“There's an obvious issue with the steering lock system in 2009 Altimas that Nissan fails to address with a recall. They opened an extended warranty period that ended in 2020 apparently, with no notification from the manufacturer or dealership that this was happening.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 26, 2024
“Car was working perfectly. Drove to school, nothing acting weird. Went to leave school and would not start. This is a push start ignition and it is stuck on lock with the key lights on. One orange/yellow stays on for a while and the other is the red flashing light. This is a steering lock module defect.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 24, 2023
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)
Complaints about the 2009 Altima peaked in 2016, with 406 filed that year. No recall on file covers the steering, the subject of 43% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.
Filed Sep 10, 20107,948 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN VEHICLES THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH A GARMIN NUVI MODEL 750 NAVIGATION SYSTEM. THE BATTERIES CONTAINED IN THE AFFECTED GPS UNITS CAN OVERHEAT.
Risk. OVERHEATED BATTERIES COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy. NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY GARMIN TECHNICIANS BY REPLACING THE BATTERY AND INSERTING A SPACER ON TOP OF THE BATTERY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GARMIN DIRECTLY AT 1-866-957-1981 OR NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Filed Sep 16, 200926,398 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 AND 2010 ALTIMA AND MAXIMA PASSENGER CARS. THE UPPER FRONT STRUT INSULATORS MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION RESULTING IN A POTENTIAL FOR THE STRUT INSULATOR TO CRACK.
Risk. IF THE STRUT INSULATOR IS CRACKED, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE STRUT ROD TO COME OUT OF ITS MOUNTING POSITION, WHICH COULD AFFECT VEHICLE STABILITY AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. NISSAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE FRONT STRUT INSULATORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN OCTOBER 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-NISSAN1 (1-800-647-7261).
Filed Jan 9, 2009225 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING 225 MY 2009 ALTIMA VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 214, "SIDE IMPACT PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION WELD ON THE DOOR ASSEMBLY.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy. ALL THE AFFECTED VEHICLES HAVE BEEN BROUGHT BACK FROM THE DEALERSHIPS AND REMEDIED AT THE FACTORY. NO VEHICLES HAD BEEN RETAILED.
Filed Sep 15, 20083,403 vehiclesNissan North America, Inc.
Defect. NISSAN IS RECALLING 3,403 MY 2009 ALTIMA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 16-INCH ALLOY WHEELS. SOME THESE WHEELS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THIS COULD CAUSE ONE OR MORE OF THE FIVE LUG NUTS ATTACHING THE WHEEL TO THE VEHICLE TO BECOME LOOSE.
Risk. IF THE LUG NUTS BECOME LOOSE, IT COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A LOSS OF CONTROL AND A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE TO DETERMINE IF IT IS EQUIPPED WITH ONE OF THE AFFECTED WHEELS. IF IT IS, THE WHEELS WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEW ONES THAT HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED TO THE CORRECT SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING SEPTEMBER 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.
Technical service bulletins
117 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2009 Altima. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
engine 15equipment 15electrical system 14steering 9transmission 8brakes 7visibility 7suspension 6
MAILQWarranty extensionMar 15, 2013seat belts
Nissan has decided in the interest of customer satisfaction, to extend the warranty for the Electronic Steering Column Lock unit on all 2009 Altima and Maxima vehicles.
DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN 2009 2010 MAXIMA AND ALTIMA ELECTRONIC STEERING COLUMN LOCK Voluntary Service Campaign ID # PC516 is No Longer Active. ï· Repair orders opened after May 28, 2020 are no longer eligible for reimbursement under Campaign ID # PC516. ï· Discard previous versions of NTB17-018.
Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) Voluntary Service Campaign UPDATE March 6, 2020 Please discard earlier versions of this bulletin. The original announcement from February 21, 2017 has been revised to include: ï· - Service Comm will deactivate PC516 on any unremedied VINs on May 29, 2020. ï· - Dealers may continue to schedule and repair vehicles …
VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN 2009 ? 2010 MAXIMA AND ALTIMA ELECTRONIC STEERING COLUMN LOCK INTRODUCTION Nissan is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to replace the Electronic Steering Column Lock (Steering Lock Unit) on certain specific 2009 ? 2010 model year Maxima and Altima vehicles. This issue does not affect steering or engine operation when the …
SERVICE INFORMATION When replacing the Electronic Steering Column Lock, there are two possible service parts that may be shipped to the dealer: 48700-9N00B or 48700-1NC0A. These part numbers are interchangeable. If you receive Electronic Steering Column Lock P/N 48700-1NC0A, the bolts that hold it in place may not line up. You may not be able to start the …
Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the steering, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Steering
Filed Jan 16, 2026145,000 milesIN
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. While attempting to start the vehicle, the steering wheel was locked, preventing the remote start feature from functioning as designed. The vehicle was towed to the residence and was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 145,000.
