2009 Nissan GT-R

2009 Nissan GT-R

Overview

The 2009 Nissan GT-R, codenamed R35, is a high-performance sports car renowned for its advanced technology and exhilarating driving dynamics. At its heart lies a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with a sophisticated dual-clutch transmission. While generally robust, like any complex performance vehicle, certain areas have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This analysis focuses on documented reliability concerns beyond standard maintenance, highlighting potential areas for inspection and repair for owners of this iconic supercar. The focus is on specific components and their known issues, providing estimated repair costs where applicable.

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Engine

3.8L Twin-Turbo V6 (VR38DETT)

Turbocharger Failure

• Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noises, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of affected turbocharger(s).
• Cost: $2,500 - $5,000 per turbocharger

PCV System Clogging

• Symptoms: Increased oil consumption, potential for oil leaks, rough idle.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the PCV valve and associated hoses.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Coolant Leaks (Intercooler Hoses)

• Symptoms: Visible coolant leaks, engine overheating, loss of coolant.
• Solution: Replacement of cracked or degraded intercooler hoses.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Transmission

6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (GR6)

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission seals, potential for shifting issues, warning lights.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or gaskets.
• Cost: $500 - $1,200

Clutch Pack Wear

• Symptoms: Rough shifting, slipping gears, hesitation during acceleration, transmission warning lights.
• Solution: Rebuilding or replacement of clutch packs.
• Cost: $3,000 - $6,000

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, inability to select gears, ‘Transmission Malfunction’ warning.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $1,000 - $2,000

Suspension

Adaptive Dampers

Leaking Dampers

• Symptoms: Harsh ride, excessive bouncing, visible fluid leaks from shock absorbers.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking adaptive dampers.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000 per corner

Electrical

Infotainment System

Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Infotainment screen becomes unresponsive or freezes, requiring a reboot.
• Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
• Cost: $800 - $1,500

Battery Drain

Parasitic Battery Drain

• Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly, car won’t start after sitting for a short period.
• Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty modules or components causing the drain.
• Cost: $200 - $700

Exterior

Standard Chassis

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Standard Interior

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Nissan GT-R is a formidable performance machine with a generally strong reliability record for its class. The twin-turbo V6 engine and dual-clutch transmission are the most complex systems and, as such, are the most likely areas to encounter specific issues, particularly concerning turbochargers, transmission fluid leaks, and clutch wear. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and parasitic battery drain, can also occur. Suspension components, specifically adaptive dampers, may require attention over time. While not immune to problems, most issues are repairable, though costs can be significant due to the specialized nature of the vehicle. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs are crucial for maintaining the GT-R’s performance and reliability.