2009 Nissan Sentra

Introduction

The 2009 Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan with a reputation for being reliable and fuel-efficient. It is available with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Sentra delivers 140 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. While it offers a comfortable interior, some owners have reported issues with its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical components.

Engine

2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine with 6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: Burning or leaking oil, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings or the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Stretch:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise from the timing chain area, rough idling, and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine with 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from the transmission pan gasket or seals, causing a drop in fluid levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration or low-speed driving.
  • Solution: Flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the torque converter in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise or vibration from the front of the vehicle, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Alternator:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging properly, dim headlights or flickering dashboard lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• BCM Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including power window malfunctions, door lock problems, and lighting malfunctions.
  • Solution: Reprogramming or replacing the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Exhaust System:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on the exhaust system components, causing noise and potential exhaust leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle or noise coming from the dashboard area, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Applying foam padding or rubber insulators to dampen the vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2009 Nissan Sentra is generally reliable, it has some reported issues that can be costly to fix. Engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption and timing chain stretch, can be severe and require major repairs. Transmission issues, like fluid leaks and torque converter shudder, can also be expensive to address. However, issues like suspension noise and electrical problems are typically less severe and can be fixed for a reasonable cost.