2009 Nissan Platina
The 2009 Nissan Platina, primarily sold in Mexico and South America, is a rebadged Renault Symbol/Thalia. It was offered with a 1.6L K4M gasoline engine, producing around 110 horsepower and 109 lb-ft of torque. It’s known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, it often faces criticism for its basic features, relatively unrefined interior, and handling characteristics. The 2009 Nissan Platina was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Engine
1.6L K4M Gasoline Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes.
- Solution: In some cases, using a higher viscosity oil or performing an engine flush can help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing the IAC valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delays when shifting between gears, or harsh “clunking” shifts.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush may alleviate the problem initially. If the issue persists, valve body repairs or replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual Transmission
No Issues Found
Suspension
- Worn Shock Absorbers and Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, and longer stopping distances.
- Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers and struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Sway Bar Link Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, intermittent operation, or slow movement.
- Solution: Replacing the window motor, regulator, or switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Locking System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Central locking system failing to lock or unlock all doors, or intermittent operation.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the door lock actuators or the central locking module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $250+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Outer door handles breaking or becoming loose, making it difficult to open the doors.
- Solution: Replacing the door handles.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per handle
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the dashboard. (Repair is often cosmetic.)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cosmetic repair) - $500+ (replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The heating and air conditioning blower motor failing to operate, or operating only on certain settings.
- Solution: Replacing the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 Nissan Platina generally exhibits issues common to budget vehicles of its era. Engine problems like oil consumption and idle air control issues, coupled with potential transmission problems and suspension wear, represent the more significant concerns. Electrical and interior faults are also noted, but typically less severe. The cost to address these issues can range from relatively inexpensive repairs to more substantial investments, depending on the specific problem and required solution.