CarComplaints.com Notes: We don't recommend the 2009 Maxima nearly as highly as the 2007-2008 Maxima, because NHTSA complaints show a pattern of the electronic steering column lock module failing.

When the module fails it prevents the car from starting, & Nissan dealers charge over $1,000 (!!) to repair it. Nissan recalled the module on some other 2009 models with the same steering lock problem, but for some reason they left out the 2009 Maxima. See this page on the Nissan Maxima Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) defect.

If you're thinking about buying a 2009 Maxima, instead you might consider a 2007-2008 Maxima, or a newer model year.

Collapse Safety Ratings

NCAP 5-Star Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Driver FrontPassenger FrontDriver SidePassenger SideRollover
2009 Maxima 4-DR. w/SAB********************not tested
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IIHS Crash Test & Rollover Safety Ratings

Good Acceptable Marginal Poor

2009 Nissan Maxima 4-door sedan

Moderate Overlap FrontSmall Overlap DriverSmall Overlap PassengerSideRear1Rollover
G Overall
G Structure
A Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
G Left Leg Injury
G Right Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Moderate Overlap Crash Test report »
A Overall
M Structure
G Head/Neck Injury
G Chest Injury
G Hip/Thigh Injury
G Lower Leg Injury
G Restraints
Full IIHS Small Overlap Driver-side Crash Test report »
Not tested. G Overall
A Structure
Driver
G Head Protection
G Head/Neck Injury
G Torso Injury
G Pelvis/Legs Injury
Rear Passenger
G Head Protection
G Head/Neck Injury
G Torso Injury
G Pelvis/Legs Injury
Full IIHS Side Impact Crash Test report »
M Overall
G Geometry
M Dynamic
Full IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test report »
A Overall
Full IIHS Rollover Safety report »

1 — Power leather seats AHR.

Ratings only apply to the model and body or seat type tested. The date of manufacture and optional safety equipment can affect results. For full details see www.iihs.org.

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