What are the most common Nissan Murano problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,680+ owner reports, the 2012 Nissan Murano has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure and Shudder, Excessive Oil Consumption (VQ35DE Engine), Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneously Shattering / Exploding. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Nissan Murano reliable?
The 2012 Nissan Murano has 9 known issues documented across 2,680+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure and Shudder and Excessive Oil Consumption (VQ35DE Engine) and Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneously Shattering / Exploding and AWD Transfer Case Failure / Fluid Leak (2nd Gen). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Murano problems?
Repair costs for known Nissan Murano issues range from $200 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure and Shudder, typically costs $300-$5,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano CVT Transmission Failure and Shudder?
The 2009-2020 Murano equipped with the CVT (Jatco JF010E and later JF016E) is prone to premature failure. Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, and complete loss of drive. The 2009-2014 models with JF010E are particularly problematic. Nissan extended CVT warranties on some model… Repairs typically run $300-$5,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano Excessive Oil Consumption (VQ35DE Engine)?
The 2009-2014 Murano VQ35DE 3.5L V6 engine can consume excessive amounts of oil, sometimes 1 quart every 1,000-2,000 miles. The issue is caused by worn piston rings and valve stem seals. Nissan TSB NTB13-076 addresses the oil consumption test procedure. If the engine fails the co… Repairs typically run $200-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneously Shattering / Exploding?
Muranos equipped with the factory panoramic glass roof have a documented history of the glass spontaneously shattering or 'exploding' with a loud bang, often while driving or even while parked, with no external impact. NHTSA began receiving complaints as early as 2008, and the Mu… Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano AWD Transfer Case Failure / Fluid Leak (2nd Gen)?
Second-generation AWD Muranos have a known transfer case defect, referenced in Nissan service bulletin NTB17-003, where the transfer case leaks fluid and fails. The unit cannot be repaired and must be replaced, with dealer replacement commonly around $3,000-$3,500. Owners report… Repairs typically run $3,000-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano A/C Compressor Clutch Failure?
The Murano A/C compressor clutch is prone to failure, particularly on the first and second generation models. The clutch relay, clutch coil, or the compressor clutch bearing can fail, resulting in no A/C cooling. Symptoms often start with intermittent A/C operation — cooling work… Repairs typically run $250-$1,300. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano Power Steering Rack Seal Leak?
The second and third generation Murano develops power steering rack seal leaks, typically at the input shaft seal or the inner tie rod boots. The leak causes power steering fluid loss, leading to groaning noises when turning and eventual loss of power assist. The issue is progres… Repairs typically run $400-$1,800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano Timing Chain / Guide Rattle on Startup (2nd Gen)?
Second-generation Muranos commonly develop a ticking or rattling noise at startup, lasting more than a couple of seconds, caused by worn timing chain guides/tensioners that create slack in the chain. The condition is aggravated by extended oil-change intervals or low oil. If igno… Severity: medium.
What is the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano Transfer Case Seal Leak (AWD Models)?
AWD-equipped Muranos are prone to transfer case seal leaks, particularly at the output shaft seal and the seal between the transfer case and CVT. The leak allows transfer case fluid to escape, which can eventually cause the AWD coupling to overheat and fail if fluid level drops t… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2003-2020 Nissan Murano Premature Catalytic Converter Failure?
The Murano VQ35DE is prone to premature catalytic converter failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The Bank 1 (firewall side) converter typically fails first. Contributing factors include the engine's tendency toward oil consumption, which poisons the catalyst, and heat soa… Repairs typically run $500-$2,500. Severity: medium.
