Used 2009 Nissan Versa Consumer Reviews
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lightly driven.
I got this car as a spare in the 2009 cash for clunkers. drove it just now and then. I started driving it every day, 2 month ago, 20k miles on it. My thoughts are that my base model came with no arm rests, luckily after market ones are easy to get. Also, the electronic steering wheel causes constant interference on the aftermarket AM radio. The worst thing about this car is the front wheels are so far out in front, that there is no weight on them, trying to accelerate into traffic causes tire spin even on dry roads, almost impossible to pull out into traffic on wet roads. I am still on factory tires so this might get better if better tires are eventually installed. 10/2017, car now has 33,000 miles and got the first new set of tires. Good, name brand tires made a great difference. Comparing the two tires side by side, the original tires have very hard rubber, almost like soft plastic, new tires have soft rubber, easy to deform with fingers. Handling is better, ride is softer and traction is better. Just got notice that the Air Bag is included in the recall, will have to wait several months for the dealer to get parts in stock to fix. Getting really tired of the manual doors locking themselves. The lock lever is positioned so that when you open the door from the inside, your fingers move across the locking tab, and in the same motion, and before you know it.. the door is locked. Another irritation is that many times when you use the blinkers, the same leaver, in the same action will turn on the high beams.
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Nissan Should Be Ashamed
This is my first new car, it has been driven for a year and I am considering trading it in. For a buyer that was supposedly making an upgrade from a 295,000 mile 1991 Toyota Previa I am truly disappointed. The car has been in the shop for major repairs like a malfunctioning A/C condenser, and braking problems. I never had such problems with my Previa. The engine knocks pretty loud in the mornings too. Needless to say, this was one of the worst cars I've bought, and I cant get rid of it because the resale value on the Nissan Versa and Nissan Sentra drop like a stone once you drive them off the lot
- 1.8 S SedanMSRP: $5,999346 mi away
- 1.8 SL 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $6,995430 mi away
- 1.8 S 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $3,995531 mi away
Best affordable car ever.
I picked the Nissan Versa because of how comfortable it was, because it was several thousand cheaper than any comparable car (say the honda fit) and because of the insane amount of room on the inside. Even though it feels like a compact car, I feel like I have the space of a small SUV. I'm not sure what people are talking about it being not fun to drive. Anyone that has driven my car has mentioned how great my car handles and it has great pick up. I feel like I zip and zoom in it. I would recommend this car to anyone who does not want to fork over a bunch of money for bells and whistles but wants the most practical and comfortable car for the price.
The Worst Vehicle I Have Ever Owned
I have had this vehicle for almost 2 years now and from the moment I bought it I have had problems. It has been to the dealer multiple times, and when I say multiple I mean way too many to count. I have had start up issues since I bought the vehicle, which leads me to believe that the fuel pump is bad, I have alignment problems, I have a car alarm that works sometimes but not at other times, the material on the interior doors has been falling off for some time now, the car makes noises when I turn, and worst of all and most recent the piece of junk is having transmission problems at just 25,000 miles and the dealer cannot fix it. I hate this car, don't think of buying one its a nightmare.
2009 Nissan Versa lots of problems
Car is cheap for a reason. Between 140k and 150k miles far has been a nightmare. I’ve spent almost $3k fixing everything imaginable on this car in last 6 months. Would NOT buy again.
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Would not buy another one
I have had the Versa for about 4 months; I would not buy another one. This car has been back to the dealer several times to fix small problems. It has several flaws that are important to me. One the AC is undersized for Florida, when out in the heat you need to put the air flow to recycle to keep the cabin cool. Although the noise level when running is the lowest of the other cars I test drove; it is the loudest car I ever be in when you accelerate. Last but not least. The drivers side window wiper is about twice the size of the passenger side, and it throws its water on to the passenger side. Thus in the rain the passenger side is never clear.
Little Big One
Before I ever test drove this car, I climbed in the back seat to see about the leg room. There was tons! This car is roomy both front and back seats, but the outside of this car makes it look tiny. It maneuvers thrive traffic very well and gets into small parking spaces. I love this car!
