Credov's researched list of the 5 faults the Nissan GT-R is known for, 5 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: With a torch, look closely around each drilled hole in the brake discs for hairline cracks.
Why it matters: Cracked discs on a low-km car are a strong hint of track use. The discs are large (380 mm on 2008-2010 cars, 390 mm front from the 2011 facelift) and costly; Nismo, Track Edition and T-spec cars with carbon-ceramic brakes cost far more again.
What to look for: Start the car and check the ABS and VDC warning lights go out, and feel the brake pedal for pulsing.
Why it matters: Normal braking remains. The fix is a new hydraulic unit and coding; UK specialists quote around GBP 1,200 for the part plus about two hours labour, so expect several thousand NZ dollars.
What to look for: Look closely at each damper body, starting with the rear, for a film or bead of oil.
Why it matters: Genuine replacements are expensive; specialists also sell upgraded Bilstein units. Lowering springs or aftermarket coilovers with 'cancel' modules for the electronic dampers are also common, and a missing or unplugged damper system means the Comfort/Normal/R suspension switch no longer does anything.
What to look for: At idle and moving off slowly, listen for a metallic rattle from the bellhousing between engine and gearbox.
Why it matters: It usually starts as an intermittent rattle at idle or low speed and gets worse. The fix is a revised housing: Litchfield's modified exchange housing (roller bearing in place of the ball race) is about GBP 1,400 for the part, plus fitting.
What to look for: Drive through every gear and check for a harsh engagement, a lost gear or a sudden limp-mode warning.
Why it matters: Nissan dealers historically quoted a whole new transaxle (owners report about US$18,000); specialists now rebuild them. Specialists report 2011-on boxes have fewer selection issues and 2013-on 'almost none' unless abused or heavily tuned.
Got a question about a Nissan GT-R? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.