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Nissan2002–2015 Critical issues documented

Nissan Murano: common faults & what to check

Thinking about buying a used Nissan Murano (2002–2015) in New Zealand? We've documented 21 known faults for this model spanning transmission, cooling, suspension, and engine. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Every one is listed below with its symptoms and repair cost, and each has its own page with where to look and what to ask the seller. Free, no account needed.

Check this exact Nissan Murano

  • Odometer history
  • Money owing
  • Reported stolen
  • Ownership history
  • Official NZ vehicle register data
  • NZ owned and operated

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No NZ plate yet, or buying in Australia? Pick the generation and engine and start a free check below. New to KickTyres? How the check works →

21

Documented faults

Critical

Most serious

$550–$2,200

Typical repair

8

Systems covered

Which Nissan Murano are you looking at?

3 generation variants documented. Pick the shape you recognise: the faults, the servicing and the timeline below all narrow to it. Free, no account needed.

Now narrow it to the engine

A 1.8 and a 2.4 of the same car do not fail the same way, so the faults below narrow to the engine as well as the year. Free, no account needed.

Which engine is in it? These cover every year of this model.

3.5L petrol (VQ35-DE)· 3.5 litre petrol

Start your free check on this Nissan Murano

No plate needed. You get the risk score, the buyer's checklist and the guided inspection for the exact car you picked above — not the whole nameplate.

Nissan Murano

Free. The paid plate check is separate, and stays optional.

Can't confirm for this car

Nissan Murano

Nothing has been narrowed yet, so nothing below is a claim about a particular car. Pick a year and an engine to see which faults apply.

Tell us the engine, or check the engine code on the car, before relying on this.

matched on no vehicle context

What to look out for

The checks worth doing on a Nissan Murano before you hand over any money. Every documented fault is listed below, each with its own page.

  • Serious issue

    Drive from cold and hot, including a hill or firm acceleration, feeling for shudder, slip and any overheat warning.

    See why

    JATCO CVT failure (Z50 & Z51)

    Both the Z50 and Z51 Murano drive the VQ35DE V6 through a JATCO CVT, and it is the model's biggest liability. The heavy SUV and torquey V6 push the belt and pulleys hard; owners report shudder, whine, overheating and outright failure, and Nissan extended CVT warranties in some markets via a class-action settlement. A replacement is a very large bill. Fluid that was actually changed every 40,000-60,000 km (not left 'for life') is the single best sign of survival.

    What you would notice

    • Shudder when accelerating gently
    • Whine or drone rising with speed
    • Hesitation / delayed take-up
    • CVT overheating warning on hills or towing
    • Jerk between gears or loss of drive

    Typically $4,000–$8,000 to put right.

  • Serious issue

    Healthy fluid is green or light pink and odourless.

    See why

    CVT Radial Needle Bearing Failure Causing Catastrophic Transmission Destruction

    The RE0F09A (JF010E) Jatco CVT used in the Z50 Murano was the first large SUV application of a CVT and its oil pump and cooling capacity were insufficient for sustained V6 torque loads. Internal radial needle bearings overheat and score under stress, generating metallic debris that circulates through the valve body and destroys the transmission internally. Nissan acknowledged the issue through multiple warranty extensions (ultimately to 10 years or 120,000 miles in the US) and a class-action settlement but never issued a formal safety recall. Full CVT replacement is typically the only viable repair once internal contamination has occurred.

    What you would notice

    • Transmission jerks, shudders, or slips during light acceleration from a standstill
    • Whining or grinding noise from the transmission that rises and falls with vehicle speed
    • Sudden engagement of limp mode with the transmission locked in a single gear ratio
    • CVT fluid that is dark brown or black with a burnt odour and metallic glitter visible on the dipstick

    Typically $5,500–$13,000 to put right.

  • Serious issue

    Inspect the coolant overflow tank for oily sheen or brown emulsification.

    See why

    Radiator Internal Partition Failure — CVT Fluid Contamination

    The Murano radiator incorporates a transmission fluid cooler section separated from the coolant circuit by an internal plastic divider bonded to aluminium end tanks. Thermal cycling causes the plastic to crack or the bond to fail, allowing engine coolant and CVT fluid to cross-contaminate. Coolant entering the CVT circuit causes internal seals to swell and disintegrate and the push-belt to lose clamping pressure. The CVT is destroyed within a short period of driving in this condition. CVT fluid entering the coolant circuit foams the cooling system and can cause overheating. The failure is insidious because external fluid levels may appear normal until catastrophic damage has occurred.