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Dissapointing new car
I bought 1.6 versa without air conditioning or radio. After purchase I find out that there is no kit to add air conditioning. I dont know about the 1.8 versa but this 5 speed has the engine turning at 3000 rpm at 60mph,sounds like it is ready to blow up at highway speed. I am very dissapointed overall and will get rid of this thing before the warm weather.
Never Buy Nissan
Transmission went out on me at 90K miles despite regular upkeep. Now I'm finding out online that Nissan has had frequent transmission problems even citing a class action lawsuit. Unfortunately it only goes as far back as 2010. The engine compartment is filled with plastic. You have a plastic intake manifold sitting directly over the engine. If it gets hot and cracks, spfft. Enjoy replacing that. Everything is constructed in such a cramped and over thought out way. Have fun replacing your own headlights as you dig your hand between cramped parts, unable to see where they line up and then have to pop in the pins that hold it with one hand. If you need to replace your belt, alternator, water pump, etc., it's a blast to have to lift up your car, take off the tire, pop out the pins of the plastic lining in the wheel well, and line up tiny metal holes just reach the pulleys. Every mechanic I meet mocks Nissan. My mechanic talks crap on every Nissan he works on. I've been watching Scotty Kilmer. He mocks Nissan. My next car will be a Toyota or Ford. If I wanted junk, I'd buy a Chrysler. At least it'd look nicer.
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first time buyer
I am absolutely in love with my Versa. Previously drove another Nissan and so was interested in buying another one. As a first time buyer did a lot of research on cars and found this to be the best. Initially I wasn't interested in a hatchback but this has more of a sporty look and that old timey station wagon feel. Comfortable car, features great, and good for road trips. As a recent graduate, the price was extremely affordable. I would pick this car again and again if I had to do it over.
Fourth Nissan car
This will be my 4th Nissan car. I have had a Sentra and 2 Altimas and got them all new and now a 2009 Versa! Never had any problems with any of them, general care, tires @ 70,000 miles and old change on a regular basis. My Versa car was purchased for the price and gas prices for driving to work. Its just me and my husband. Versa base model with no extras no power locks,no power windows, etc. I researched all the other types of small cars in this area with about the same conclusion. Versa! 500 miles great car. Design area: No place to put your right arm while driving. Light in car not good for front light for people in the front seat. All in all good car for the price and gas needs.
Great affordable car
We replaced our old Ford F 150 extended cab with the new Versa. Our other Vehicle is a 2001 Ford F250 crew cab, so going small was a big issue for us. We were used to having lots of room. We have had our Versa for 3 months. So far, we love it. It is very comfortable especially for it's size. We recently took a 700+ mile trip down to Florida in it. We are not little people by any stretch of the imagination, yet we were quite comfortable. Gas mileage was a strong 36 to 38 miles to the gallon....we love that!
Happy with the Versa
I bought the car new in July of this year. Am happy with it to date. I don't know about the 1.6, but I find the 1.8 has more than enough power. I do a lot of highway mileage, and the car never has any problem reaching highway speeds. Fuel consumption is Ok... I guess that's the price you pay for having a car with more power and that is slightly larger than the competition. Due to the car's height and it's low weight it tends to get blown around a little on windy days, but again I suppose that is to be expected. I think the interior space is exceptional. My father has a Pathfinder and it has nowhere near the interior room that the Versa has. Overall a nice little car, I would buy another!
Plagued With Problems
I bought my 2009 Nissan Versa SL about 6 months ago. About a month after purchase, the AC starting making loud rattling noises. Brought it to the dealership to be fixed with no success. Had to argue with the dealer just to get them to even look at the car again, and 2 months later and after 2 more drop-offs that problem appears to be solved by replacing the entire AC system. A few weeks after this incident, the car starts having trouble turning over. The dealer replaces the Fuel Pump Regulator, which solves the problem for about 6 weeks. Today, the car is back in the shop with the same issue again. Already considering getting rid of it, despite the loss I would take. NOT RECOMMENDED.
