.

Service: Contact authorized Nissan dealership for all repairs.