    What you would notice

    • CVT fluid appearing pink, milky, or foamy on the dipstick or check-plug
    • Coolant overflow reservoir showing oily film or discolouration
    • CVT judder or loss of drive shortly after apparent normal operation
    • Overheating warning with no obvious external coolant leak

    Typically $4,500–$9,000 to put right.

  • Serious issue

    Inspect the boot for splits or grease contamination on the arm.

    See why

    Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Wear

    The front suspension uses a double-wishbone-derived layout with a compression-loaded ball joint pressed into the lower control arm. The ball joint stud seats in a tapered bore in the steering knuckle and carries the full vertical and lateral cornering loads of the front axle. As the joint's polymer bearing and grease seal deteriorate — accelerated by road contamination and the absence of a grease nipple on many units — the stud develops radial and axial play, which manifests as clunking and eventually causes wandering steering geometry. A failed ball joint can separate under load, resulting in immediate loss of steering and wheel collapse.

    What you would notice

    • Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension when driving over speed humps or dips
    • Steering wander and vague on-centre feel on the motorway
    • Uneven front tyre wear indicating changed camber or toe geometry

    Typically $280–$750 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Inspect CVT fluid — should be clear reddish, never dark brown or burnt smelling.

    See why

    CVT RE0F10D Belt Wear and Shudder

    The Z52 Murano uses the updated Jatco RE0F10D CVT which, while improved over the Z51 unit, still exhibits belt wear and shudder on higher-mileage examples. Symptoms typically develop from around 100,000 km, particularly in vehicles without regular CVT fluid changes. The variator steel belt can develop micro-slip against pulley surfaces causing vibration through the drivetrain under moderate to heavy throttle application. Early fluid changes greatly extend service life but do not fully eliminate the underlying wear pattern.

    What you would notice

    • Vibration or shudder during acceleration from low speeds
    • Subtle surging at steady highway speeds
    • Hesitation or delay when pulling away from standstill
    • Slight RPM flare under moderate load
    • Transmission warning light appearing on dash

    Typically $4,000–$8,500 to put right.

  • Costly issue

    Clean oil appears amber and translucent; sludge appears as a thick, dark, tar-like deposit.

    See why

    VQ35DE Engine Oil Sludge from Extended Service Intervals

    The VQ35DE 3.5-litre V6 is susceptible to accelerated oil sludge formation when oil change intervals are extended beyond manufacturer recommendations or when the incorrect viscosity is used. Sludge accumulates in the oil galleries, VVT solenoid passages, and around the oil control rings, progressively restricting hydraulic pressure to the variable valve timing phasers and upper valvetrain. Blocked VVT oil passages trigger camshaft timing fault codes (P0011, P0021, P0024) and eventual camshaft phaser seizure. Severely sludged engines can suffer main bearing starvation and rod bearing failure. The oil gallery gaskets behind the rear timing cover are a known weak point that can exacerbate low-pressure conditions.

    What you would notice

    • Check engine light with camshaft timing codes P0011, P0021, or P0024 stored
    • Rattling or ticking from the valve covers on cold start that takes longer than 10 seconds to clear
    • Thick, dark sludge visible inside the oil filler cap or on the dipstick
    • Noticeable loss of power or rough idle due to incorrect valve timing from blocked phaser passages

    Typically $900–$6,500 to put right.

See all 21 documented issuesEverything researched for the Nissan Murano, including 4 rated critical.
Depends on which engine this Nissan Murano has — 21Each of these is documented for one particular engine. Pick the year and engine above to see which of them apply.
Engine, transmission & cooling8

01CVT Radial Needle Bearing Failure Causing Catastrophic Transmission Destruction

Healthy fluid is green or light pink and odourless.petrol2003–2008TransmissionRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

02Radiator Internal Partition Failure — CVT Fluid Contamination

Inspect the coolant overflow tank for oily sheen or brown emulsification.petrol2002–2014CoolingRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

03JATCO CVT failure (Z50 & Z51)

Drive from cold and hot, including a hill or firm acceleration, feeling for shudder, slip and any overheat warning.petrol2003–2015TransmissionRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

