My 370 is Starting to Falter
 

My Z just ran out of its warranty and of course it's now starting to have issues. For one, the car is starting to not recognize the key fob. I'll literally be sitting in the driver's seat with the fob in my hand and the car will say that the key is not present. It's also started to not recognize using the key fob to lock the doors. The buttons on the doors to lock the car are getting finicky as well. Any ideas what this might be? I live in Los Angeles so it's not weather-related.

I live a mile from work, so despite the fact that my car is over three years old it only has 13K miles on it. The driver's side floor mat has started to unravel and get holes in it. Also, the leather on the driver's side seat on the side with my clutch leg is starting to crack. The leather is shiny and no matter what leather cleaner I use (I use Meguiars) it sticks out like a sore thumb compared to the rest of the interior. Any ideas there?

I guess, in sumnation, I'm starting to realize that you get what you pay for. My Z seemed like a steal for the price when I bought it, but now it's becoming obvious that it wasn't built using the best materials in some cases.

For the key fob, it sounds like you need a new battery.

The leatherette needs conditioning every so often, especially in sunny climates. You should start using a rub-in conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking.

:iagree:

all tint including your front windshield will help too :tup:

X1

Plus, you live in LA. You have strong rays.

I almost bought a Challenger SRT8 but I'm sure it would be even worse after three years than our Z's are.....I would almost put money on it.

I wouldn't say tinting the front but they have those front windshield reflectors. I use mine on my 03 z and it's still good leather

If your main complaints after over 3 years of ownership are dead battery in key fob, imperfections with the floor mat & leather seat then it looks like you got way more than you paid for (try owning a mercedes and have to spend $500 for oil changes and $1500 for broken sensors.)

Wear & tear are expected on all cars... Ferrari/Lambo included. Tint might help slow the damage with the leather as a result of UV effects. I've seen damage to the leather from keys in the pocket and what not.

if my floor mats wear out at 3yrs, I'm going to raise hell...:mad:

I used these two products on my 350's leather plus a few other cars and the stuff is awesome. It cleans and amazingly reconditions the leather.

You'll need the Pristine Clean and the Rejuvenator Oil. If you buy it, make sure you look up the "how-to" so that you get the most benefit.

Leatherique Products - Detailed Image

I clicked on this thread expecting/dreading mechanical problems. These are all minor, especially the key fob.

:iagree:

What, after three years your Z isn't factory fresh anymore! Say it ain't so! :rolleyes:

:shakes head:

:iagree: That's like returning a quartz watch as defective because the battery finally died after three years. Just... replace it with a new one?

He scared the crap out of me too!

The key is an easy fix and the leather problem could have been avoided with a little preventative maintenance.