By Finn Hart The 2009 Nissan Cube is known for its distinctive design and spacious interior but faces several key issues. Common problems include electrical system failures, transmission slipping, and early suspension wear, with owner satisfaction as low as 55% in some cases. The Cube's 1.8-liter engine delivers 122 horsepower, combined with fuel efficiency of about 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Several recalls—covering airbags and fuel leaks—indicate safety concerns. Maintaining the Cube costs approximately $400 annually, which is lower than many competitors. Understanding these factors is crucial for prospective buyers and owners alike, especially concerning long-term performance and reliability.
Overview of the 2009 Cube
The 2009 Nissan Cube is a small car with a unique look. Its boxy shape and unusual rear window make it different from other cars. This design is great for people who want something that doesn't look like the usual cars.
Inside, there's a lot of space, which means it's comfy for passengers and has room for stuff. It's a good choice for people living in the city or families.
The Cube has a 1.8-liter engine with four cylinders. This engine gives 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. It's good for driving in the city and on highways. It gets about 24 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway.
You can choose between a manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for different driving preferences.
Safety features in the 2009 Cube include anti-lock brakes, front airbags, and electronic stability control. You can also get side curtain airbags and a rear-view camera for extra safety.
For technology, the Cube has an easy-to-use audio system. Depending on the model, you can also get Bluetooth and navigation.
Other cars like the Honda Element and Scion xB also have roomy interiors but might not have the same fun design as the Cube.
Common problems reported for the 2009 Cube
Issues with the 2009 Nissan Cube
The 2009 Nissan Cube has several common problems. Here's a simple breakdown of the issues:
Electrical System
- Problem: Battery drains.
- How Often: Happens moderately.
- What Happens: Car is hard to start, especially after being parked a long time.
- Consumer Feedback: 65% satisfaction rate.
Transmission
- Problem: Issues with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
- How Often: Happens a lot and is increasing.
- What Happens: Car slips or jerks when speeding up.
- Consumer Feedback: Low satisfaction, only 55%.
Suspension
- Problem: Struts wear out early.
- How Often: Moderately reported and increasing.
- What Happens: Noisy rides and tires wear unevenly.
- Consumer Feedback: Satisfaction at 60%.
Engine
- Problem: Rough idling.
- How Often: Moderate occurrence.
- What Happens: Engine vibrates or stalls.
- Consumer Feedback: 70% satisfaction.
Brakes
- Problem: Brake pads wear down.
- How Often: Happens a lot but stable.
- What Happens: Squeaking noises and less braking power.
- Consumer Feedback: Higher satisfaction at 75%.
Interior Features
- Problem: Dashboard cracks.
- How Often: Rare but increasing.
- What Happens: Visible cracks in the dashboard.
- Consumer Feedback: 80% satisfaction.
HVAC System
- Problem: Air conditioning problems.
- How Often: Moderate frequency.
- What Happens: Poor cooling or heating.
- Consumer Feedback: 65% satisfaction.
Recall information specific to the 2009 Cube
The 2009 Nissan Cube has had several recalls.
These recalls are to fix safety and performance problems:
- Airbag Problem: Some models might have airbags that don't work right in a crash.
- Fuel Leak Risk: There's a flaw in the fuel system that could cause leaks and increase fire risk.
- Transmission Trouble: Some cars had issues with the transmission changing gears on its own, which could affect control.
- Brake Issues: There were also problems with the brake system that could make it harder to stop the car.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) manages these recalls.
You can check if a 2009 Cube is affected by looking up the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the NHTSA website or asking a local dealership.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2009 model
Owner reviews for the 2009 Nissan Cube are a mix of good and not-so-good experiences. Many people like the Cube's unique look and roomy inside, which has plenty of headroom and space for things. Its fun design often gets noticed, making it different from other cars. Comfortable seats and easy-to-use technology are big pluses. The dashboard and controls are simple and user-friendly.
But some owners aren't happy with how the Cube drives. The 1.8-liter engine is okay for city streets but has trouble on highways. This makes merging and passing other cars a concern. The fuel economy, around 27 miles per gallon, is decent but not the best compared to similar small cars.
Reliability is hit or miss. Some people have few problems, but others deal with repeated issues, especially with the electrical parts and transmission. This mix of experiences affects how satisfied people are with their Cube.
Surveys show about 70% of owners are happy, though some are disappointed by the car's performance and reliability. The 2009 Nissan Cube is for those who like its style and space more than how it drives.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Cube model years
The 2009 Nissan Cube stands out for its unique and rounded design, different from earlier models which had a more boxy look. This new style was a mix of retro and modern touches, appealing to a wider group of people.
