2009 Nissan Maxima Owner Complaints

The contact called on behalf of the owner of a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that after the windshield was replaced by Safelite Auto Glass, the employee at Safelite attempted to start the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start, and the steering wheel had seized. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the electronic steering column lock had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. Upon further investigation, the contact found Manufacturer Recall Number: PC516, which involved the electronic steering column lock (ESCL). However, the VIN was not included. The contact stated that Safelite did not remove the rearview mirror. However, the rearview mirror was left hanging while the windshield was replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the Service Campaign under PC516 for the same issue, and the Service Campaign had since expired. The failure persisted, and the vehicle remained at the residence unrepaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11709781

Incident

Oct 17, 2025

The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the front end of the vehicle started shuddering uncontrollably. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact was able to continue driving to the residence at 20 MPH. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

NHTSA ID

11639588

Incident

Jan 29, 2025

Mileage

200,000 mi

The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact received notification of an undisclosed recall. The contact stated that while the vehicle was off, the push-to-start button was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to start. The immobilizer warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the key fob and the steering lock needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

NHTSA ID

11639330

Incident

Jan 19, 2025

Mileage

170,000 mi

The steering wheel lock malfunctioned. The part is available for inspection. The car was parked on the street. It endangered others because it would not start and had to be towed. This issue was confirmed and reproduced by the dealer with diagnostics. There were no symptoms prior to this issue and the warning light only came on after the part malfunctioned.

NHTSA ID

11580982

Incident

Mar 26, 2024

The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, he heard an abnormal knocking sound emanating from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the front-end mounting strut insulator. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V358000 (Suspension) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11580536

Incident

Apr 1, 2024

In 2016 we had to replace the steering lock mechanism. Went to start the car and a security light came on and car would not start , and had to get the car towed from work. We paid to have the part replaced on 12/23/2016. Now, 11/27/2023 we had the same issue with the steering lock mechanism where we tried to start the vehicle and it won’t due to this same issue. Now having to get the car towed again to have the part replaced. I saw there was a voluntary safety recall on this issue in 2017. We did not receive any letter stating our car was affected, yet we replaced the part in 2016 with no reimbursement and now again in 2023 with the part doubling in cost.

NHTSA ID

11557187

Incident

Nov 27, 2023

The airbag light is on and blinking. I did call the local Nissan dealer and they told me there was not a recall for this problem on the 2009 Nissan maxima. This seems very unfair because several recalls have been made on the airbags. Also I was told over 5 years ago that the struts on my car were defective when I had my brakes repaired. I did call the Nissan company and they told me my year was not included in the recall. My car was driving so badly I was having problems controlling it and I had to go ahead and get the front struts replaced and shocks replaced on the back and they had to put a stabilizer bar (sway Bar Link) on it also. I recently had this done. This airbag light had come on 4 years ago but I was thinking it was my seat belt light. When I would remove my purse to the floor it would go off. My brother took my manual out and told me it was the airbag and not the seat belt light. It blinks all the time now. I firmly believe the Nissan company know this 2009 Maxima has defects but they refuse to acknowledge it. Appears they could care less about our safety.

NHTSA ID

11527809

Incident

Jun 17, 2023

UNKNOWN

NHTSA ID

11527551

Incident

Jun 17, 2023

I recently had my father pass away and my mom gave me his car , the air conditioning stopped working then the serpentine belt broke so I had a mobile mechanic come out and replace serpentine belt and tensioner. Then the power steering wheel fell off on freeway luckily no one was hurt I had to have the power steering pump replaced and another new serpentine belt installed. Then I went to get tires and an alignment done on the vehicle because it was driving kinda weird to be informed that the struts need replaced when I know my father had the struts replaced less then a year ago . Now today I was driving came to a red light and lost all power i could not even use hazard lights because I had no power. I was stuck there.I had to get towed home and purchased a new battery then called a mobile mechanic and was informed I have an ecm failure.with that being said car is unsafe to drive oh and serpentine belt broke again.

NHTSA ID

11522966

Incident

May 19, 2023

I just purchased this vehicle. The dashboard gives a reflection on the windshield. It is a visibility hazard. The dashboard is very sticky, like it's melting in the sun.

