Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid
NHTSA data on file today
try.vin couldn't confirm NHTSA's recall list for the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid, so this page doesn't state a recall count — check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for current campaigns. 54 owner complaints are on file.
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 26 complaints
- Electrical System 21 complaints
- Engine 7 complaints
- Unknown or Other 5 complaints
- Air Bags 4 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 3 complaints
Of the 54 complaints on file, 2 report a crash (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $6,000–$9,000AI estimate — not from NHTSA data
The 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid has frequent issues with steering and electrical components, leading to a below-average reliability rating. While the hybrid system experiences fewer problems, recurring steering complaints and electrical issues compromise overall dependability.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage (AI estimate) | Cost range (AI estimate) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| steering | 50,000–90,000 miles | $400–$1,200 | very common |
| electrical system | 60,000–100,000 miles | $200–$1,000 | common |
| engine | 80,000–120,000 miles | $800–$3,000 | occasional |
AI estimate — not from NHTSA data: the mileage bands and repair-cost ranges above. Get a written repair quote before you budget.
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- oil and filter changes
- tire rotations
- brake inspections
- coolant system flush
- hybrid battery check
- transmission fluid replacement
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- steering wheel vibration
- frequent battery drain
- engine misfire
- unresponsive brakes
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid at the time. The rating is an AI assessment; cost and mileage figures are AI estimates, not NHTSA data.