04CVT RE0F10D Belt Wear and Shudder

Inspect CVT fluid — should be clear reddish, never dark brown or burnt smelling.petrol2015 onwardTransmissionRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

05VQ35DE Engine Oil Sludge from Extended Service Intervals

Clean oil appears amber and translucent; sludge appears as a thick, dark, tar-like deposit.petrol2003–2014EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

06VQ35DE Excessive Oil Consumption — Valve Stem Seals and Piston Rings

Check the oil dipstick against the last service record mileage to see if level is within normal range.petrol2008–2015EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

07VQ35DE Timing Chain Tensioner Rattle and Slack

With the engine cold, listen for a metallic rattle immediately at startup that fades within 3-5 seconds.petrol2002–2014EngineRead the full fault: symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller

08VQ35DE Valve Cover Gasket Oil Leak

Check the underside of the intake plenum for oil staining.petrol2003–2014Engine
Very commonEngine $380–$950 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The rubber valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube seals on the VQ35DE degrade with age and heat cycling, allowing oil to seep from both cylinder head covers. The rear valve cover is particularly problematic because it sits beneath the intake plenum, making access extremely difficult and labour time substantially higher than for the front cover. When the spark plug tube seals fail, oil migrates into the spark plug recesses, saturating the ignition coils and causing cylinder-specific misfires. Both covers and the intake plenum gasket are typically replaced together as a set to avoid repeat disassembly. Oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold creates a persistent burning smell.

Symptoms to notice

  • Persistent burning oil smell from the engine bay, particularly after the engine reaches operating temperature
  • Oil residue and grime visible along the perimeter of one or both valve covers
  • Cylinder-specific misfire codes (P0301 to P0306) caused by oil contamination in the spark plug tube wells saturating ignition coils
  • Oil level dropping between services without visible external drips beneath the vehicle

What to check

Check the underside of the intake plenum for oil staining. Start the engine and after a few minutes of running, check for a burning oil smell, indicating oil is dripping onto the hot exhaust manifold underneath. If a workshop inspection is possible: Remove each ignition coil and inspect the spark plug tube wells for pooled oil, which appears as a brown or black oily residue at the base of the tube. With the engine cool, remove the engine cover and visually inspect both valve covers for oil residue, dark staining, or wet seepage along the cover perimeter.

Where to look: Top of both cylinder heads; front cover is accessible from above, rear cover sits beneath the intake plenum

Parts involved: Rocker / valve cover.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the vehicle ever had the valve cover gaskets replaced?”
  • “Is there any burning smell from the engine bay when driving?”
  • “Have there been any misfire codes or ignition coil replacements?”
  • “How frequently has the engine oil level needed topping up between services?”
Electrical6

01EPS Rack Sensor Failure Causing Steering Warning

Check the EPS wiring harness and connectors at the rack for corrosion or chafing.2015 onwardElectrical
OccasionalElectrical $1,200–$4,800 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z52 Murano's electric power steering system incorporates a torque and angle sensor assembly integrated into the steering rack. Failure of this sensor triggers an EPS warning light and causes the power steering to default to a reduced-assist or no-assist mode, making the steering significantly heavier than normal. The fault is commonly caused by moisture ingress causing sensor corrosion, wiring connector degradation, or internal sensor element failure. In many cases the rack assembly requires complete replacement as the sensor is not sold separately.

Symptoms to notice

  • EPS or steering system warning light illuminated on dashboard
  • Steering suddenly becoming noticeably heavier than normal
  • Inconsistent power steering assistance at low speeds
  • Warning light cycling on and off intermittently
  • Variation in steering effort from one drive to the next

What to check

  1. Check the EPS wiring harness and connectors at the rack for corrosion or chafing.
  2. Test steering assistance at low speed manoeuvres — assistance should be smooth and consistent.
  3. Confirm warning light status during an extended test drive.
  4. If a workshop inspection is possible: Scan for active and stored EPS fault codes such as C1130, C1142, or U1000 series with a diagnostic tool capable of reading body and chassis modules.

Where to look: Electric power steering rack mounted on front subframe, torque sensor at column base

Parts involved: Steering rack, Body corrosion.

Ask the seller

  • “Has an EPS or steering warning light ever appeared on the dashboard?”
  • “Has the power steering felt heavy or inconsistent at any point?”
  • “Has any steering, column, or rack work been performed?”
  • “Are there any stored fault codes relating to the steering system?”

