Nissan GT-R (2009-2015): used buying guide

In early 2012 the GT-R’s power rose again to 545bhp, bringing 0-62mph under three seconds. The car gained an asymmetric suspension set-up providing a firmer spring rate on the left side to counter the combined weight of the driver and propshaft on the right. The Recaro edition with Recaro seats joined the line-up, too. Fuel economy improved by 0.5mpg to 24mpg. Incidentally, road tax is £515 across all models.

In the spirit of continuous betterment, subsequent years have brought further ride, handling and performance improvements to the GT-R, culminating in today’s £150,000, 592bhp GT-R Nismo – a cool £115,000 dearer than the starting price for a 2009 car, which is our pick for supercar value.

An expert’s view...

IAN LITCHFIELD, LITCHFIELD

“The GT-R’s engine is so strong we warrant it at 750bhp without any internal strengthening. Equally as strong are residual values, partly because Nissan keeps raising the new prices. The GT-R was £53,000; today, prices start at £80,000, and at heart it’s the same car. Each time Nissan launches a new one, it gives used ones an extra boost. You just can’t buy another supercar for the money that’s as usable or tunable. But they are expensive to run, so just as the performance isn’t for the fainthearted, neither are the bills.”

Buyer beware...

ENGINE

Chains can stretch, causing tensioner wear, and should be replaced at around 70,000 miles. It’s a £2k engine-out job. Noises from bell housing could be flywheel shaft bearings. Interrogate the ECU to check the number of launch control starts, plus additional historic data (see ‘Also worth knowing’).

SERVICE HISTORY

For pre-2012 cars, services are six months or 6000 miles; thereafter, 12 months or 9000 miles. Bills can vary hugely, so check if a big one is due.

TRANSMISSION, STEERING

Transmission is noisy, so don’t worry unduly. Gearbox selector problems aren’t unknown on 2008 Japan-spec cars. Transaxle needs a fluid change every 18 months or 18k miles. Steering lock unit was a recall on early cars.

CHASSIS

Older cars can suffer weeping dampers. Front lower arm bushes can crack on high-mileage cars but are simple to replace. Appetite for tyres and brakes is ferocious.

ELECTRICS

Early cars had stereo issues, plus recalls for failed instrument lighting.

BODYWORK

Paint chips easily, causing rust spots; neglect here could spell neglect elsewhere. Some early cars had bubbling paint under the door mirrors, fixed by Nissan. Check fit/alignment of the bonnet. The single-use pedestrianfriendly item can cost £10k to replace.

INTERIOR

Acres of plastic can deteriorate in direct sun (surfaces become sticky) and be easily scratched.

Also worth knowing...

Nissan’s High Performance Centres are equipped to maintain GT-Rs and can interrogate your car’s software. For around £55, they’ll download its performance history, so you’ll be privy to all of your car’s darkest secrets.