2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid Engine Problems

“Engine light had been going on and off, car shuddered occasionally. Took car in for that along with 60k service. Mechanic said diagnostic codes revealed need to replace cylinder head due to excess carbon buildup. Said it was a common problem they see. Car has used synthetic oil from beginning only 62,000 miles.”

“Starting system does not recognize the key fob. I can lock and unlock the car with the fob but can not start it. Inserting the fob into the accessory key port makes no difference. Research concludes this is a common malfunction that leaves motorists stranded and that the solution is resolved with the replacement of the steering lock mechanism. Again, this appears to be a common, known issue.”

“The steering lock assembly seized up while the car was parked, so the engine starter was prevented from turning on and the steering and transmission remained locked. This happened in the dead of winter and at near-zero temperatures, requiring a tow to a dealer and a $1200 repair, which Nissan later reduced to $450. I accepted this on condition it would not constitute a settlement. This is a defect that turns up in all altimas built during several months in 2008, which they have acknowledged. …”

“The steering lock unit (part number 48700-9n00b) needed replacement. The steering lock unit did not properly engage when the vehicle was turned off. Because the unit did not engage, the vehicle would not start. I was left stranded in a parking garage at night and had to have the vehicle towed. The nearest dealership was in alexandria, va. They charged $900 to diagnose and repair this problem. Since the vehicle had over 36,000 miles, it was not covered under warranty. This is a widely known issue with Nissan vehicles and is present on several online forums. …”

“The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled with an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact researched the warning light in the owners manual, which informed the contact to shut-off the vehicle and immediately contact the dealer. The vehicle was towed to Nissan of bradenton (1611 cortez rd w, bradenton, florida 34207) however, the mechanic was unable to start the vehicle to diagnose the failure. The contact stated that the shift interlock was previously replaced. The contact was informed that the warranty had expired. …”