Versa is Slept On
One of the most comfortable compacts I have ridden in. Great cargo room, legroom, and headroom for its class, was able to move in for college with all of my belongings fit in it no problem, just wish the seats would fold flat. My mother even thinks it is very comfortable compared to a mid size sedan. Acceleration is okay for what it is, sometimes difficult to accelerate up steep freeway ramps to get up to speed unless you have put in some performance modifications. Pretty good fuel economy. The value of the car isn't much because there aren't many bells and whistles that come with it (Bluetooth, aux, navigation, etc.), but you can get sport kit trim, aux, sunroof, and alloy rims on higher trim levels. Power steering is highly responsive, takes a bit getting used to. Haven't had many major problems, but there was a metal shard that was found in my oil pan that must have come from the engine, it still runs smoothly though. My suspension has been creaky as well, started having problems at 127k, but that's something to expect from a 10 year old car being driven around frequently with bumpy roads. Very cheap to maintain and repair, unless you go to the dealership. AC and heater run well, but can sometimes be smelly, need to clean it out sometime. The cabin gets a bit too warm from the heater at times, so I have to ventilate with the windows, I would recommend getting wind deflectors for this purpose. Overall, it is a comfortable compact with good fuel economy and won't give you many problems, especially manual or 4 speed automatic, I have heard horror stories about CVTs.
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An Excellent Car for the Price
For its price, this car is undeniably a great deal. The hatchback is sporty in appearance, the interior is incredibly spacious for its overall size and the interior is very well designed. While the car is considered a compact by class, it doesn't feel so while driving as its 1.8 L engine has plenty of power for the car, and the transmission has almost seamless smooth transitions. Overall, this car is perfect for people who want a sporty commute to work and great fuel efficiency.
First Nissan
I always avoided considering Nissans going back to the Datsun days (B210s). When I checked out the Fit, Yaris, and Accent in looking for a simple good mileage car, I almost ignored the Versa, being biased against Nissan. I did my homework on all the above cars and kept on coming back to the Versa as the best overall value. When the dealer finally had a 2009 s 6 spd available, I made the jump and after the first 1500 miles, am very glad I did. So far it's a great little car that's fun to drive. I tend to keep cars (last car 1995 Saab 9000 with 305,000 miles) and felt the engine would hold up better than the Fit or Yaris over 100,000 miles.
Nice Car
I purchase this car new in Oct of '08 as a '09 model. A week after I bought the car, the car started to have a long crank. There were times that it would not start on the first try. I took it to the dealer and they replaced the 'Fuel Pressure Regulator'. Now the car has 22500 miles. I do drive far for work. So far everything has been alright. I am averaging 31MPG on this car. It starting to have the 'long crank problem' again for the third time. I will be taking my car in for the third time for the same issue. This is getting annoying. Good car but i would not buy another Versa.
logical and economic
This car is very good with fuel mileage.It handles great on smooth and somewhat bumpy roads.Be carefull when parellel parkparking.The hubcaps will get scraped up if you come too close to high curbs.The sound system sounds great.The brakes are very good.good.This car is good for city and highway driving.
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first_time_user
I just replaced my 2001 Ford Explorer Sports Trac with 225k miles, its the best move I have ever made. Presently, I'm going to average a little over 30 miles to the gallon...considering the winter conditions of WI and commuting. Big relief at the wallet! Reliability time will tell; will post more...
Second Versa and love it...
Had a 2007 Versa and loved it, so got a 2009... great commuter car. Just want a reliable comfortable car with good MPG and got it. So much room inside, it is really unbelievable - 350 lb. passenger in back seat was very comfortable. Two-hour drive on hills, no problem... performance was great. Plenty cargo room since interior so spacious.
Great Car
We got the S Model with the power pack option, including cruise control, power windows, power locks, keyless remote entry. This is a really well-designed car. The interior is extraordinarily roomy and comfortable and looks and feels great; there is lots of cargo capacity; the sound system is great; the mileage is good; the air conditioning seems very efficient and has lots of different adjustment options; the ride is decent for a smallish car; the exterior (I got the sapphire blue) is snappy; lots of safety features. I actually look forward to driving to and from work.
LOVE my Versa, don't miss my Clunker!