02AWD Transfer Case Front Coupling Actuator Failure

Scan the AWD control module for stored fault codes — C1130, C1156, and related AWD system codes indicate actuator or coupling circuit faults.petrol2002–2014Electrical
OccasionalElectrical $500–$2,400 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Murano All-Wheel Drive system uses an electronically controlled viscous-electromagnetic coupling — housed at the rear of the transfer case — to distribute torque to the front axle on demand. The coupling is engaged by a rotary electromagnetic actuator whose field coils can fail from thermal cycling or moisture ingress, or whose position sensor can drift, causing the AWD-ECU to lose feedback and default to two-wheel-drive mode. In some failure modes the actuator attempts to engage and disengage repeatedly, producing a grinding noise and storing AWD system fault codes. Real-world consequence is loss of AWD traction in wet or loose conditions, which is the primary function of the system.

Symptoms to notice

  • AWD or 4WD warning light illuminated on the instrument cluster with the vehicle reverting to front-wheel-drive only
  • Grinding or cyclic clunking from the transfer case area during low-speed manoeuvring
  • AWD system fault codes stored — typically C1130 series in the AWD ECU

What to check

  1. Scan the AWD control module for stored fault codes — C1130, C1156, and related AWD system codes indicate actuator or coupling circuit faults.
  2. With the vehicle on a four-wheel dynamometer or on a split-grip surface, verify that torque is reaching the front wheels.
  3. Inspect the actuator connector for moisture tracking or corrosion at the terminals.

Where to look: Transfer case at the rear of the transmission, with actuator motor on the driver's-side rear face

Parts involved: Transfer case.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the AWD warning light ever appeared or been diagnosed?”
  • “Has the vehicle been scanned for AWD module fault codes?”
  • “Has the transfer case or coupling actuator ever been replaced?”

03Power Steering System Failure Causing Loss of Steering Assist

With the engine running and fully warm, check the power steering fluid reservoir level and note the fluid colour.petrol2003–2014Electrical
OccasionalElectrical $550–$2,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z50 and Z51 Murano use a hydraulic rack-and-pinion power steering system. Multiple failure modes are documented in NHTSA complaints across both generations. The power steering pump can fail prematurely, causing a sudden and dramatic increase in steering effort. The high-pressure power steering hose is subject to chafing, fatigue cracking, and clamp failure, leading to fluid loss and assist reduction. Nissan issued recall 17V184 in 2017 covering 2013-2014 Z51 Muranos for a high-pressure hose clamp that could allow the hose to detach, creating both a loss of assist and a fire risk if fluid contacts hot exhaust components. The 2009 Z51 Murano accumulated 32 NHTSA steering complaints with documented instances of the steering wheel becoming suddenly heavy while driving.

Symptoms to notice

  • Sudden increase in steering effort requiring significantly more force at the wheel, particularly at low speeds
  • Moaning or whining noise from the engine bay during steering inputs that changes pitch with steering angle
  • Power steering fluid visibly low or discoloured, or a puddle of red or amber hydraulic fluid beneath the vehicle
  • Intermittent loss of power steering assist that recovers briefly before failing again as fluid level drops

What to check

  1. With the engine running and fully warm, check the power steering fluid reservoir level and note the fluid colour.
  2. Fresh fluid is clear to amber; contaminated or aerated fluid is dark or foamy.
  3. Inspect the entire length of the high-pressure hose from the pump to the rack for chafing, cracking, or seepage at both end fittings.
  4. Listen for a moaning or whining noise from the pump during low-speed parking manoeuvres, which indicates cavitation from low fluid or a failing pump.
  5. Check the reservoir cap and dipstick area for evidence of past overflow, which indicates fluid has been aerated.
  6. Turn the steering wheel to full lock in both directions and hold briefly to check for worsening noise or fluid displacement.

Where to look: Power steering pump on the driver's side of the engine, high-pressure hose running between pump and steering rack beneath the engine bay

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the power steering ever felt heavy or required unusual effort?”
  • “Has the power steering fluid ever needed topping up or been replaced?”
  • “Is the vehicle covered by the 17V184 recall and has the hose been replaced?”
  • “Are there any groaning or whining noises when turning the steering wheel?”

04Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Failure

With the engine running and the air conditioning switched on, visually inspect the front of the compressor.petrol2003–2014Electrical
CommonElectrical $480–$1,600 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The air conditioning compressor clutch on both Z50 and Z51 Muranos is a documented high-frequency failure. The clutch electromagnetic coil, clutch plate, and pulley bearing are subject to wear and heat damage. Clutch failure appears across multiple model years in NHTSA complaints and is a recurring topic on nissanmurano.org. The failure mechanism involves the clutch plate wearing or the electromagnetic coil losing sufficient magnetic draw to engage the clutch against the compressor pulley. Low refrigerant charge also prevents clutch engagement through the low-pressure protection switch, which can mask an underlying refrigerant leak as an apparent clutch fault. Once the clutch fails to engage, the air conditioning system produces no cooling regardless of system pressure.

Symptoms to notice

  • Air conditioning blows ambient temperature air with the compressor clutch visibly not engaging despite correct refrigerant pressures
  • Intermittent air conditioning operation where the system cools for a period then suddenly stops and the clutch disengages
  • Squealing or rattling noise from the compressor area when the air conditioning is switched on
  • Burning electrical smell from the engine bay caused by a shorted or overheating clutch electromagnetic coil

What to check

With the engine running and the air conditioning switched on, visually inspect the front of the compressor. The outer belt pulley spins continuously; the inner clutch plate and hub should also be rotating when the system is engaged. If the pulley spins but the clutch plate remains stationary, the clutch is not engaging. Use a manifold gauge set to verify refrigerant pressures are within the normal operating range before condemning the clutch, as a pressure fault prevents engagement. Listen for a loud rattling or squealing from the compressor area when the system is commanded on, which indicates a bearing or clutch plate fault. If a workshop inspection is possible: Check the gap between the clutch plate and the pulley face with a feeler gauge; it should be 0.35–0.65 mm and if excessive the clutch plate shims can be adjusted.

Where to look: Front face of the air conditioning compressor, mounted on the driver's side lower engine block, driven by the accessory belt

Parts involved: Clutch.

Ask the seller

  • “Does the air conditioning blow cold air consistently, including on hot days?”
  • “Has the air conditioning compressor or clutch ever been replaced?”
  • “Has the refrigerant ever been recharged and approximately when?”
  • “Is there any rattling or squealing from the engine bay when the air conditioning is switched on?”

05TPMS Sensor Battery Failure and Module Faults

Note whether the TPMS warning light is illuminated on the dash — a solid amber light after a reset attempt indicates dead sensors.petrol2008–2014Electrical
Very commonElectrical $350–$900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z51 Murano uses wheel-mounted TPMS sensors with internal lithium batteries rated for approximately 7–10 years of service life. On 2008–2012 vehicles these sensors are now well past end-of-life and will trigger a persistent TPMS warning light as individual sensors go flat. Additionally, the TPMS control module fitted to early Z51 vehicles has a documented failure mode where it stops communicating with sensors and must be replaced separately from the sensors themselves.

Symptoms to notice

  • Persistent amber TPMS warning light that does not clear after inflating tyres to correct pressure
  • TPMS light that blinks for 60–90 seconds on startup then stays on
  • Scan tool shows one or more sensor IDs not responding or missing
  • Tyre pressure readings on the MID display showing dashes instead of figures
  • TPMS warning light returning immediately after a dealer relearn procedure

What to check

  1. Note whether the TPMS warning light is illuminated on the dash — a solid amber light after a reset attempt indicates dead sensors.
  2. Ask seller whether all four sensors were recently replaced; budget for a full set if originals are still fitted on a 2008–2013 example.
  3. If a workshop inspection is possible: Use a TPMS relearn tool or scan tool to interrogate each sensor ID; non-responding sensors confirm battery failure.

Where to look: All four wheels (sensors inside wheel rims); TPMS module behind instrument panel or near spare wheel well

Ask the seller

  • “Is the TPMS warning light currently on, and has it been diagnosed?”
  • “Have any TPMS sensors been replaced, and when?”
  • “Has the TPMS system ever needed a relearn after tyre changes?”

06Power Window Regulator Cable and Clip Failure

Operate all four windows fully up and down during the test drive.petrol2008–2015Electrical
Very commonElectrical $180–$480 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z51 Murano uses a cable-type electric window regulator in all four doors. The plastic end-clips that attach the cable to the window glass carrier are prone to fracturing, causing the window to drop suddenly into the door cavity and become inoperative. This is a very widely reported failure on this generation of Nissan products; the driver's window is most commonly affected due to frequency of use but all four doors are susceptible.