Engine
Filed Jun 10, 2025GA
1) What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The cylinders are constantly misfiring. 2 )How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Yes. 3) Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. 4) Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, by a private auto service center. 5) Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No. 6) Problem description: The service technician from the repair shop tried replacing the plug, coil, injector but it still misfires. Later the technician reported that this is a problem listed as recall (Recall Reference number : NTB13-056a, Campaign ID: PC131) for 2007-2008 Nissan Altima, but the same problem exists in 2009 Nissan Altima and is not listed as recall. Links for references are given below. The technician is sure that it is the same problem and NISSAN should fix it by recalling instead of asking the Owners to pay for this known recall issue. Repairing this issue by owners, would cost them several thousand dollars and is definitely not worth for a 2009 car. So I request the authorities to enforce this known issue as a recall to 2009 NISSAN ATLIMA as well as it has been done for 2007 and 2008 NISSAN ALTIMAs. Thanks and Regards. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF I
Steering
Filed Jan 13, 2025OH
After the steering Lock anti theft activated, steering lock ESCL module does not allow to turn on the ignition even keys are inserted.
Air Bags1 injured
Filed Dec 21, 2024CA
Was stopped at a red light - when light turned green car in front of me proceeded to go but stopped . I pressed on the brake at a speed of no more then 15 miles an hour and the driver side airbag from the steering wheel deployed . No other air bags deployed and there was no type of collision or contact with a vehicular.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 11, 202480,000 milesSC
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle using the key fob, the vehicle failed to start. The contact depressed the brake pedal and ignition button, and the vehicle failed to start. The contact was unable to depress the brake pedal to start the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering lock mechanism needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 3, 2024TX
Unknown
Air Bags
Filed Nov 1, 2024166,000 milesWA
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V521000 (Air Bags, Electrical System); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 166,000.
Suspension
Filed Oct 7, 2024184,000 milesGA
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, there was an abnormal clanking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was driving rough. The contact stated that the ABS, brake, check engine, and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there were no recalls for the failure on the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the strut housings had failed. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 184,000.
Power Train
Filed Aug 10, 2024PA
There is Transmission problems with the 2009 Nissan. The car shakes/ Vibrates when idle, when sitting to long at a light the idle engine delays the gas pedal from going forward, having to accelerate the gas pedal till it jumps to proceed to move forward, The liquid is up to date however the car can’t move backwards in reverse but can move forward.
Visibility/WiperCrash
Filed Jul 5, 2024WV
I purchased this car and the dashboard is melting and sticky. It’s affecting visibility to the point where I found myself trying to lift up to look overtop of the blinding glare on my windshield due to my melting dashboard and got into an minor accident Like was reflecting off the dashboard onto the windshield obstructing my view and resulted in me rear bumping into the rear of another car that was towing a very small trailer that I couldn’t see through the reflection on the windshield. Since then im noticing almost every dashboard on a Nissan Altima look the same if not worse and absolutely has to and needs to be acknowledged by Nissan for Nissan Altimas everywhere, not just in Florida. A recall NEEDS to be issued to resolve this very serious safety hazard. I’m lucky no one was injured. PLEASE address this issue so people can get the dashboard repaired without costing them even more money than they already paid for your defective product.
Electrical System
Filed Jun 7, 2024VA
The component that failed was the steering lock control, and yes it's available upon request with a tow. I was stranded with no way of getting home. Problem has been confirmed by dealer. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. No there was no symptoms prior to the failure. 06
Steering
Filed Mar 26, 2024NC
There's an obvious issue with the steering lock system in 2009 Altimas that Nissan fails to address with a recall. They opened an extended warranty period that ended in 2020 apparently, with no notification from the manufacturer or dealership that this was happening. Also, I have been seeing complaints from owners who did get the steering lock box replaced at that time and are again having an issue where they are not able to use their cars for the very same issue. This needs an immediate recall as this shows negligence on the part of the manufacturer as well as the dealerships to notify owners. An owner should not be liable for costs to fix such issues that are the responsibility of a manufacturer. This is also a safety issue as the car is not reliable and puts the lives of drivers at risk while they can be found stranded in unforeseen and dangerous situations.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Dec 8, 2023160,000 milesWI
The contact owned a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 mph, an unknown Chevrolet Postal truck pulled out and crashed into the vehicle. The steering wheel air bag exploded and hit his face. The contact sustained injuries to his face, wrist, chest, and hand during the impact, and medical attention was provided at the hospital. A police report was filed. The driver was able to pull the vehicle over safely. There was no reported fire, but the fire department was on the scene. The vehicle was towed to his residence. The contact called the local dealer, who stated that there were no recalls. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was deemed a total loss.The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
Air Bags
Filed Dec 3, 2023FL
Passenger airbag will not come on when you sit in seat
Electrical System
Filed Dec 1, 202355,000 milesTX
The contact owns a 2009 Nisan Altima. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to detect that the key was present, activating the anti-theft immobilizer and preventing the vehicle from starting. The “No Key Detected” warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to TSB Number: PC516. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 55,000.
