By Jude Knox The 2009 Nissan GT-R, known for its 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 480 horsepower, faces some notable challenges. Owners often report excessive oil consumption, hard gear changes, and clutch slipping. Suspension issues like clunking sounds and uneven tire wear are common alongside brake fade concerns. Notable recalls include fuel pump failures and airbag sensor malfunctions. Despite around 70% owner satisfaction, technical problems such as transmission roughness affect experiences. Maintenance costs can range from $2,000 to $3,000 annually, making regular checks crucial. Understanding these factors aids potential buyers in assessing the GT-R's long-term viability and ownership experience. Additional insights follow.
Overview of the 2009 GT-R
The 2009 Nissan GT-R is a well-known sports car that returned to the American market. It is famous for its mix of technology and performance. The car has a 3.8-liter V6 engine with twin turbos, giving it 480 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It uses a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, helping it reach 0 to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds. This makes it a strong competitor among sports cars.
The GT-R features an ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system that improves traction and stability. It also has Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which smartly spreads power to the wheels for better cornering.
The design of the 2009 GT-R is bold, with a low and sleek profile. Inside, the car focuses on the driver with comfortable materials and an engaging design.
It comes loaded with tech features, including a display that shows performance data in real-time. This combination of tech and performance sets the GT-R apart from cars like the Porsche 911 Turbo and Chevrolet Corvette, making it a standout in the car world.
Common problems reported for the 2009 GT-R
2009 Nissan GT-R Issues
The 2009 Nissan GT-R has several known issues across different parts. These problems can affect how the car performs and how happy owners are with it. Here's a breakdown of the main issues for each part of the car.
Engine
Many owners notice the engine uses too much oil. This happens more as the car gets older.
Signs include warning lights on the dashboard and smoke from the exhaust. This can lead to less power and possible engine trouble.
Transmission
Some drivers have trouble with the clutch. It might be hard to change gears or the gears might slip.
This can cause the car to lose speed and not drive smoothly.
Suspension
Suspension issues are common, especially as the car ages. Owners hear clunking sounds and see uneven tire wear.
This affects how well the car handles and feels on the road.
Brakes
Brake fade is less common but still happens.
It can make the car take longer to stop, which could be a safety issue.
Electronics
Problems with the infotainment system occur sometimes, especially in newer models.
The system might freeze or not work right, making it hard to use navigation and other features.
Cooling System
Overheating is rare but can happen.
Watch for rising temperature gauges and coolant leaks, as these can cause engine damage if not addressed.
Body/Interior
Paint chipping is a frequent issue and gets worse over time.
This can lead to visible damage and even rust.
Recall information specific to the 2009 GT-R
Recall details for the 2009 Nissan GT-R cover several key safety and performance issues that owners need to know.
Despite its engineering excellence, the 2009 GT-R had some recalls affecting reliability and safety. Here's what owners should be aware of:
- Fuel Pump Problem: Some cars had faulty fuel pumps, causing the engine to stall. The solution was to replace the fuel pump assembly for stable engine performance.
- Brake Light Issue: The brake light switch could malfunction, keeping the brake lights on or not turning them on at all. Fixing this was important for clear communication with other drivers.
- Transmission Update: Some 2009 GT-Rs needed a software update for the transmission control module. This update made shifting smoother and improved drivability.
- Airbag Sensor Problem: There was a risk of airbags not deploying during a crash due to sensor issues. The recall aimed to fix this to ensure airbags worked properly.
These recalls show the importance of staying updated on potential problems.
Regular maintenance and addressing recalls can improve the 2009 GT-R's performance and safety.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2009 model
The 2009 Nissan GT-R gets a mix of cheers and concerns from its owners. Many love the car's power. It has a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, giving 480 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This power helps the GT-R go from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.5 seconds, which car fans find exciting.
Still, some owners have worries, especially about the car's transmission and drivetrain. They mention rough gear shifts and delays when changing gears.
The car's electronics also trouble some users. Issues with navigation and infotainment systems pop up in reviews.
Satisfaction with this model varies. Many enjoy the driving and design, but some are unhappy because of the problems mentioned.
About 70% of owners would suggest the car to others, but around 30% report technical issues that lower their happiness with the car.
Comparison to previous and subsequent GT-R model years
The 2009 Nissan GT-R marks a shift in its series, blending performance with new technology. Unlike the R34 Skyline GT-R, known for its pure power and simple mechanics, the 2009 model brought in advanced features like the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, which improved grip and cornering.