Symptoms to notice

  • Window drops suddenly into the door and will not raise
  • Grinding or clicking noise from inside the door during window operation
  • Window glass tilts or leans forward at the top when fully closed
  • Window moves slowly or intermittently before failing completely
  • Motor runs but window does not move, indicating a broken cable or clip

What to check

Operate all four windows fully up and down during the test drive. Listen for grinding or clicking inside the door during window operation. Check that the window glass does not wobble laterally when fully closed. A window that drops or tilts at the top corner when raised indicates a broken clip or worn regulator.

Where to look: Inside all four doors — window regulator mechanism and carrier

Ask the seller

  • “Have any window regulators been replaced, and on which doors?”
  • “Do all four windows operate smoothly without any noise or hesitation?”
  • “Has any window ever dropped unexpectedly into the door?”
Body, brakes, suspension & interior6

01Front Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Wear

Inspect the boot for splits or grease contamination on the arm.petrol2002–2014Suspension
CommonSuspension $280–$750 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The front suspension uses a double-wishbone-derived layout with a compression-loaded ball joint pressed into the lower control arm. The ball joint stud seats in a tapered bore in the steering knuckle and carries the full vertical and lateral cornering loads of the front axle. As the joint's polymer bearing and grease seal deteriorate — accelerated by road contamination and the absence of a grease nipple on many units — the stud develops radial and axial play, which manifests as clunking and eventually causes wandering steering geometry. A failed ball joint can separate under load, resulting in immediate loss of steering and wheel collapse.

The front wheel of a car splayed outward with the lower control arm hanging down after a ball joint separation.Example of the part — not this vehicle

A separated lower ball joint: the control arm has dropped and the wheel has splayed out under the guard.

Elfix · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Symptoms to notice

  • Clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension when driving over speed humps or dips
  • Steering wander and vague on-centre feel on the motorway
  • Uneven front tyre wear indicating changed camber or toe geometry

What to check

Inspect the boot for splits or grease contamination on the arm. If a workshop inspection is possible: With the front wheels jacked clear of the ground, grip the tyre at 6 and 12 o'clock and attempt to rock it — any clunk or visible movement at the lower ball joint indicates failure. A pry bar between the lower arm and knuckle will reveal axial play.

Where to look: Front lower control arm, inboard of the front wheel on each side

Parts involved: Ball joint.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the car had a recent wheel alignment or suspension inspection?”
  • “Are there any clunking noises from the front end over bumps?”
  • “Have the lower ball joints or control arms been replaced?”

02Electric Power Steering Rack Internal Rattle and Knock

The Z51 Murano replaced hydraulic assistance with a column-mounted electric power steering motor driving a conventional rack and pinion.petrol2008–2014Suspension
CommonSuspension $1,200–$3,800 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z51 Murano replaced hydraulic assistance with a column-mounted electric power steering motor driving a conventional rack and pinion. The rack's internal anti-rattle spring and yoke mechanism — which maintains preload between the rack bar and pinion — loses its preload as the adjustment screw backs off from vibration over time. This allows the rack bar to knock against the housing under steering inputs, particularly when the wheel is moved on a stationary vehicle or over rough surfaces. In some units the EPS motor coupling also develops backlash, adding a secondary clunk felt directly at the steering wheel.

Symptoms to notice

  • Knocking or clunking sound from the steering rack when turning at low speed or on rough roads
  • Vague steering feel or dead spot near the straight-ahead position
  • EPS warning light illuminated with associated fault codes in the steering control module

What to check

With the vehicle stationary and the engine running (EPS active), turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock and listen for a knock or clunk from behind the dashboard or from the front subframe area. Have an assistant rock the steering wheel while you observe the rack under the bonnet for movement. Check for any EPS warning light codes stored in the power steering ECU.

Where to look: Steering rack mounted transversely across the front subframe, EPS motor on the steering column

Parts involved: Steering rack.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the power steering warning light ever appeared on the dashboard?”
  • “Is there any knocking noise when parking or turning at low speed?”
  • “Has the steering rack or EPS unit been replaced or adjusted?”