Ok, so I've only had it a week, but it's been a great week. I drove everything before deciding on the Versa - it was the best equipped for the $, and has a solid feel, not like that "tin can little car" feel you'd expect. If you're buying, spring for the SL with CVT - great mpg, and surprising zip factor. Got 29mpg on first tank. Also surprising - the roominess in the cabin. No cramped legs, no bumped heads. LOTS of storage. Parking is a breeze. Great price, great incentives, great warranty. I drive a LOT, and am very happy and expecting only to grow happier with my choice. Getting lots of compliments too...from "cool car!" to "adorable!" to "wow!" ... this is my second Nissan, won't be last!
Good car for this price
I have this car about a couple of weeks and I just love this car. I looked at Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris. I see these cars on Route 1 and they look too small for that kind of Highway. I wanted 1.8 L not 1.5 like Fit and Yaris. Interior is roomy and it feels like a big car. It's zippy and I am very comfortable on highways.
Rear window defect
Two days ago the rear window of my Versa shattered spontaneously. I had just started the vehicle but was not yet in gear. There was no evidence of a rock or bird strike. Nissan does not warranty broken windows and my insurance has a $500 deductible so I had to pay $386 for replacement.
Surprising
I have been looking at autos of this style for the past month. I've tested the Toyota Yaris, Chevy Aveo, Honda Fit, Kia Rio5, and the Hundai Elantra Touring. Some of them were a bit sportier in style and performance but mostly less than the Nissan. Roominess was and is a hands down to the Nissan. I absolutely despised the instrument layout in the Toyota I guess that I don't like having to look over for the speedo etc.. Price was also a factor with the Nissan hitting the right tone. For those who haven't driven the Chevy Aveo be cautioned, if you have to make a left turn and even see oncoming traffic you will be better off to get out and push than to use the accelerator. So far very Happy!
I love my Versa
I bought my Versa at the end of September, 2008. I love everything about it. I've had only one problem (a faulty gas cap causing the check engine light to come on) and I have only two things I could complain about. 1) I would like a lock that can be opened with the key on the hatch door, and 2) the heater/defroster seems to take longer to warm up than any other car I've owned. Item 1 could probably be solved by having power locks, but I didn't want them so I have to unlock the driver's door to unlock the hatch. I also disagree with reviews complaining of a lack of performance. I can't keep this car at the speed limit! I have a manual transmission, so that may the difference. Buy one these!
Cash for Clunkers Buy
I got the Versa Sedan 1.6 with 5 speed manual transmission and A/C with ABS through the "Cash for Clunkers" program. I wanted the least expensive car out there that had A/C and that an adult could fit into. I've owned Nissan's before and I know they make a better product. This car is made for practical adults. It has plenty of safety features and a lot of interior room. The truck is very roomy for vacation travel. For the kid in me, I do enjoy winding it up and going through the gears. It isn't a speed demon but I can get through traffic with ease if I'm running late.
Great MPG, Quiet, Comfortable, Quality
Brand new 2009 Nissan Versa 1.6L / 5spd Sedan. Miles per gallons is underrated. With a combination of freeway and city street driving we are getting over 40 miles per gallon as an average. 400+miles with only 10 gallons of gas! So on the highway the mileage is probably well over 40mpg. This 1.6L sips gas even with the A/C on. Not only that but this 1.6L engine accelerates pretty well for it's size. Is surprisingly roomy for it's size as well. Fits 4 adults comfortably. Handles well, very much like a VW Golf or similar. Quiet engine and quiet ride.
Basic
I've had this car for about six months and I'm already tired of it. I previously owned an 06 Hyundai Sonata that I adored until I totaled it. The Versa gets great gas mileage, and I trust the Nissan name. However, it has depreciated $6000 already! I expected a small, foreign-made car to retain its value today but I was sadly mistaken! I have cruise control and ABS options. I'm mostly disappointed at the high price I'll be paying off for several years for a tiny, basic car. It is absolutely frightening to drive this car in the snow/ice or even high-wind (I was actually blown off the road once). There is poor get-up (when compared to my Sonata) and poor storage up front (lacks a console).