Steering
Filed Nov 22, 2023TN
Parked car at a coffee shop, turned off engine, exited and locked doors. Upon coming back to vehicle, the vehicle would not start. We tried jumping the vehicle battery, that did not work. We tried replacing the battery in the key fobs, that did not work. We inserted the fob into the a lot near the steering column and that did not work. We had the car towed to an auto repair shop who stated the key fobs needed to be reprogrammed, but they didn’t have the equipment to do so. We called a locksmith the reprogram the fobs, but the locksmith was not able to do so. He said the vehicle returned 6 BCM codes. He was able to remove all but 2 and recommended I take care to Nissan. Had car towed to Nissan and they stated the steering column module lock needed to be replaced (quoted $1425 + tax). I mentioned the service campaign from 2017, but I was told my car’s VIN was not eligible for the campaign and repair would be my responsibility. Why is a known issue not being covered by Nissan??
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Oct 9, 2023GA
UNKNOWN... I JUST GOT THIS CAR I HAVEN'T EVEN HAD IT PUT IN MY NAME YET BUT WHEN I DRIVE IT THERE'S A REALLY BAD GLARE I THOUGHT IT WAS SOMETHING STICKY FROM THE PREVIOUS OWNER THAT WAS ON THE DASH BUT IT'S NOT I GOT SOME GOO OFF AND TRIED TO CLEAN IT OFF AND TRIED TO USE A SCRAPER AND IT'S NEVER ENDING STICKINESS SO I THOUGHT THAT WAS KIND OF WEIRD SO I LOOKED IT UP ONLINE FLORIDA HAS A RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE FOR THE DASH MELTING MY DASH IS LITERALLY MELTING BUT THEY DON'T HAVE A RECALL IN GEORGIA, TEXAS OR ANYWHERE ELSE THERE'S SUCH A BAD GLARE ON THIS CAR THAT I ALMOST HIT SOMEBODY WALKING DOWN THE ROAD AND ANOTHER INCIDENT I ALMOST HIT A KID ON A BICYCLE BECAUSE IT AFFECTS YOUR VISIBILITY I THINK THAT NISSAN SHOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THIS.THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND IT'S VERY DANGEROUS LUCKILY I SAW THEM BOTH IN TIME I WOULD HATE TO SEE IF SOMEBODY DIDN'T SEE THEM IN TIME I LOOKED UP THE PRICE OF IT AND IT'S ALMOST $2,000 TO HAVE THE DASH REPLACED THATS AN INSANE AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR SOMETHING THAT I FEEL LIKE IS NISSAN'S FAULT ITS CLEARLY A FAULTY DASHBOARD.IT MELTS IF IT GETS TOO HOT AND IT PUTS THIS GLARE ON THE WINDSHIELD AND ITS NOT JUST A SMALL GLARE IT IS TERRIBLE SO I WANTED TO SEE IF I COULD GET SOMETHING DONE OR IF MAYBE WE COULD MAKE NISSAN FIX THE CARS IN GEORGIA AND EVERYWHERE ELSE THAT HAS THIS CAR IT SEEMS TO ONLY BE 2008 AND 2009 I BELIEVE SO FAR FROM LOOKING IT UP ON THE INTERNET TODAY BUT THERE'S GOT TO BE SOMETHING THAT WE CAN ALL CAN DO TO MAKE THEM PAY TO
Electrical System
Filed Jun 28, 2023NC
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. Additionally, the steering wheel was locked. A message to wiggle the steering wheel while depressing the PUSH to START button was displayed. The contact stated that she followed the instructions however, the failure persisted. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact related the failure to Nissan TSB Number: NTB17-018. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine
Filed Jun 17, 2023FL
Purchased the vehicle from Quality Auto sales llc.had tge vehicle less than 48 hours in traffic stopped. Had it towed to find they just put it together to rode off the lot but transmission is gone. Brought as is could have lost my life. Paid 6990.25.i feel misled and cheated tried to see if they would exchange the vehicle even pay half the cost of repairs. The answer no. I really believe this place us misleading the community and doing so by hiding behind as is. The know these vehicles need extensive work but misguided the public. This could have cost me my life and I pray someone inspects this dealership hold them liable for these vehicles they are selling which could cause a very fatal accident because their more money hungry than ones personal safety. Please please help. Thus happen on my birthday same day I git news my mom has cancer and she lives 4hours away no vehicle to get her to moffitt. So unfair. They are very unprofessional as well talking over you etc. Major complaints with the attorney general's office within the last 2 months. This one is big please stop them
Electrical System
Filed May 30, 2023SC
Column steering sensor is out and car will not start. Nissan was covering this repair due to a known defect yet never recalled the car. I never had the issue until now and people in previous years were granted 1 repair. Nissan said I would have to cover it
Air Bags
Filed May 19, 2023100,000 milesFL
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Mar 20, 2023GA