03Rear Multi-link Suspension Bush Collapse

Inspect rubber compound for cracking, extrusion from the sleeve, or oil seepage from hydraulic bushes.petrol2002–2014Suspension
CommonSuspension $600–$2,200 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Murano rear suspension uses a multi-link geometry with five rubber-bonded bushes per side controlling toe, camber, and trailing arm compliance. The bushes are hydraulically damped on some pivot locations and are not individually replaceable in standard service — the complete arm or sub-frame must be removed. Prolonged exposure to New Zealand road conditions, including salt spray and temperature cycling, degrades the rubber compound, causing the bonding layer to shear and the steel sleeve to move within the bush. The consequence is rear-axle toe and camber drift that produces rapid tyre wear on the inner edges and a distinct vagueness or directional instability at motorway speeds.

Symptoms to notice

  • Rear-end wandering or instability at highway speeds requiring constant small steering corrections
  • Rapid and uneven rear tyre wear, particularly on inner edges
  • Clunking from the rear suspension over rough surfaces or during hard braking

What to check

  1. Inspect rubber compound for cracking, extrusion from the sleeve, or oil seepage from hydraulic bushes.
  2. Check rear tyre wear for inner-edge scrubbing indicating toe-out from collapsed trailing arm bushes.
  3. If a workshop inspection is possible: Place the vehicle on a hoist and attempt to move each rear arm by hand in all directions while a second person watches the bush inner sleeves for relative movement.

Where to look: Rear multi-link subframe and trailing arms, both sides

Ask the seller

  • “Have the rear bushes ever been replaced or inspected?”
  • “Has the vehicle had a four-wheel alignment recently and what were the rear toe readings?”
  • “Is there any rear-end instability at speed?”

04Front and Rear Brake Caliper Guide Pin Seizure

petrol2002–2014Brakes
CommonBrakes $180–$650 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

Both the front and rear brake calipers use a sliding pin design where two hardened steel guide pins — coated in rubber boots and packed with high-temperature grease — allow the caliper body to float laterally as the pads wear. In New Zealand's environment, moisture tracks past degraded boots and corrodes the guide pin bores, causing the pins to seize in the caliper bracket. A seized pin prevents the caliper from retracting after brake application, leaving the outboard or inboard pad in constant contact with the rotor. This generates significant heat, accelerates pad and rotor wear asymmetrically, and in severe cases causes a brake fluid boil and partial loss of braking efficiency.

Symptoms to notice

  • Vehicle pulling to one side during braking, particularly under moderate to heavy brake application
  • A single wheel or brake rotor significantly hotter than the others after normal driving
  • Rapid or uneven pad wear — one pad worn to metal while the opposite pad retains full thickness

What to check

After a normal drive, carefully approach each wheel and note whether any wheel is noticeably hotter than the others — infrared thermometer readings above 120°C on a cool rotor suggest a dragging caliper. Inspect rubber boots for splits, cracking, or collapse. If a workshop inspection is possible: Remove each caliper and attempt to slide the guide pins by hand: they should move smoothly with light finger pressure.

Where to look: Front and rear brake caliper brackets, two guide pins per caliper

Parts involved: Brake disc and pads.

Ask the seller

  • “When were the brake pads and rotors last replaced and on which axle?”
  • “Does the vehicle pull to one side when braking?”
  • “Have the caliper guide pins been cleaned and greased as part of any recent brake service?”

05Front Subframe Rubber Bush Wear and Compliance Steer (Z50/Z51)

Grab the trailing edge of the subframe and check for perceptible movement at each bush.petrol2003–2014Suspension
CommonSuspension $400–$950 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The four front subframe mounting bushes on the Z50 and Z51 Murano deteriorate with age and mileage, allowing the subframe to shift under load. This produces vagueness in steering feel, mild pulling under braking and can promote uneven front tyre wear. NZ roads with potholes and rough surfaces accelerate bushing degradation. The fault is common by 120,000 km and is frequently overlooked at sale.

Symptoms to notice

  • Vague or wandering steering at highway speed
  • Mild knock or thud from the front under hard acceleration
  • Vehicle pulls slightly during braking or acceleration
  • Uneven front tyre wear across the tread

What to check

Grab the trailing edge of the subframe and check for perceptible movement at each bush. Check front tyre wear pattern. If a workshop inspection is possible: Inspect subframe mounting bush condition with the vehicle on a hoist — look for cracked, torn or collapsed rubber on all four mounting points.

