2013 Nissan Murano Problems: 9 Known Issues

On the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano VQ35DE, 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. A Nissan dealer can perform an oil consumption test; if the engine fails it while under warranty, Nissan may authorize repairs.

On the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, 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 ignored, a stretched chain or failed guide can cause timing-related running problems and potential valve damage.

On the 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, second-generation AWD Muranos have a known transfer case defect, addressed in Nissan service bulletin NTB11-017c, where the transfer case leaks fluid and fails. The bulletin calls for replacing the transfer assembly on vehicles built from March 1, 2009 through July 9, 2010 (VIN range listed in the bulletin) and resealing it on others; owners report dealer replacement quotes commonly around $3,000-$3,500. Owners report that an unaddressed failing transfer case can produce whining/clunking noises and, in severe cases, lock up the driveline at highway speeds.

On the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano, 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 too low. The leak is often slow enough to go unnoticed until the AWD system malfunctions or a burning smell is detected.

On the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano, the 2009-2020 Murano equipped with the CVT (Jatco JF010E and later JF017E) 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 years but many owners face failures outside coverage.

On the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano, 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 Murano was among the most-cited models in a certified class-action lawsuit (Johnson et al. v. Nissan North America) covering 2009-2020 model years. The alleged cause is a tight factory seal plus tempered/ceramic-painted glass that builds stress until ordinary driving conditions trigger fracture.

On the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano, 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 works sometimes but not others — before progressing to complete failure. A seized compressor clutch bearing will produce a constant squealing noise with the A/C off.

On the 2009-2020 Nissan Murano, 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 progressive — starting as a minor seep and worsening over time. 2015+ models use an electro-hydraulic system (electric pump, hydraulic rack), so they can still leak fluid, but earlier belt-driven hydraulic systems are more commonly reported.

On the 2003-2020 Nissan Murano VQ35DE, 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 soak from the converter's close proximity to the engine. Failed converters trigger emission codes and can cause reduced power and failed emissions tests.