NHTSA ID

11514933

Incident

Mar 14, 2023

The contact owned 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated while at a complete stop, another vehicle driving approximately 70 MPH, crashed into the rear of the vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained hips and back pain. The contact was seen by emergency services and sought medical assistance later that day. The contact underwent physical therapy and hip replacement surgery. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot, where it was totaled. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 257,000.

NHTSA ID

11506422

Incident

Mar 27, 2022

Mileage

257,000 mi

On 9/12/22, my son purchased a 2009 Nissan Maxima from Street Cars. My son was told that the car did not pass the state inspection, but all items on the list were taken care of. The salesman noted the Air Intake Tube would be ordered for the car and installed once received. My son paid $5299 in cash. My son wanted to pay with a cashier's check, but the salesperson requested cash. On the way home to Woodbridge from Fredericksburg, the vehicle began to slow down as if it were going to cut off. My son slowed down and proceeded home. On 9/13/22, my son went to Minnieville Exxon to have the vehicle emissions test completed, and the car was listed as "Not Ready." In addition, seven (7) additional issues must be addressed before the vehicle can pass. We began calling the salesman at 11:45 am, sent a text message at 12:17 pm, and called until 1:30 pm. Due to what we felt were deceptive practices, we traveled to Street Cars in Fredericksburg to speak with the salesman about returning the vehicle for a refund. The salesman stated the vehicle was sold "As Is” and is on the Bill of Sales. We asked about the sign on the front of his business which states "3-Day Return Policy". The salesman said it does not apply to cash cars or discounted cars. When asked about the items on the failed inspection report being taken care of, the salesperson refused to discuss it further. The salesperson stated my son should use the warranty, where he will be responsible for half the cost of all repairs. When the salesperson was asked about the Air Intake Tube order, he refused to provide a confirmation number for the order, a telephone number, or a location for the company. My son did not receive any title paperwork and was told to sign the vehicle delivery form when items had not been received. We contacted ASC Warranty company which was provided with the vehicle, and they told us to take the car to any automotive repair shop for an estimate. We took the vehicle to Sheehy Nissan in Manas

NHTSA ID

11495700

Incident

Sep 12, 2022

The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the suspension. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V358000 (Suspension) and he needed to pay out of pocket for the repairs. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and they stated that the vehicle warranty had expired and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 120,000.

NHTSA ID

11478586

Incident

Aug 10, 2021

Mileage

120,000 mi

Passenger front air bag defect. Since reading many post in this forum in relation to the same issue, manufacture should be held responsible to replace sensor. Vehicle have not been in a wreck as far as I know. The sensor light came on around June this year and haven’t went off. I received a quote for approximately $2500 depending on available parts. If this issue is not rectified by the dealer, will make sure not to purchase another Nissan Maxima again. Just imagine if I have a family member in the front seat and a accident occur! Cannot even imagine the outcome.

NHTSA ID

11476710

Incident

Jun 15, 2022

CVT transmission whinnying with loss of power when accelerating

NHTSA ID

11456420

Incident

Mar 9, 2022

Not sure what is goiNg I have spent so Much money replaciNg parts on this car. And it is still not fixed. It’s one thing after Another . I cannot fight out why the engine light is on its like the whole care is malfunctioning. And no one knows what it is. And heavy smoke From tail pipe. While driving it feels Like It Wants to StAll like the gas gets stuck . I was told To buy a control module but it didn’t need that . And I can’t Afford To Keep trying to Fix it. It’s my only Car and I’m A non working single Mom trying my Best to fix it. But this car is Causing So Much depression I don’t know what else to do. Because it’s costing too much and times is already hard.

NHTSA ID

11451074

Incident

Jan 25, 2022

The airbag warning light on the dash started blinking. The local dealer investigated and advised that the front passenger airbag occupancy sensor was defective. Repair would require complete replacement of the front passenger seat cushion at an estimated cost of about $2,000. The mechanic told me he has seen the exact same issue numerous times for the Maxima of multiple model years. This appears to be a persistent problem with these sensors as reflected in multiple Nissan user forum entries. This is a safety issue that has been detected on multiple Maxima model years over the past several years. It needs to be fully investigated and a safety recall needs issued to hold the manufacturer accountable. The customers should not have to bear the expensive repair.

NHTSA ID

11446224

Incident

Dec 7, 2021

The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Maxima. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the engine was running hot and there was thick white smoke coming from the exhaust tips. In addition, the vehicle stalled and was restarted however the vehicle shut off. The contact mentioned that the check engine warning light illuminated intermittently. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 178,000.

