Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 2 complaints on file for the 1981 Nissan 280z — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
2
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System | 1 | 50% | new |
| Speed Control | 1 | 50% | new |
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
UNINTENDED ACCELERATION MAY OCCUR, FOR EXAMPLE, WHEN SHIFTING FROM THE PARK POSITION.
Consequence
THIS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy
INSTALL A SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM WHICH PREVENTS THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER FROM BEING MOVED FROM THE PARK POSITION UNLESS THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“AT ANY TIME OR ANY SPEED GAS PEDAL GETS SUCK TO THE FLOOR. THE CAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM IS UNKNOWN. *AK CONSUMER STATES THE VEHICLE WENT TO FULL THROTTLE WHILE DRIVING WITH CRUISE CONTROL OR WHEN THE VEHICLE START. *YH”
The record is thin — 2 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1981 Nissan 280z. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.