Nissan Murano problems

The Nissan Murano (Japanese: 日産・ムラーノ, Hepburn: Nissan Murāno) is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Nissan since May 2002 for the 2003 model year, and currently in its third generation.
As Nissan's first crossover SUV for the United States and Canada, the Murano was designed at Nissan America in La Jolla, California, and was based on the Nissan FF-L platform shared with the third generation Altima. The European version of the Murano began sales in 2004.
The Murano was Nissan's only crossover SUV in the United States until September 2007, when the Rogue went on sale. In Canada, the X-Trail had been on sale as Nissan's second car based SUV since 2004 as a model for 2005; it was replaced by the 2008 Rogue at the end of 2007. The Murano is sized between the Pathfinder and the now defunct Xterra (which was replaced by the Rogue as a compact SUV). A convertible variant, the Murano CrossCabriolet, was available for the second-generation model for the model years of 2011 to 2014.
The nameplate Murano derives from the Italian islands of Murano and the namesake Murano art glass for which the islands are widely known.
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Nissan Murano model years
Common Nissan Murano problems
The Nissan Murano, a midsize SUV produced by Nissan, has been praised for its attractive design and impressive lighting elements. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of issues. Here are three of the most common problems reported by Nissan Murano owners:
- Failing engine mounts causing thumping in the floor: More than 180 Nissan Murano owners have reported this issue, which typically arises around 96,000 miles. The sound comes from the engine moving too much, indicating that the engine mounts have failed and need to be replaced.
- Damaged seat adjuster assembly causing noise/rocking movement: Over 140 Nissan Murano owners have reported this problem, which generally appears after 84,000 miles. The damaged seat adjuster assembly can cause the seat to rock back and forth, squeak, or stop adjusting forward, backward, up, or down.
- Air intake tube on the air cleaner box becoming loose: Nearly 40 Nissan Murano owners have reported this issue, which typically arises around 84,000 miles. This problem is related to a recall for 2003 to 2007 models of the Murano, where the air cleaner box or tube can come loose. If your Murano falls within this model year range and has this issue, the repair should be covered by Nissan.
These issues can affect the reliability and overall satisfaction of Nissan Murano owners. It is essential to consider these common problems when considering purchasing a used Murano. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring a more reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
Is the Nissan Murano a reliable car?
The Nissan Murano has scored well on all major reliability ratings over the years. RepairPal gave it a 3.5 out of 5, ranking it 20th out of the 26 vehicles in its segment.
What is the major problem of Murano?
The biggest issue with Muranos is a faulty door handle. As such, it's a relatively easy and inexpensive repair. So if you want a good, reliable SUV crossover, the Nissan Murano is worthy of your consideration.
Why was Nissan Murano discontinued?
The nameplate has been discontinued due to sluggish sales, with the X-Trail taking its place.
Is Nissan Murano expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Nissan Murano is $507, compared to an average of $521 for compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Nissan Murano years
We have researched Nissan problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Nissan Murano cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Nissan Murano model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Nissan Murano model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Nissan Murano years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Nissan Murano car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Nissan Murano , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Seats problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Nissan Murano vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Murano model years
A total of 132 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Murano model years
There were a total of 31 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Murano model years
There were a total of 141 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Murano model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 5675 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Nissan Murano . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Nissan Murano vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Nissan Murano 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: JN8AZ08W87W
- Components: ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My timing chain/belt is shot, my car started slowing down and I pulled over on the side of the highway.
Nissan Murano 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: JN8AZ08T84W
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Driver seat front left side has a rocking motion to it. I’ve read a lot of others have found this issue was supposed to be fixed from 2003-2004 and the parts have been updated to address the issue. I am worried my seat movement will create an unsafe driving condition.
Nissan Murano 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5N1AZ2BS5LN
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Driver seat belt latch starting to stick and not latch properly
Nissan Murano 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5N1AZ2CS3LN
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: My sunroof exploded but I don't know why. There was no warning. Might have been a rock but I didn't see one. I had the sunroof closed but the fabric cover was open for light. I heard an explosive noise and then glass started raining in. I closed the fabric cover to keep the glass out of the passenger compartment. No real injuries other than a couple of glass shards being sharp. Mostly just got some skin irritation. Some areas on my car have scratched paint and plastic parts. I had my Nissan dealer look at it. They will clean up the glass and replace the sunroof for about $2000. I feel like it should be replaced for free as a warranty item. I also got an estimate from a collision shop for about $7500. There is scratched paint and plastic as well as the headliner certainly has glass in it. Their estimate was much more detailed. Filed an insurance claim today, so hope to have it all fixed up soon.
Nissan Murano 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: JN8AZ08W57W
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Nissan Murano. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal rumbling sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who observed excessive corrosion on the rear sub frame of the vehicle. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not safe to drive because the rear axle could become detached. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 142,000.