I went to Autoworx on February 9, 2023 to purchase a 2009 Nissan Altima. The vehicle was very nice, looked good, no warning lights or anything. Drove great for about a week or 2. Then the car started breaking without me pressing the breaks. So I returned the car to Autoworx to have them check it out. The mechanic was assuring that the problem had been taking care of. After making another large payment that day, I left drove the car about a week. That's when the car started shaking. I mean shaking hard too and the SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on the dash board. So I take the car back to them on Monday March 13, 2023. The mechanic says "oh, make an appointment for Friday and I'll take the car to the shop so I can see what is going on". I made the appointment & continued to drive the car. In the days between Monday to Friday, the car began shaking harder. Suddenly, on Thursday March 16, 2023,while driving home the car stops accelerating. I had to keep turning the car off and on to get it going. On Friday, March 17, 2023 I arrived at the Autoworx location at 10:30am (the appointment time). When I arrived no one was there. We sat and waited for nearly an hr and a half. Once they arrived they looked at the car, drove it away and came back. After sitting there for 2/3 hours, the Owner [XXX] called me outside to inform me that the Catalytic Converter was bad (which they knew on Monday when I came in) and by me driving the car longer, the Transmission has went out. At this point I
Air Bags
Filed Mar 15, 2023CA
The passenger seat airbag light is blinking on the dashboard as well as the passenger airbag on/off light is on meaning that the passenger airbag if off. Dealership found code B1018 for the occupant sensor. They told me the passenger seat cushion needs to be replaced. This is a huge safety concern as the airbag will not deploy if I were to get into an accident due to a faulty sensor.
Steering
Filed Jan 24, 2023KY
Car was working perfectly. Drove to school, nothing acting weird. Went to leave school and would not start. This is a push start ignition and it is stuck on lock with the key lights on. One orange/yellow stays on for a while and the other is the red flashing light. This is a steering lock module defect. I have read where this is a reocurring problem and nissan has still not performed a recall and this obviously should have been done years ago. Now I am going to be out over $500 for a piece that nissan should cover. This is unacceptable.
Steering
Filed Jan 17, 2023MA
Steering column locks, causing key Fob to not be recognized. Hence, car will not start. This s/b recalled for a fix.
Steering
Filed Dec 25, 2022IN
My daughter drove the car to a gas station, pumped gas, came back out and the car wouldnt start. She was left stranded by a car that had to be towed. Had she been out of town without resources nearby she would have been in a very difficult situation. The engine randomly fails to start using push-button No manual workaround, leaving drivers stranded Failure to jumpstart using cables or a jump box and new battery The new replacement part wiped out the memory of the body control system causing more costs. $1200 - just to make the car start
Power Train
Filed Dec 18, 2022SC
Check engine light came on with sudden decrease in power. Code is P0840. Car is an 09, but has only 96k miles.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 12, 2022DE
The air bag light went on. Had all previous codes cleared by mechanic. a week later, light is now blinking. In the past year, came out to a car that would not start. Battery may have a bad cell. I think there might be an electrical problem that causes the car to shut down spontaneously.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 21, 2022CA
I was on the freeway on my way to LA then out of nowhere my car started to slow down then the check engine light came on and i was trying to move over to the emergency lane and and almost got hit by the car behind me and the one behind me in the lane i was switching in to once i got the side i turned the car off and on and it fixed it for a while but then then it did it again the same night later on and now it does it randomly
Engine
Filed Nov 14, 2022NY
2009 NISSAN ALTIMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ENGINE FAILURE.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 4, 2022120,000 milesIL
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start and the brake pedal was rigid. The contact's brother manipulated the ignition box until the vehicle was able to start. However, the failure reoccurred while the contact was in a parking lot. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle remained in the parking lot. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The dealer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 30, 2022OK
The steering column lock actuator went out & left me stranded at night away from my home. I got in the car & it wouldn't start.
