Dealer installed "Value Advantage" spark plugs!

stratburst

I just got my 370 back from the dealer with Nissan "Value Advantage" plugs. I had assumed they would have installed OEM Denso plugs but when I took a close look at the bill i was pissed to discover they weren't. Is there any performance difference between the Denso's and the Cheapo's? Trying to decide if it's worth giving up my car for another day for them to swap them out with correct plugs.

SouthArk370Z

I think you would be much better off to replace them yourself instead of taking them to a dealer who obviously doesn't care.

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stratburst

I agree. I would have done it myself if I had the time. I've already paid for the service so it wouldn't make sense to buy and install Denso's myself at this point.

My argument is I own a Z and paid a premium for the sport package because of the performance capabilities of the car and expect the car to be maintained to this standard by the dealer.

I'm confident I can raise the issue with the dealer and have them swap them out but that means another day in the shop.

stratburst

I dug in and did a little research and discovered the dealer not only installed non-OEM plugs but they arn't even listed as an OEM replacement for the Z! Dealer installed 2401-JA01JNW, the correct OEM replacement should have been 2401-JA01KNW. I also had them replace the rear sport pads and discovered they installed Power Stop pads, not OEM Akebono pads. Why the hell would someone invest in performance brakes and install cheap pads? F*nk'n idiots!

Yep, I could have done all this myself correctly and saved money if I had the time. I'm pissed now.

SouthArk370Z

This is why they are often referred to as "stealerships."

Edit: I still think you would be better off eating what you've spent and do it right yourself. What else will those bozos screw up?

Edit #2: Or find a good, independent mechanic. Changing spark plugs and brake pads can be done without any fancy electronic gizmos or other tools that only a dealer might have.

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nis350

those pads from pepboys???

kromberg

The technician that installed them is also the assistant manager of Pepboy's on the Weekend.

CRiZO

I'd absolutely have them redo everything with the proper parts, and inform Nissan Group of North America. If you installed the same parts they did and something went wrong, they'd blame the parts and reject any warranty claims.

CRiZO

Now that I think about it, it wouldn't be unreasonable to suspect that someone internal is personally profiting from installing cheaper parts and selling the OEM parts. Contractors do it all the time.

OldFart

Pep Boys brand is Pro Stop not Power Stops although they can those pads as well. In regards to the Akebonos I bought into the hype and bought them (Pep Boys sell them also). Never again... Brake dust from them is horrible..

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cv129

NVA = Nissan Value Advantage

https://partsadvantage.nissanusa.com/value-advantage/

And our OEM pads aren’t “performance” pads honestly.

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jchammond

Nissan dealerships in Columbia SC will do the same thing,,,they don’t even sell oem wiper blades; I had to order them...
As far as spark plugs-they should have at least used the Denso’s or put the NGK Lazer iridium plugs in...they cost a bit more

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Quicksilvers

If your Z is in N/A form I would recommend installing the Denso replacement spark plugs in your VQ37HR engine because I have seen them last the longest. Your best bet would be to purchase the replacement spark plugs of your choose online or at your favorite auto parts store and install them yourself if you can or have a reputable shop you trust install them for you. To bring your Z to the Nissan dealership service department should be your last resort. If you bring your Z to a shop to have your replacement spark plugs installed always ask for your old spark plugs back so you can check the condition of them and so you know they actually changed them. I dread ever bringing my Z to the Nissan dealership service department.

stratburst

Interesting, my experience has been completely the opposite. I've never had a problem with the dust generated by the Akebono pads although I do wax the wheels yearly and clean them at least every two weeks so it never really gets a chance to build up.

stratburst

You're right they are street pads, not racing pads which I would never want on a daily driver.