CarComplaints.com Notes: We don't recommend the 2009 Maxima nearly as highly as the 2007-2008 Maxima, because NHTSA complaints show a pattern of the electronic steering column lock module failing.

When the module fails it prevents the car from starting, & Nissan dealers charge over $1,000 (!!) to repair it. Nissan recalled the module on some other 2009 models with the same steering lock problem, but for some reason they left out the 2009 Maxima. See this page on the Nissan Maxima Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) defect.

If you're thinking about buying a 2009 Maxima, instead you might consider a 2007-2008 Maxima, or a newer model year.

3.3

definitely annoying
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
40,506 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2009 Nissan Maxima brakes problems

brakes problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2009 Nissan Maxima:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2009 Nissan Maxima Owner Comments

problem #4

Sep 122022

Maxima 6-cyl

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

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

- Woodbridge, VA, USA

problem #3

Feb 092015

Maxima 6-cyl

  • 51,000 miles
Leaking brake master cylinder, only indication was illuminated warning lights on dashboard.

- Harrisburg, PA, USA

problem #2

Jun 112013

Maxima

  • 78,000 miles
I have a 2006 Maxima with 78,000 miles. About 2 months ago the automatic transmission started jerking when shifting from gear 1 to gear 2. also jerking from reverse into drive. After stopping, the transmission does not engage and the rpms sky rocket until the gear engages. I have had the transmission serviced but the problem still continues. This is a major problem in heavy traffic where stopping and starting is required due to stop signs and lights. It could also result in another car rear-ending me because the transmission will not engage immediately when accelerating.

- Menands, NY, USA

problem #1

Dec 202012

Maxima 6-cyl

  • 33,022 miles
Steering/brake lock failed to disengage with attempted engine start up. Key indicator light and security lights flashing on dash. Steering lock required replacement after car was towed to nearest Nissan dealership. This repair was not covered under warranty which had expired 7 month earlier. On line research would suggest this is a fairly common occurrence; a Nissan service bulletin has apparently be published for this issue as it was referenced by the service department providing the repair.

- Wichita, KS, USA

Not what you are looking for?