By Finn Hart The 2009 Nissan Armada, despite its spacious interior and strong towing ability, faces several common problems. Transmission issues include delayed shifts, while suspension problems lead to abnormal noises and component wear. Electrical failures, particularly battery drainage, frequently occur, alongside braking concerns such as soft pedal feel. Safety recalls involve airbag malfunctions and fuel leakage risks. Owners express satisfaction tied to performance but report fuel economy issues averaging 14 MPG city. Maintenance costs hover around $1,200 annually, and depreciation impacts resale value significantly. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect these aspects before purchasing, as these insights highlight essential considerations.
Overview of the 2009 Armada
The 2009 Nissan Armada is a big SUV known for its roomy inside and strong towing ability. It has a 5.6-liter V8 engine that gives 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque. This lets it tow up to 9,100 pounds when set up right, making it a good choice for those who need to pull heavy loads.
Inside, the 2009 Armada seats up to eight people with three rows. The cabin is comfy and flexible, using good materials with options like leather seats and modern entertainment systems. There's 20.0 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which can grow a lot when you fold down the back seats.
Safety features include electronic stability control, antilock brakes, and many airbags. You can also get extras like a rearview camera and parking sensors for more safety.
When compared to other SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition, the Armada has better towing strength and a unique look. But it might not be the best on gas, getting about 13-20 mpg. This is common for big SUVs.
Common problems reported for the 2009 Armada
The 2009 Nissan Armada has several common problems affecting its main parts and systems. Here's an overview of the issues by area:
Transmission
The transmission often has problems like delayed shifting and harsh engagement. This happens a lot and hasn't changed much over time.
Drivers may notice slipping gears and jerking while driving, which can make the car less smooth and responsive. Satisfaction among owners is about 60%.
Suspension
Suspension issues include noises from the front end and parts wearing out too soon. These problems occur moderately often and have become more common.
Drivers hear noises when driving over bumps, which can make the ride less comfortable and harder to handle. Satisfaction is around 65%.
Electrical System
The electrical system frequently has issues like the battery draining and alternators not working correctly. These problems have been consistent over time.
Symptoms include warning lights on the dashboard or the car not starting, which can lead to major issues. Satisfaction is low at 55%.
Braking System
Problems with the brakes, such as a soft pedal feel and pads wearing out too soon, happen moderately often. These have remained the same over the years.
Drivers may notice a soft brake pedal and squeaking sounds, which can affect the car's stopping power and safety. Satisfaction here is 70%.
Engine
Engine issues, like using too much oil and timing chain problems, are common. These have settled in later years but still cause trouble.
Signs include engine noise and check engine lights, which can lead to bigger issues if not addressed. Satisfaction stands at 60%.
Fuel System
The fuel system has moderate problems like fuel pump failures and poor fuel economy. These are being reported more often.
Drivers might find it hard to start the car or experience stalling, lowering performance and efficiency. Satisfaction is 65%.
HVAC System
The heating and cooling system faces moderate issues with air conditioning and heating not working well. These problems are slightly on the rise.
Symptoms include uneven cabin temperatures and bad smells, affecting comfort. Satisfaction is about 68%.
These problems show the need for regular upkeep and timely repairs to keep the 2009 Nissan Armada running well.
Recall information specific to the 2009 Armada
The 2009 Nissan Armada had several recalls during its production. These recalls were meant to fix safety issues that could threaten the safety of drivers and passengers.
Here are the main problems that led to recalls:
- Airbag Malfunction: The airbags might not deploy in a crash, which could lead to injuries.
- Fuel Leakage: Some models had a faulty fuel sender unit, which could cause fuel leaks and create a fire risk.
- Steering Control: There was an issue with the steering gear assembly that could cause loss of control of the vehicle.
- Seatbelt Defects: Some seatbelt assemblies were defective and might not hold passengers securely in a crash.
Nissan asked owners to bring their vehicles to authorized dealers to fix these issues for free.
It's a good idea for 2009 Armada owners to check for any recalls that might still be outstanding. They can stay updated by checking with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Nissan's official resources for any new recalls or service needs.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2009 model
Satisfaction for the 2009 Nissan Armada mainly depends on its size and performance. Many owners like how roomy it is, comfortably fitting up to eight passengers.
It's a hit with families and people needing lots of storage because of its big cargo space. With the seats up, it offers 20.0 cubic feet, and with the rear seats down, it expands to 97.1 cubic feet.
The performance gets a thumbs up too, thanks to its strong 5.6-liter V8 engine. This engine gives 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque.
Drivers say it feels smooth and steady whether they're in town or on the highway. Plus, it can tow up to 9,100 pounds, which is great for pulling trailers or boats.
But some folks worry about the fuel use. It usually gets between 13 and 18 miles per gallon, depending on how you drive, which might not work for those who want better gas mileage.
