By Jude Knox The 2009 Nissan 370Z has faced several issues, including excessive oil consumption, transmission difficulties, and electrical problems such as battery draining. Owners often report uneven tire wear and braking concerns that can lead to decreased safety. Notable recalls addressed steering wheel locking, inaccurate fuel gauges, and rear suspension faults. Despite these problems, the 370Z is praised for its performance with a 3.7-liter V6 engine offering 332 horsepower, appealing handling, and solid resale value. Potential buyers should conduct thorough inspections and be aware of maintenance history to mitigate risks associated with these common issues. Insights await for those eager to learn more.
Overview of the 2009 370Z
The 2009 Nissan 370Z is a key step in the Z-car series, blending new design with performance upgrades. It has a 3.7-liter V6 engine that delivers 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in about 5.2 seconds. You can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission, both offering smooth gear changes and responsive handling.
The car features a low profile with a long hood and a rear hatchback that nods to earlier models while adding a modern touch. Its lightweight aluminum body helps with agility and fuel efficiency, weighing in at around 3,200 pounds.
Technology boosts the driving experience with a multi-function display, Bluetooth, and an optional high-end audio system. Safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, and multiple airbags.
Compared to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, the 370Z excels in handling and maneuverability. While the Mustang has a stronger V8, the 370Z focuses on balance and driver enjoyment.
The 2009 Nissan 370Z combines sports car performance with both tradition and modern innovations, making it a solid choice for car lovers.
Common problems reported for the 2009 370Z
Issues reported for the 2009 Nissan 370Z are varied, affecting different components of the vehicle.
Here's a breakdown of the notable problems:
Engine
– Owners often notice the car uses more oil than expected. This could cause engine problems if not checked regularly. The issue is reported with moderate frequency and hasn't changed much over the years.
Transmission
– Many drivers have trouble with the clutch, especially when shifting gears. This problem seems to be getting worse in later models, suggesting there might be a design or manufacturing issue.
Electrical System
– The car sometimes has battery drain problems, which have slightly increased over time. Signs include warning lights on the dashboard and the car not starting, leading to concerns about reliability.
Suspension
– There are frequent complaints about uneven tire wear, which can cause vibrations while driving. This affects how the car handles and feels on the road. The frequency of these issues remains consistent.
Brakes
– Some drivers report brake problems like noise and reduced braking power. These issues can make the car less safe, as they lead to longer stopping distances.
Interior/Exterior
– The car's paint can chip, leaving visible marks and scratches. If not taken care of, these can lead to rust. This problem is reported moderately and hasn't changed much over time.
Cooling System
– Overheating is a less common issue but still reported by some owners. This shows up as high temperature readings and warning lights, which can affect engine performance and reliability.
Recall information specific to the 2009 370Z
Owners of the 2009 Nissan 370Z have reported several problems related to the car's safety and performance.
Here are the main recalls for this model:
- Steering Wheel Lock Issue: The steering wheel might lock on its own, which can be dangerous. This problem needed checking and possibly replacing the steering column.
- Fuel Gauge Problem: Some drivers found their fuel gauges were not accurate. This could lead to running out of fuel unexpectedly. The recall aimed to fix the gauge to show the correct fuel level.
- Brake Light Switch Problem: The brake lights might not work because of a faulty switch. This increases the risk of getting hit from behind. The solution was to replace the switch.
- Rear Suspension Faults: Some cars had parts in the rear suspension that wore out too soon. This affected how the car handled and its stability.
The recall involved changing these parts to improve performance.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2009 model
Owners of the 2009 Nissan 370Z have mixed feelings. Many like the car's strong performance. The engine is a 3.7-liter V6 that gives 332 horsepower. This makes the car fast and responsive. The rear-wheel drive and good suspension make it fun to drive.
Some people aren't happy with the inside of the car. The sporty look is nice, but the materials inside are not what some expect for the price. There are complaints about noise from the road and not enough trunk space, which can be a problem on long trips.
Satisfaction varies. Many are happy with how the car handles and performs. Some have issues with reliability and service costs.
Surveys show about 75% of owners are happy with their purchase. However, about 20% would not recommend it because of worries about build quality and after-sales support.