Nissan Murano 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 5N1AZ2MG8FN
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Car shut off while driving 60 miles per hour on the hwy. Battery light was on but I just had it checked and it was good. Seat belt light was also on but I had mine on and there were no other passengers. The collision light has repeatedly come on and off since I bought the vehicle new.
Nissan Murano 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: JN8AZ18W79W
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: After noticing a noise on the left rear of my car after hitting a pothole, I took my 2009 Nissan MURANO to my local mechanical garage. What was found was a rusted sub frame. Obviously this could have resulted in injuries
Nissan Murano 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 5N1AZ2CJ0MC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The component of the vehicle is the passenger headlight. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time.I was unable to see at night clearly with the use of only one headlight because the other headlight went out. At the time that the headlight went out I was on a 2 Lane Rd. with no street lights and it became very dark and difficult to see.The defect has been confirmed at a Nissan dealership on September 23. The dealership found separation of the assembly, causing the condensation in the passenger side headlight causing it not to work. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other entity, besides the certified Nissan dealership. The system warning message appeared only when the headlight went out.
Nissan Murano 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: 5N1AZ2MG4FN
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked and hesitated, after which the vehicle lost motive power. The driver was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to restart but was unable to shift into drive or reverse. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the CVT transmission fluid needed to be flushed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 204,000.
Nissan Murano 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- VIN: JN8AZ18W59W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the front passenger air bag failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
Nissan Murano 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: 5N1AZ2MG9HN
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Car power steering rack liking bad, car has 46k miles This car should be recalled, is got major issues with power steering rack, in which Nissan didn’t do it right do to parts shortage, this is dangerous for my kids this car can burn any second, if you telling me that car at 46 k has a major power steering leek I would never buy this car, we took our car into Nissan they do not want to fix this, they asking $2100 to fix for what Nissan did when they build a car, this has to be on recall list for all Nissan 2017, , local Nissan is ignoring this problem, we will sue , this is a dangerous problem to have on the car, it will catch a fire eventually, start resolving this to avoid law suits. Nissan is recalling more than 56,000 cars because of power-steering hoses that may leak fluid and potentially lead to fires. Nissan North America said the recall affects the 2013-2014 Murano vehicles. The problem stems from the power-steering hose clamp, which may not adequately secure the hose. That could allow the hose to detach and leak power-steering fluid, the company said. Power-steering fluid leaking onto a hot engine or exhaust pipes could cause a fire, Nissan said.
Nissan Murano 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: 5N1AZ2MG6GN
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: july 2024 traction warning kept appearing on a daily basis. I have pushed Traction off button which both remain on then when car is off (for about 15min or so) then both disappear. However soon afterwards if I keep driving it will appear again - My fear, twice the Traction warning appeared and without putting on Traction off my Vehicle stalled - it was in a frozen state - couldn't move steering wheel -then slowly began moving at 5mph until Traction off was pushed and slowly began running again - but my car does not drive past 65mph on freeway? These are normal streets I'm driving, no pot holes etc. Finally able to get appt with my local mechanic Klipper Automotive for August 30th.
Nissan Murano 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 5N1AZ2MG9HN
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: This car it was in the garage. I almost never use it only sometimes to go in the store and this cannot happen. The car who passed just 46,000. Steering Rack: Power steering rack and electronic power steering fluid - Power steering is very notchy. Upon inspection of vehicle found power steering rack leaking from the passenger side seal. Recommend replacing rack and bleeding power steering system. The steering wheel is attached to the steering rack by the steering shaft. When the steering wheel is turned, the steering rack interprets the directional input and pushes or pulls the front wheels in the desired direction. The steering rack is secured to the chassis.
Nissan Murano 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: JN8AZ1FY2BW
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hi i see this vehicle had a recall campaign previously under notice P1261/NTB12-003/NTB14-076. This campaign includes the replacement of the links and other items under this campaign. This vehicle is a convertible and the top frame is once again damaged due to the same recall for links. I recently took the vehicle to Lorenzo Nissan as the top is not working. They advised the frame links are bound, and the frame needs to be replaced. As this was covered under previous recall, the recall is obviously not adequate.
Nissan Murano 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: JN8AZ1MU3AW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The transmission is failing and I recently found out there had been a recall on the CVT transmission and I would like to get it fixed by the company.
Latest 5 recalls Nissan Murano
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 48 recalls for different components of the Nissan Murano.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Nissan Murano 2020
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-27
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:SPINDLE
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles. The front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.
- Consequence: The steering knuckle or rear axle could deform upon impact, such as from hitting a curb, resulting in a loss of steering control, or possible wheel separation. Both of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front steering knuckle and rear axle housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 26, 2021. Nissan owners may contact customer service at 1-800-867-7669. INFINITI owners may contact customer service at 1-800-662-6200.
- Model: Nissan Murano 2020
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-11
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano vehicles. The left and/or right-hand transverse link may not have been manufactured correctly, which could result in it separating from the ball joint.
