2009 Nissan Maxima

The 2009 Nissan Maxima is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate the Maxima’s comfortable ride, responsive engine, and stylish design. Common complaints include CVT reliability concerns and some electronic issues.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Some owners have reported using more than 1 quart of oil per 1,000 miles. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals may help reduce oil consumption. In severe cases, engine replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. This is due to a worn or failed timing chain tensioner, which can cause the timing chain to slack and potentially jump teeth, leading to serious engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky acceleration, slipping, hesitation, whining noises, or complete transmission failure. The CVT is known to be a weak point in this generation Maxima.
  • Solution: Replacing the CVT or attempting a rebuild. Rebuilding can be risky and sometimes not as reliable as a new unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Premature wear and tear of strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failed Window Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Window no longer goes up or down, or moves erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• BCM (Body Control Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as lights not working, power windows malfunctioning, or issues with the security system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the BCM, and reprogram the new BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, or gets stuck. Can be due to motor failure or issues with the tracks/guides.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen goes blank, flickers, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Replacing the navigation screen or the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Nissan Maxima, while offering a sporty driving experience, suffers from a few notable issues. The most significant concern is the reliability of the CVT, which can lead to costly repairs. Engine oil consumption and timing chain issues are also potential problems with the VQ35DE engine. Electrical issues like window motor failure, navigation screen failure, and BCM problems also affect this model. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential repairs.