Steering
Filed Jun 29, 2022SC
The vehicle was working just fine when I went to the grocery store and came out. I unlocked the car using the key fob, sat inside and the car stopped detected my key. The steering was locked, I tried to place it near the start push button, tried putting it in the slot but nothing happened. And I tried unlock button couple of times on the key fob and the mirrors went down. And there was no way to pull them up and I was stranded in the parking lot for no reason. I got it towed to the dealership and they told me Steering Lock Module went bad which is a common issue in 2009 Nissan Altima. Its a safety issue as I can get stranded anywhere anytime! And they are fixing it for 1300$ bucks! Please recall all 2009 Nissan Altima and change this part in them!
Steering
Filed May 28, 2022NY
My vehicle suddenly failed to start due to a defective ESCL, which locked the steering column. The vehicle needed to be towed to a Nissan dealership to replace the part at a cost of $1500. Defective ESCLs are a known issue and a service campaign was implemented by Nissan to replace these defective parts in 2009-2010 Altimas and Maximas. Unfortunately, the campaign expired in 2020 and Nissan refuses to fix this part after the expiration. I never received notification of this issue despite purchasing and owning the vehicle throughout the entire 2017-2020 campaign. Despite Nissan referring to this as a non-safety issue because the part is not known to fail during operation of the vehicle, this problem can cause operators to be suddenly stranded with no option of immediate repair. I believe the Nissan campaign to replace these defective parts should be reopened with no expiration, as there are hundreds of thousands of vehicles impacted.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 8, 2022CA
The vehicle steering got locked and would not want to start again, this could of happen anywhere and spend more money to tow and also a risk being in the freeway. This should be a recall due to a lot of complaints, or a free repair due to being very expensive, almost 200 for a safety issue. There is a TSB NTB10-053 ,
Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed Mar 4, 2022176,000 milesMD
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while at a stoplight, her vehicle would intermittently stall without warning. The contact had a friend inspect her vehicle, who immediately smelled an oil odor emitting from the vehicle. The contact's friend checked under her hood and discovered that oil had leaked out of her transmission and into her side spark plugs. The contact called the dealer where she had previously serviced her vehicle and was given an estimate for a diagnostic test. The contact declined the diagnostic test and called Darcars Nissan of College Park (9330 Baltimore Ave, College Park, MD 20740) and was given an appointment. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was given a case number. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 176,000.
Power Train
Filed Feb 23, 2022120,000 milesNY
The contact's sister owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while her sister was driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine revved loudly but the vehicle would not accelerate above 20 MPH. Additionally, the vehicle overheated, causing the antifreeze to leak. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, but the mechanic could not duplicate the failure. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, and the dealer informed the contact's sister that there was a recall for the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that was unrepaired. The dealer referred the contact's sister to West Herr Nissan of Orchard Park (3580 Southwestern Blvd, Orchard Park, NY 14127). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Structure › Interior Panels › Dashboard
Filed Feb 22, 202250,000 milesMS
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that the dashboard had started to melt due to sunlight exposure. She also stated that a glare from the melted dashboard would reflect onto the windshield, obstructing her vision while driving. The contact stated that the failure had worsened over the years and that the melting had spread across the entire dashboard. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
Power Train
Filed Feb 15, 2022TX
The CVT transmission CONTINUES to "FAIL"; the transmission goes into "fail-safe mode" when the driving long distances. The engine/transmission will decelerate right in the middle of the roadway while traveling at highway speeds. This is dangerous and WILL cost someone their life.