While many praise its solid build, a few have reported problems with the electrical parts and transmission, which can affect how happy they are with their purchase.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Armada model years
The Nissan Armada has changed a lot over the years. The first model in 2004 came with a strong 5.6-liter V8 engine. This engine has been a key feature in later models too.
But, the early models used a lot of fuel, getting only about 13-16 miles per gallon. This fuel problem didn't go away in later models.
In 2017, the Armada got a new look and better tech like the Safety Shield. Fuel usage got a bit better, reaching about 14-19 miles per gallon. However, people started noticing issues with the transmission, similar to what happened in earlier versions.
The 2021 model tried to fix old problems. It offered a nicer interior and better infotainment systems. But new problems showed up, especially with the electronics, like issues with navigation and driver-assistance tools.
People say that the Armada is now more comfortable and has better tech. Yet, some problems are still there. The vehicle still sways too much and doesn't brake well.
In 2009, even though it was roomy, users complained that the engine didn't perform well when carrying heavy loads.
Tips for buying a used 2009 Armada
When looking at a used 2009 Nissan Armada, keep a few things in mind to make a good choice. This model is roomy and great for towing, but it has some issues to watch out for.
First, check the car's history. Look for any past accidents or service records. A clear record can show if the car was well taken care of and point out any problems.
Next, check how the car works:
- Transmission: The 2009 Armada can have transmission troubles. During a test drive, see if the gears change smoothly or if there are any slips.
- Suspension: Listen for strange noises or feel for vibrations. These could mean the suspension needs work.
- Electronics: Make sure all the electronics work, like the infotainment system and power windows, as these can sometimes fail.
- Tires: Look at the tires for uneven wear, which might mean there are alignment or suspension issues.
Lastly, look up prices for similar models in your area. This helps you know if you're getting a fair deal.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2009 Armada
To keep a 2009 Nissan Armada running well, follow a simple maintenance plan. Regular care helps prevent problems and keeps the vehicle in good shape.
Here's a basic maintenance schedule:
| Maintenance Task | When to Do It |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 – 5,000 miles |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 – 7,500 miles |
| Brake Check | Once a year |
Use good-quality engine oil for the 5.6-liter V8 engine. Synthetic oil can help the engine last longer. Rotate the tires to wear evenly and get good traction on the road.
Check the brakes and suspension parts often. The Armada is heavy, so brakes might wear out faster. Keep an eye on fluid levels like coolant and transmission fluid. Proper levels can stop overheating and other issues.
Look after the electrical parts too, like the battery and alternator. These keep the car running smoothly. Regular service can prevent expensive repairs later. Keeping up with these tasks helps the Armada run reliably.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The resale value and long-term costs are important for those who own a Nissan Armada, a large SUV. These factors affect both money planning and how satisfied you might feel with your vehicle. The Armada is strong and performs well, but you need to think about its financial impact over time.
Cars usually lose value as they get older. The Nissan Armada loses about 60% of its value after five years. This is something to think about if you plan to sell or trade it. Things like how many miles you've driven, the car's condition, and how many people want to buy it can change this number.
Owning a car long-term means paying for things like maintenance, insurance, fuel, and repairs. The maintenance cost for an Armada is about $1,200 each year. This is something you should budget for, especially if your family uses the SUV a lot.
Here's a quick look at the Armada's costs:
| Aspect | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|
| Average Resale Value Loss | 60% after 5 years |
| Estimated Annual Maintenance | $1,200 |
| Average Insurance Cost | $1,400 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 14 City / 19 Hwy |
| Typical 5-Year Ownership | $30,000 |
People Also Ask
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a 2009 Nissan Armada?
A 2009 Nissan Armada can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles if you take good care of it. This means driving carefully, keeping it clean, and doing regular check-ups. How long it lasts also depends on where you drive and how you drive.
Are There Aftermarket Parts Available for the 2009 Armada?
Yes, there are many aftermarket parts for the 2009 Nissan Armada. These parts can make the car look nicer or even run better. People like using them to save money on repairs or to make their car unique and special.
How Does the 2009 Armada Handle in Snow or Off-Road?
The 2009 Armada handles well in snow and off-road because it has a strong four-wheel-drive system and good ground clearance. But how well it does also depends on the driver's skills and the quality of the tires.
What Are the Best Upgrades for a 2009 Nissan Armada?
To make a 2009 Nissan Armada better, you can upgrade the suspension to make rides smoother, get all-terrain tires for better grip, and add a modern infotainment system so you can connect your phone and enjoy music and other features easily.
How Does Insurance Cost Compare for the 2009 Armada?
Insurance for the 2009 Nissan Armada can be more expensive because it's a big car and costs a lot to fix. How much you pay depends on things like where you live and your driving history. Bigger cars like this often have higher insurance rates.