Where to look: Four front subframe mounting points, accessible from underside

Ask the seller

  • “Has the front subframe or suspension been inspected recently?”
  • “Any vagueness or pulling noted in the steering?”
  • “When was the last four-wheel alignment done?”

06Blocked sunroof drains flooding the cabin

Press the carpets and footwells for damp and lift the mats.petrol2003–2015Body & Rust
OccasionalBody & Rust $200–$900 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Murano's large sunroof relies on drain tubes that route water down the pillars; on both generations these block with debris and the water backs up into the headlining, footwells and under-carpet wiring instead of draining out. Owners find soaked carpets, a musty smell and, in bad cases, corroded floor connectors and electrical faults. It is cheap to prevent (clear the drains) but expensive once water has been sitting in the car.

Symptoms to notice

  • Wet or damp front/rear footwells
  • Musty smell inside
  • Water dripping from the headlining near the sunroof
  • Fogging inside the glass; odd electrical faults

What to check

Press the carpets and footwells for damp and lift the mats. Sniff for mildew. Pour a little water into the sunroof channel and check it drains freely from under the car. Check the spare-well for standing water.

Where to look: Sunroof drain tubes in the A/C-pillars; footwells and under-carpet wiring

Ask the seller

  • “Have the sunroof drains ever blocked or the carpets got wet?”
  • “Any electrical faults after rain?”
Fluid leaks1

01Intake manifold gasket deterioration (Z50)

Let it idle and watch for an uneven idle; on a scan look for lean-mixture codes.petrol2003–2008Fluid Leaks
CommonFluid Leaks $400–$1,000 to fix

Can't confirm for this car

The Z50 Murano's VQ35DE has a known weak point in the intake-manifold gaskets, which deteriorate and cause vacuum leaks - rough idle, hesitation and sometimes a coolant weep. It is a documented soft spot of this platform. Left alone a vacuum leak can throw the car into a lean-running fault; the fix itself is not huge but the manifold has to come off.

Symptoms to notice

  • Rough or hunting idle
  • Hesitation or stumble off idle
  • Check-engine light with lean/misfire codes
  • Small coolant loss / weep near the intake

What to check

Let it idle and watch for an uneven idle; on a scan look for lean-mixture codes. Look around the intake manifold for coolant staining. A slight hiss under the bonnet at idle points to a vacuum leak.

Where to look: Intake manifold gaskets on top of the VQ35DE V6

Parts involved: Intake manifold.

Ask the seller

  • “Has the intake manifold gasket been replaced?”
  • “Does it idle roughly or throw a lean code?”

Nissan Murano faults in detail

Each of these has its own page: the symptoms, where to look, what to ask the seller and what the repair costs. Free, no account needed.

CVT Radial Needle Bearing Failure Causing Catastrophic Transmission DestructionCritical · TransmissionCVT RE0F10D Belt Wear and ShudderMajor · TransmissionJATCO CVT failure (Z50 & Z51)Critical · TransmissionRadiator Internal Partition Failure — CVT Fluid ContaminationCritical · CoolingVQ35DE Engine Oil Sludge from Extended Service IntervalsMajor · EngineVQ35DE Excessive Oil Consumption — Valve Stem Seals and Piston RingsMajor · EngineVQ35DE Timing Chain Tensioner Rattle and SlackMajor · Engine

What these repairs cost on other cars

Some of the Nissan Murano’s documented faults are repairs other models share. Each page lists the documented NZ cost for every model it affects.

Other Nissan models

Nissan Patrol48 documented faultsNissan Navara45 documented faultsNissan X-Trail45 documented faultsNissan Pulsar21 documented faultsNissan Teana20 documented faultsNissan Tiida20 documented faults

Nissan Murano buyer questions

Is the Nissan Murano reliable?

Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 21 documented faults for the Nissan Murano, the recurring problem areas are transmission, cooling, and suspension. A Nissan Murano with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.

What are the most common problems with a used Nissan Murano?

We've catalogued 21 known faults for the Nissan Murano, covering transmission, cooling, and suspension. All 21 are written out in full on this page, with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each. Free to read, no account needed.

How much do repairs cost on a Nissan Murano?

Most single repairs on the Nissan Murano fall between $550–$2,200 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 21 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.

Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Nissan Murano?

Yes. A Nissan Murano inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $24.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.