- Consequence: Ball joint separation can cause a loss of vehicle control, and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the transverse link's lot codes, and if necessary, replace them and perform a vehicle alignment, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 6, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's number for this recall is PC797.
- Model: Nissan Murano 2017
- Report Received Date: 2019-11-08
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS actuator, free of charge. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available, currently expected to be during summer 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: If the ABS warning light remains illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.
- Model: Nissan Murano 2015
- Report Received Date: 2019-11-08
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS actuator, free of charge. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available, currently expected to be during summer 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: If the ABS warning light remains illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.
- Model: Nissan Murano 2016
- Report Received Date: 2019-11-08
- Manufacturer: Nissan North America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
- Consequence: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS actuator, free of charge. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available, currently expected to be during summer 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: If the ABS warning light remains illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.
Latest negative Nissan Murano car reviews
Latest positive Nissan Murano car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I previously owned a 2011 Murano and traded it in for a Maxima 2 years ago. Although I loved my Maxima, I missed the comfort and smooth ride of an SUV. Recently, I purchased a 2017 Murano and I absolutely love it. The extra space, electronics, and technical gadgets are great. The Murano is beautifully designed and rides very nicely. It has Bluetooth, a rearview camera, comfortable seating, and 18-inch tires for a smooth ride. The radio sounds great, the car is easy to handle, and the back seats are roomy too. If you're looking for an SUV, I strongly suggest trying the Murano. I don't think I'll ever want to drive anything else!
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Vehicle year: 2022
Good ride and handling. Plenty of power from the six-cylinder. The interior is first class. I would definitely buy it again.
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Vehicle year: 2011
My 2011 gas guzzler with a great power v6 just died at 216,000 miles. However, I got my money's worth out of it. The SUV is spacious and cool looking with off-road capabilities thanks to 7 inches of clearance. The car has great power and smooth acceleration thanks to the CVT. I have had no major problems in 10 years, and it is easy to work on. Although tires for SUVs are expensive, I have changed all 4 wheel bearings along the way, but it's an easy job. The Y pipe rotted, but that was also an easy fix. The suspension is floaty nice, real nice. The only downside is that the front view is obscured a little.
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Vehicle year: 2011
They installed a new engine three years ago as part of a warranty recall, according to Nissan.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I love my Murano, but I'm feeling a bit down because the timing chain needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, the shop I got a quote from is charging a hefty $2,100, which is frustrating since it happened just 900 miles after the warranty expired. While Nissan dealerships can be expensive, I'm still grateful for my great car.
Ola Harber 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2013
This car has great handling and plenty of engine power to get up steep hills without breaking a sweat! However, there are a few issues with the stereo unit, such as the volume button turning up the volume when trying to turn it down and the USB hookup being fussy with the flash drive. Additionally, the dealer says aftermarket stereos won't work with this car, which is a shame. Despite these issues, this car has many great features, such as dual-zone air, power driver/passenger seats, dual moonroof, and backup monitor. It's a nice overall car with cloth seats, but expect to pay for some pricey repairs without a warranty. The car has a sporty look, but it doesn't accelerate as well as it looks on the highway. It's a good fit for average to tall people who are either single or a small family. The defroster could be improved, as it doesn't allow air to recirculate inside while defrosting the windshield, which can let in outside exhaust and other smells. The rear air ducts hardly work, and there are no cupholders in the doors, which is a shame. Overall, this is a great car with many features still offered for the money.
Shawn Bergnaum 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2005
I regret purchasing this vehicle as it has required numerous repairs. Based on my personal experience, I cannot recommend Nissan to my friends and family due to the significant issues I have encountered.
Johnpaul Kemmer 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2017
I have experienced transmission problems with my 2017.5 Nissan Murano, specifically delays and heaviness when shifting from reverse to drive, starting at around 3,000 miles. Despite my attempts to resolve the issue with Nissan, I have not had much success. It is important to be cautious of the transmission in these cars, especially considering the high cost of over $42,000 that I paid for mine.
Jessy Marks 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2004
This car has quit on me 7 times. Every time it quit, I would take it to the shop and spend $100-$800 to get it 'fixed', only to have it quit again a couple of days to a week later. The worst part, though, is what this car did when it would quit. It would be going down the road, and then all of a sudden, my power steering and brakes would go out! So, here I am driving down the road, and I can't steer or press the brakes! It has done this 7 times! Now, they say it will take $1500 to fix it. This is a terrible car that will cause wrecks. Mine only had 160,000 miles on it. Please do not buy this car! It is very dangerous!
Amani Reynolds 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2005
The vehicle has some safety issues that are unfortunately well known, such as the electric door locks not working and the sun visors not staying up. Additionally, the paint quality is not great and some plastic shields have fallen off. However, we have not experienced any issues with the drive train so far. It's important to note these issues, but overall the vehicle has been reliable.