That is possibility that it got oil starved as even if he was on an extremely long intervals repeatedly (which 8k really isn't by today's standards) the engine still only has less than 100k. Seen plenty of others (not specifically 370z) doing extended intervals to the point of being abusive and using cheap *** conventional oils and they were not blowing bottom ends in less than 100k, most times you'll have sludge issues before you have worn bearings. So odds are more likely oil starvation and since American (most) and Japanese cars don't have oil level sensors, only a lot of German (not all) then it's really too late by the time the warning buzzer sounds.

So back to OP post. If it is just worn bearings and no cylinder wall damage you may be able to save your engine. It won't be cheap but cheaper than a new engine. Engine will have to be torn down and inspected and see if any crank journals are scored, then replace the bearings and check clearence with plasti gauge. In a perfect world you will always have the crank polished but in reality sometimes it is not done (e46 m3 conn rod bearings anyone?). At less than 100k your rings are probably still seating just fine but it would be wise to do a leak down test on all cylinder BEFORE you tear down the engine.

Don't y'all know by now talking engine specific terms to OP is like playing piano to a cow?

He just went in for a late oil change and tech said he needed a new engine. Sounds perfectly normal and surely "there is nothing more to the story"....

And he still hasn't disclosed just exactly what is broken. All he said was a keyword "bearing". He didn't say how, he didn't mention symptoms. And a $11k engine transplant and he doesn't have any written estimates on details, just words from the tech...

Lol true. I guess I should put have them do a leak down test before they tear down the engine would be a better answer. Just trying to keep it civil for the op.

:tiphat::tiphat:

Yah, I'm with you. Something smells like rotten fish here. This is the reason new, young drivers are usually given a beater to learn on. I mean come on, it's a Nissan, not a Fiat. Lots of reliability history with the Z.

Lack of understanding, embarrassment etc. Has left me wondering about this story. I for one would be hard pressed to believe that there are many forum members that could actually swap an engine in a Z judging by the horrible mechanical work I've seen over the past 45 years. I think it might be time to sell off this car as is rather than patch it up and sell it to an unsuspecting buyer. The Z can be a difficult car to drive for those without the proper experience or knowledge. Maybe work out a deal to let it go because I don't feel that your luck will get much better with this car...sorry.