Versatile Versa
Traded in my old 1995 Nissan 4X4 king cab for the 2009 Versa 1.6 L sedan with ABS and AC (cash for clunkers) The Versa is very comfortable, quiet, and very peppy on the road. Happy to have the AC and the ABS, no radio though. I got 400 miles on the 13.2 gallon fuel tank, not too shabby and that is with the AC on and in a lot of stop and go traffic. Looked at the Yaris but it was more expensive and not as comfortable or quiet and considerably less roomy. The Honda Fit was also less comfortable and less roomy plus more expensive. The Versa may not be flashy looking but it covers all the bases and then some.
Fun Car
I have only owned this car for 2 months but I am extremely happy with it. I am 6' 4" and fit in it just fine. This site really helped in my decision to purchase it. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a good fun car at a fair price.
It is what it is...
Driving a 2000 Sable last summer when gasoline hit $4/gallon made me swear to replace it with a fuel-efficient car when it died. Now I am two weeks into owning this car and can report that the MPG is wondrous, I drove nearly 400 miles on the first tank of gas. The 5- speed stick makes for a ton of fun although the car gets noticeably buzzy above 70 mph and 5th doesn't feel like it should be the last upshift. This is not a problem around town where the car zips around like Yorkshire terrier hunting for mice, but I can't say I'm looking forward to interstate driving at high speed with this car. But what most owners say is true: This car feels a lot larger than it is.
great car for the money
traded a 2002 elantra with 160k and wanted another one but the hyundia dealer wasn't moving on the price. Stumbled on to the Versa and got a great deal. Excellent on gas and comfortable too.
underated
I bought my versa for the most part for the price and also the room. I am 6'3" tall, and it is difficult to find a comfortable small car. The Versa fits the bill. We liked the Versa so much that three months later we purchased another, this time the HB. Love them both. If you have the extra money- spring for the power option, my 1.6 has only A/C and it is very inconvenient to have no power locks or windows, although a small price to pay, for such a solid built, fuel efficient, comfortable car at that price.
New Versa Yesterday
I bought my Versa yesterday, so cannot speak on its reliability and build yet. I drove both the S and SL versa hatch. The S was a smooth, quiet ride with lots of room, power and comfort. No trouble getting up hills and good acceleration. The SL improved with the CVT and extra options, but the S would have done the job fine.
Awesome ride !
My Ford Taurus died on me and I was shopping around for a midsized sedan with good gas mileage. I researched and test drove a Versa, Corolla, Elantra, and Spectra. Although I could get in an Elantra and Spectra for a bit cheaper, I went with the Versa because we liked it so much after test drive. Much better leg room in the rear (compared to the other cars) and a very comfy ride. The Versa handles very well, is fun to drive, and looks quite sporty (mine is red). We really like the extra features of the SL model (since we have 2 small boys). So far, I've gotten excellent MPG. I also qualified for a "green" loan from my Credit Union, due to the combined MPG of the Versa being over 29 MPG.
Great Little Car!
The Versa has better acceleration than I anticipated, and does great both in traffic and on the highway. The engine is extremely quiet and does sound labored at all. Nissan did a great job ensuring the driver has great vision and awareness of surroundings. If you live in the city and have to parallel park, you are going to be in heaven with this car. I find this car to be quite comfortable to drive, much more so than the FIT. The standard sound system provides a clean, crisp, full sound that I am very happy with.
5 stars
This is a dream car,The price is extremely low for a great performing automobile. My only complaint is lack of radio.I think this is a game to increase price.I ordered a Sony CD radio for a total price 151.24. Will pay 40-50 installation. Versa comes prewired except a radio. Ebay tell me of 200.00 saving over Nissan's radios.
this car is 5 stars
For the price this car won't be equaled, any time soon. I have tested mileage, and got 32.5 city, 33.5 with both. I am sure of even higher mileage on highway. Any one looking for great quality comfort ride won't be disappointed! The sedan I now drive is the overall best car I have ever owned. I am 75, and have seen my share of cars. Try and buy.
Great value economy car
I have the 2009 1.8S hatchback model with a 4sp auto trans, and no pwr door locks and pwr windows. Overall, it's a good daily commuter car with a roomy and elegant interior for its class. I think this car delivers more value than its competitors the Honda Fit, Suzuki SX4, Hyundai Accent, and Scion xD. I get around 20 mpg in town so far. But at 500 miles, I did have a faulty evap valve on the catalytic converter replaced by the dealer under warranty. It's a world car - aka Tiida in Europe/Japan. The US Versa is put together in Mexico with the engine and transmission assembled in Japan. I'm pleased with the car. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a stylish and frugal daily commuter.