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 202260,000 milesNY
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that upon pressing the start button to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start after several attempts. The contact stated that he was able to open the trunk and activate the alarm using the key fob, but the vehicle would not start. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact referenced NHTSA ID Number: 10119195 (Wheels, Steering). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised that they could not assist because the VIN was not included in a recall related to the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 28, 2022NY
In 2009 Nissan built S models with an SL package. These models came with a push button start in lieu of a key start. These vehicles came with an electronic steering wheel lock mechanism. The electronic steering wheel lock mechanism was deemed defective on the push button start vehicles. Nissan ultimately did a campaign to have this repaired. In November 2021, my Nissan Altima electronic steering mechanism prevented my vehicle from turning on. I researched the problem and learned of the expired Nissan campaign. I never received notification of said campaign. I contacted Nissan Consumer Affairs and started a complaint. After being told by Nissan Consumer Affairs that my vehicle didn't qualify for the campaign, I paid Rockland Nissan $1411.60 for the repair. Soon thereafter, I purchased another electronic part associated with this push button start system. During this transaction, I provided the Rockland Nissan parts employee with my vin number. I learned that my vin number reflected that my vehicle has a key start ignition. I literally had to escort the parts employee outside and show them the vehicle to prove that it did have a push button start. I again contacted Nissan Consumer Affairs. I informed them of my findings. Stated it was unfair that my vehicle didn't qualify for their campaign because the vin shows up as the vehicle having a key start ignition. I sent photos of my vehicle, my original window sticker showing that my vehicle came with a push button start system. The
Air Bags
Filed Jan 21, 2022CA
So while I am driving with a passenger my sign on my dashboard shows that there is no airbag for my passenger
Steering
Filed Jan 20, 202280,000 milesMN
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that while his son was attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact mentioned that the vehicle failed to start and was given a jump start by another vehicle. The contact stated that the steering column box needed to be tapped in order for the vehicle to operate. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in Technical Service Bulletin: 10119195. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Steering
Filed Jan 13, 2022CA
My vehicle is inoperable due to electronic steering column box. This locking mechanism is not engaging and has caused the vehicle to stop operation. I have been told this system is an anti theft device. It stopped working all of the sudden and I had to have the vehicle towed home thankfully I did not get into an an accident due to this mechanical failure.
Steering
Filed Jan 5, 2022NY
2009 Nissan Altima It's relating to the Steering Assembly lock that was defective. I have this vehicle and this issue came up in 2013 and it was fixed. I had this issue come up again in late 2021 and I need to fix it again out of pocket. I read in your article that in 2017 Nissan issued a fix to this. I paid about $600 in 2013 and now they're quoting $1800 plus tax. Would I still be eligible to have this covered by Nissan as it's a known recurring problem? Thanks, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 4, 2022MA
I am having an issue where my car door (driver side) will either not unlock or not stay shut. I have been stuck in my car two days in a row after arriving at work but what is even more disturbing is that my car door went flying open last night on the way home from work when it was completely shut. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS !!! Where do I file a "complaint" for lack of a better term ? Or concern to have this investigated ? This is a 2009 Nissan Altima.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 29, 202197,000 milesIL
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle and attempting to start the vehicle, the contact depressed the Push to Start button and depressed on brake pedal to start the vehicle however, the vehicle would not start. The contact stated she tried to start her vehicle manually and the vehicle still would not start. She then had an independent mechanic arrive to her residence to diagnose the vehicle. The contact was informed that similar vehicles had experienced the same failure. The contact stated that she contacted the dealer and was informed that her vehicle was not under an open recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 97,000.
Steering
Filed Nov 29, 2021KY
Steering column is locked not allowing the car to turn on.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 22, 2021TX
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle would not start up. The vehicle was inspected by a locksmith and diagnosed with needing the electronic steering column lockbox replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was not available.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 19, 202180,000 milesPA
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle and attempting to start the vehicle, the contact depressed the Push to Start button and depressed on brake pedal to start the vehicle however, the vehicle would not start. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who inspected the vehicle and replaced the battery and the key slot to attempt to fix the issue however, the battery replacement failed to fix the vehicle. The contact called a local dealer and was informed over the phone that the failure could be related to the electronic steering locking module and would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Complaints 1-50 of 1,547, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the Altima years to avoid: owners filed 1,547 complaints, 6.5 times as many as a typical Altima year. The most common complaint is about the steering (43%).
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Nissan Altima?
The steering: 659 of the 1,547 complaints (43%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (64%), will not start (51%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (10%). The typical report comes at 80,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2009 Nissan Altima have?
4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 10, 2010. The largest, 09V358000, covered 26,398 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2009 Nissan Altima problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 79,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 80,000 miles.
Are there service bulletins for the 2009 Nissan Altima?
The manufacturer filed 117 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (15), the electrical system (14) and the steering (9). They include a warranty extension, MAILQ, filed Mar 15, 2013. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Sep 10, 2010. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.