In 2012, the GT-R got small upgrades like a better suspension and more horsepower, up to 545 hp. Some fans felt these changes weren't groundbreaking, sparking debates about the 2009 model's iconic status.
The 2017 GT-R had a fresh design and better infotainment, but its high cost made it less attractive compared to older models. The 2020 GT-R came with a new look and more tech features but still struggled with its price-to-performance ratio against competitors.
When you look at these models, the 2009 GT-R stands out for its balance of new tech and strong performance, along with its reasonable price and solid build. This model's mix of tradition and innovation continues to appeal to car enthusiasts.
Tips for buying a used 2009 GT-R
The 2009 Nissan GT-R is a popular choice for those who love sports cars. If you're thinking about buying a used one, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Vehicle History Report: Get a detailed report on the car's history. Look for any accidents, problems with the title, or maintenance records. The GT-R is a powerful car, so knowing how it was driven before is important.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a skilled mechanic check the car. They should look at the brakes, suspension, and dual-clutch transmission to spot any issues.
- Modifications and Upgrades: Many GT-Rs have been altered to boost performance. Check any changes made to the car. Some might improve it, but others could cause problems or cancel any warranties.
- Maintenance Records: Ask for records of past maintenance. This will show how well the car was looked after.
Regular care is needed for a GT-R, as it has complex engineering and technology.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2009 GT-R
To keep your 2009 Nissan GT-R running smoothly and maintaining its value, follow these maintenance tips. The GT-R is a high-performance car and needs special attention to stay in top shape.
- Oil Changes: Use high-quality synthetic oil for oil changes. Do this every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. How often depends on your driving habits and conditions.
- Brake Check: Inspect the brakes every 10,000 miles. The pads and rotors may wear out quicker because of the car's performance.
- Tire Maintenance: Rotate the tires every 5,000 miles. Check the tire pressure once a month to keep them in good condition.
- Fluid Levels: Check and replace transmission, coolant, and brake fluids regularly to keep the car running well. Do this every 6 months.
Here's a quick look at when to do these tasks:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 – 5,000 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 miles |
| Fluid Checks | Every 6 months |
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Owning a 2009 Nissan GT-R can be a thrilling ride, but you should think about what it will be worth later and how much it will cost to keep. The GT-R is famous for its great performance and design, but its price has gone up and down over time. At first, it lost value quickly, like many fast cars do, but now its price is steadier. This makes it a good choice for fans.
How much you can sell it for depends on things like miles driven, its shape, and any changes made to it. A 2009 GT-R keeps about 50-60% of its first price after ten years. Regular cars usually keep about 35-45%. So, the GT-R is a good pick if you care about speed and selling it in the future.
Owning it costs money for things like repairs, insurance, and gas. Fixing it can cost more than other cars because it needs special parts and work. Here's a look at what owning it might cost:
| Cost Type | 2009 Nissan GT-R | Average Sports Car |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $2,000-$3,000 | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Insurance | $1,500-$2,500 | $1,000-$1,800 |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18 MPG combined | 22 MPG combined |
People Also Ask
What Are the Most Common Aftermarket Modifications for the 2009 GT-R?
For the 2009 GT-R, people often change the exhaust system, tune the engine, upgrade the suspension, add lighter wheels, and install intercoolers. These changes help the car go faster and handle better, making it more fun to drive.
How Does the 2009 GT-R Perform in Extreme Weather Conditions?
The 2009 GT-R does really well in bad weather. It has a special all-wheel-drive system and a smart suspension that help it stay stable. This means it can handle wet and snowy roads safely, making driving easier in tough conditions.
Are There Specific Insurance Considerations for Owning a 2009 GT-R?
When you get insurance for a 2009 GT-R, think about how fast it goes, how much repairs might cost, and any changes you make to it. It's smart to get full coverage because it's valuable. Make sure your insurance covers its speed and power too.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of the 2009 Gt-R's Transmission?
The 2009 GT-R's transmission usually lasts between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. How long it lasts can change based on how you drive, how well you take care of it, and if you make any changes to the car.
How Does the 2009 GT-R Compare to Other Sports Cars in Its Class?
The 2009 GT-R is really fast and has cool tech. It looks unique and has a strong engine, which makes it stand out among other sports cars. Car lovers like it because it's super fun to drive and offers great performance compared to others.