Comparison to previous and subsequent 370Z model years
The 2009 Nissan 370Z followed the 350Z, known for its good performance and reliability. The 370Z had a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 332 horsepower, which was more than the 350Z's 306 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6. It also handled better thanks to a lighter aluminum body and improved suspension.
Later 370Z models kept the same engine but got small updates. The 2013 version brought a new Nismo model with 350 horsepower, but its sporty suspension made the ride less comfy.
From 2014 on, the 370Z improved tech and infotainment features, though its core performance stayed the same.
The 370Z faced competition from cars like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, which had more modern tech and more horsepower at similar prices. The 370Z's older design and small interior space became noticeable next to these newer cars.
The 2009 370Z offered strong performance and handling, but it didn't have some of the modern features of later models and other cars.
Tips for buying a used 2009 370Z
If you're thinking about buying a used 2009 Nissan 370Z, it's wise to do some homework and check the car thoroughly. This model is famous for its sporty drive, but you should look out for common problems and make sure the car is in good shape. Here's how you can make a smart choice:
1. Inspect the Car Thoroughly: Look at the outside and inside for any damage, rust, or signs of past accidents.
Pay extra attention to the bottom and suspension parts to see how the car was cared for.
2. Look at Service Records: Get the car's maintenance records to see if it has had regular check-ups.
Check for oil changes, brake work, and if any recalls were fixed.
3. Take a Test Drive: Drive the car yourself.
Listen for strange sounds from the engine or gearbox and see how it handles. Make sure the brakes, steering, and suspension are working well.
4. Read Owner Reviews: Check out reviews and forums from other owners.
This can give you useful insights into common problems, how reliable it is, and what people think about it.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2009 370Z
To keep your 2009 Nissan 370Z running well, follow these maintenance tips. Regular care helps your car last longer and run smoothly. Here's a simple guide on what to do and when:
Maintenance Schedule for 2009 Nissan 370Z
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Change engine oil | Every 5,000 miles or 6 months | Use good synthetic oil for best results. |
| Rotate tires | Every 5,000 miles | Helps tires wear evenly and last longer. |
| Replace brake fluid | Every 2 years | Keeps brakes working well and stops moisture buildup. |
| Change air filter | Every 15,000 miles | A clean filter helps the engine run better. |
Check fluid levels often. Look at the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. This keeps your car reliable. Always inspect the brakes, including pads and rotors, for safety.
Replace spark plugs around every 60,000 miles. This helps the engine run well. Get repairs done at certified Nissan service centers. They follow the maker's rules, which can prevent problems later. Keeping a detailed service history can be useful if you decide to sell the car.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Taking care of your 2009 Nissan 370Z makes it run better and helps keep its value when you sell it. This car is popular and holds its value well compared to other sports cars. It usually loses about 15-20% of its value each year, which is better than many other cars like it.
When you think about how much it costs to own the car for a long time, consider things like insurance, repairs, and gas. The 370Z costs less to maintain than other sports cars because it has simple parts that are used in other Nissan cars.
Here's a table showing some important numbers about the resale value and costs of owning a 2009 Nissan 370Z:
| Cost Factor | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Average Resale Value (2023) | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Annual Maintenance Costs | $600 – $800 |
| Insurance Premium (Annual) | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 18 city / 26 highway |
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Economy of the 2009 Nissan 370Z?
The 2009 Nissan 370Z gets about 18 miles per gallon when driving in the city and about 26 miles per gallon on the highway. This means it balances between using fuel wisely and having strong power, like a good sports car should.
How Does the 370Z Perform in Winter Conditions?
The Nissan 370Z doesn't do very well in winter because it has rear-wheel drive and sits low to the ground. You can put on better tires and drive carefully to help, but it's still not great in snow and ice.
What Are the Available Color Options for the 2009 Model?
The 2009 Nissan 370Z comes in cool colors like Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, and Pearl White. It also has bright options like Red and Yellow. These colors make the car look sporty and really eye-catching.
Are There Aftermarket Upgrades Available for the 370Z?
Yes, you can add lots of cool parts to the Nissan 370Z. These include things to make it go faster, like new exhausts and engine tunes, and things to make it look cooler, like body kits and special wheels.
What Is the Warranty Coverage for a Used 2009 Nissan 370Z?
When you buy a used 2009 Nissan 370Z, it might have a powertrain warranty. This warranty can change based on how many miles it has and who owned it before. Check the car's service history to know exactly what is covered.