Great car for tall men
I am 6'3" tall. I was looking for a small, fuel efficient, reliable car that was as comfortable as possible. I tried Honda's, Toyota's, Hyundai's, Fords, Chevey's, Susuki's and Nissan's. Of all, the Nissan Versa was by far the most comfortable-lots of legroom, headroom, backseat room, a quiet interior and comfortable front and back seats. It also sits higher off the ground so when you get out of the car you don't have to hold onto the edges of the door frame to pull yourself up and out of the car - something that gets real old after a few days. And Consumer Reports gave most of the car's components a "Well Above Average" rating for durability. Plus the most inexpensive and great mileage!
Great Point A to B car
Did tons of research on compacts out today. All have pro's and con's. Most important in the end was safety ratings then price. The Versa fit my bill the best and is a really nice ride for the money. Unfortunately the car only came with automatic tranny, AC and floormats as options, but dealer hooked me up with splash guards. As for the lack of radio I just went on ebay and got a factory versa radio for 50 buck. Car then was complete and I was totally happy. Interior is VERY roomy and comfortable. Power from engine is zippy, but can be very buzzy when acelerating hard. Seen 28 to 40 mpgs so car is great fuel saver. Automatic tranny is not the smoothest I've driven.
I love my versa! makes me happy!
I test drove the honda fit and the scion xd, and I chose the versa mainly because of the roomy interior and the price. Definitely worth the upgrade to the SL, the S and base versions don't have as nice interior (armrest,upholstery, ipod). This car is perfect for my commute and it's fun to zip around the city in. It's comfortable to drive and isn't goofy looking like the scion or the fit. It gets good gas mileage, handles well, and drives fine on the freeway and in the city. I've read reviews where they say it's a snooze to drive, but I disagree. It's got the ipod jack and cruise control, and it feels like you are in a much larger car. My family and friends can all ride comfortably in it!
Still Happy
I purchased the Versa 14 months ago and am just now approaching 9000 miles on it and so far I have not had any issues with the vehicle. I am getting a very consistent 29-31 mpg commuting around town. Haven't taken it on any long trips as yet but would expect the mpg to be very good.
Niisan Versa
Ive owned this versa sedan Sport for about 7 months now, and its one of the best cars in every comparison from its class. I have test drove the other ones in its class and this is really the best. When I drive this car, I am 6.2ft and 260 pounds. This car dosent feel "cramped" when driving. The performace for this size car is excellent!! interior room is excellent!!! Overall this car is probally not gonna be traded in anytime soon! For any one who loves modifying, your gonna love it even more!! its even prewired for fog lights (SL and some S), and a rear spoiler!! come on, thats nice!! I was hesitent to buy a nissan, not knowing anything about them, but Im glad I did, and you would be too!!!
best buy in the market
This is an unbelievable value. quiet, smooth shifting, comfortable, economic and tight little car. I purchased it to keep the miles off my diesel truck, but my daughter liked it so much she kept it for her graduation gift. No problems, no repairs. I guess I will have to purchase another one for me.
Excellent MPG's and price
I grabbed this 1.6 because I needed a car and didn't want a used one. I have never gotten less then 34mpg mixed driving. It's way better then the EPA rated. The car costs very little, insurance is hardly nothing and it's so roomy.
Very Happy
Purchased new 6500 miles ago. Used mainly as a commuter and around town car. Not a single problem so far.
Good Noise Reduction
I bought it 4 months ago and i traveled out of state and found that it had good noise reduction. Inside is very quiet and when i opened the window in the highway, thats when i realized it is very quiet inside. I bought a standard no powerlock/window with auto trans and ac and found that it only gets 25-26 miles per gallon in it. Next time i get the more expensive one to get more mpg. I will get the cvt instead. don't get the basic if u want more mpg. Turning is good and brake is good too. the seat is high which is good because i realized it when i was at my friend car. PLus it is very roomy inside and i lov it.