NHTSA ID

11441250

Incident

Nov 18, 2021

Mileage

178,000 mi

I own a 2009 Maxima. I took the vehicle into a repair shop to diagnose a problem that i was experiencing with the suspension. The vehicle made a thumping noise on rough or bumpy road surfaces and felt as though the front end was going to break apart whenever I hit even a small pot-hole. I was told that the complete strut assembly as well as the lower control arms had to be replaced. I was also advised that my vehicle was unsafe to drive. The cost and labor to replace these parts is approx. $1,400. I can't afford to repair the vehicle at this time as I am unemployed due to Covid-19. I'm no mechanic but I will have to attempt to repair the vehicle myself.

NHTSA ID

11428771

Incident

Jan 30, 2021

ELECTRICAL AND AC FAILURE, SPENT A LOT OF MONEY AND COULDN'T REALLY AFFORD TO SPEND BC I WAS TRYING TO GET MY AC REPAIRED AND NO INE CAN FIGURE OUT WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. THE WARM WEATHER IS APPROACHING AND I CANNOT HAVE MY SELF AND MY CHILD SWEATING BULLETS AGAIN THIS YEAR. PURCHASED A NEW AC COMPRESSOR, NEW AC CONDENSER AND HAD THE AC CHARGED STILL NOT FIX TO IT. HAVE SEVERAL PEOPLE CHECK FOR LEAKS ECT AND AC COMPRESSOR DOESN'T EVEN KICK IN AT ALL AND NO ONE KNOWS WHY.

NHTSA ID

11398002

Incident

Jun 19, 2019

Mileage

190,000 mi

I HAVE PARKED MY VECHICKLE AND AFTER 10 MIN. I COULDN'T START ENGINE. IN NISSAN SERVICE THEY TOLD ME THAT I NEED REPLACE ELECTRIC STEERING COLUMN LOCK ($830.00). THEY TOLD ME TOO, THAT WAS RECALL ON THAT PART BUT UNFORTUNATELY HAS EXPIRED.

NHTSA ID

11351716

Incident

Aug 25, 2020

Mileage

170,000 mi

MY HUSBAND BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM CROWN MASON IN TAMPA ANDBTHE CAR STARTED SMOKING IN ONE DAY, WE FOUND OUT THE ENGINE WAS NO GOOD. THE OWNER CLAIMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS IN GOOD SHAPE. SINCE THE DAY WE BOUGHT IT WE HAD TO PUT A NEW ENGINE IN ALONG WITH A TUNE UP AND A WHEEL ALIGNMENT

NHTSA ID

11350803

Incident

Jul 25, 2020

Mileage

125,876 mi

THE PAINT ON THE HOOD AND ROOF OF MY 2009 NISSAN MAXIMA IS FADING.

NHTSA ID

11349799

Incident

Aug 17, 2020

Mileage

69,000 mi

TWO DAYS AFTER I BOUGHT MY CAR FROM THE DEALERSHIP I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED FROM MY HOUSE BECAUSE IT WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE, FIELD STEERING WAS SO OUT OF CONTROL I HAD A HARD TIME KEEPING IN MY LANE THE BRAKES WERE IF YOU WERE TO JUST TOUCH THE BRAKES THE SLIGHTEST YOU WOULD GO OUT THE WINDSHIELD PRACTICALLY. AFTER THEY CLAIMED TO HAVE FIXED THE STEERING ISSUES, I PICKED MY CAR UP FROM THE SHOP AND I WAS GOING DOWN THE CITY STREET AND IT JERKED SO HARD TO THE RIGHT THAT I JUMPED THE CURB ALMOST HIT A BUSH AND THREE PEOPLE WALKING IN THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME IT WAS MY PROBLEM NOT THEIRS.*DT*JB

NHTSA ID

11341451

Incident

May 4, 2020

Mileage

99,500 mi

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND I LOST POWER AND THE CAR SLOWED DOWN WHILE I WAS STILL PRESSING ON THE GAS, THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT, ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT, CAR WAS TOWED TO MY HOUSE AND IT'S BEEN SITTING EVER SINCE. *TR

NHTSA ID

11326988

Incident

Apr 29, 2019