The 2009 version came with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that gave 122 horsepower. This was enough for city driving, but it didn't match the nimbleness of some other cars. Before 2009, like the 2008 Cube, the cars had similar engines but didn't handle as well or offer as smooth a ride as the 2009 model.
Following models, like the 2010 Cube, kept the same performance but tweaked the suspension for better driving feel.
Owners found the 2009 Cube more satisfying than older models, thanks to its comfier interior and new features like Bluetooth and a navigation system.
However, later models kept the Cube's unique charm but saw some complaints about lower build quality and less cargo space due to design changes.
Tips for buying a used 2009 Cube
When buying a used 2009 Nissan Cube, it's good to do some checks to make sure you're making a smart choice. The Cube is known for its cool design and usefulness, but it might have some issues to watch out for. Here's what to do:
- Service History: Look at the car's maintenance records. Check if it had regular services and any big repairs. A car that's been well taken care of usually runs better.
- Rust Check: Look under the car and around the wheels for rust. Older cars, especially those in harsh weather or salty roads, might have rust problems.
- Test Drive: Drive the Cube to see how it feels. Notice if the transmission shifts smoothly, if the brakes work well, and if there are any strange noises.
- Market Value: Compare prices from different places to know the right price. This will help you negotiate and not pay too much.
Be aware that the 2009 model might have issues with its electrical system or suspension. Have a trusted mechanic check the car before buying.
Following these steps will help you decide if the 2009 Nissan Cube is the right car for you.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2009 Cube
To keep your 2009 Nissan Cube running well, regular maintenance is needed. Following a schedule can help avoid problems and keep everything working smoothly. The Cube is practical and uniquely styled, and it benefits from these care tips.
- Oil Changes: Change the engine oil every 5,000 miles or every six months. Using synthetic oil can help protect the engine better.
- Tire Care: Check tire pressure and tread depth often. Rotate the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles so they wear evenly and last longer.
- Brake Check: Look at the brakes every 10,000 miles. Check the pads and rotors to make sure the car can stop safely.
- Fluid Levels: Keep an eye on important fluids like coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Replace them as needed to prevent overheating and keep the car running smoothly.
- Battery Check: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and secure connections. Change the battery every 4-5 years to prevent it from failing unexpectedly.
Here's a quick look at the maintenance tasks:
| Maintenance Task | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 miles |
| Tire Rotation | Every 6,000-8,000 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
| Fluid Checks | As needed, check regularly |
These guidelines help keep your 2009 Nissan Cube in good shape, ensuring a reliable and smooth drive.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Taking care of the 2009 Nissan Cube keeps it running well and helps with its resale value and costs over time. Cars tend to lose value, but the Cube's unique look and special market can help reduce this drop. Right now, a 2009 Cube holds about 30-35% of its original price after ten years, compared to just 25% for regular cars.
Owning a car long-term involves costs like insurance, fuel, and maintenance. The Cube is cheaper to maintain, costing about $400 each year, which is good for those watching their budget. It also uses fuel efficiently, getting 27 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway, which helps keep costs down.
Here's a quick look at the 2009 Nissan Cube's resale value and ownership costs:
| Factor | 2009 Nissan Cube | Average Compact Car |
|---|---|---|
| Average Resale Value | 30-35% | 25% |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $400 | $500 |
| Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | 27 city / 31 hwy | 25 city / 30 hwy |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Economy of the 2009 Nissan Cube?
The 2009 Nissan Cube gets about 27 miles per gallon when driving in the city and around 31 miles per gallon on the highway. This makes it a good choice for saving on gas while driving, especially for a small car.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the Cube?
You can make your Nissan Cube better with a few changes. Try adding a new air intake or exhaust system for more power. You can also change the wheels or lights to make it look cooler. These upgrades can improve how your car looks and drives.
How Does the Cube Perform in Snowy Conditions?
The Nissan Cube doesn't do very well in snow because it's light and might slip. But if you put on special winter tires, it can handle snow better. It's also important for the driver to be careful and drive safely in snowy weather.
What Is the Warranty Coverage for a Used 2009 Cube?
A used 2009 Nissan Cube might have a warranty, but it could be expired by now. It's best to check the owner's manual or ask a car dealer to find out if any warranty is left. They can give you the exact details.
Can the Cube Accommodate Child Safety Seats Easily?
Yes, the Nissan Cube has plenty of space in the back seat, making it easier to put in child safety seats. But it's important to check if your specific seat model fits well and is safe to use. Always follow the seat instructions.