Burned out window motors, broken door handles, bad power seats and some occasional electrical problems comprise the larger part of the common problem list. On a test drive, it will be important to ensure proper operation of all accessories and controls within the cabin. Check for proper operation of the air conditioner and note any warning lights in the instrument cluster, too.
Engine and drivetrain problems are unquestionably present in the used Murano community, though they don't seem frequent or systematic enough to be of terrible concern. Oil may leak around the oil filter area on some models due to a bad gasket, and there's a potential ticking sound caused by a poorly insulated fuel line. The engine may hesitate to start in the cold in certain situations, though this issue is fixed by reprogramming some of the on-board electronics.
Ultimately though, the 3.5 litre V6 is an international award-winner-- and a powerplant that Nissan has nailed down over the years. As far as an engine is concerned, this one's a very sure bet. Unfortunately, the transfer case to which it's attached could be prone to cracking and leaking- so you'll want to have a poke around underneath to check for signs of oil dripped or sprayed onto the underbelly.
The CVT transmission, statistically speaking, seems to have fared well in terms of reliability-- though some cases of failure were reported. Since a CVT feels like a slipping automatic on purpose, getting a feel for one on a test-drive is a bit tricky. You may want to solicit some help from a mechanic here to make sure things are working properly.
Listen to the Murano's brakes while stopping. Squealing or other unusual noises could indicate the need for a parking brake adjustment or new brake-pads. Suspension noise, additionally, seems to be normal in the cold, and may require adjusting the front strut-mounts.
Does the vehicle pull to either side when you release the steering wheel on a flat road? If so, it may need an alignment. To double check, inspect the tires for signs of uneven wear across their treads.
Finally, ask the former owner or sales representative if the alternator has ever been replaced on the model you're looking at. An alternator defect is known to cause severe charging system problems which could even cause the Murano to stall while driving. This issue was addressed by a recall campaign, so be sure the work has been performed. Remember, nothing ruins a family outing like a vehicle stalling out at highway speeds.
Other recall items dealt with a possibly defective steering wheel lock assembly that could lock the steering column in place during driving, as well as a fuel vapor system fitting that could become detached and cause a fire.
For such a unique, sophisticated, first-generation machine, things could be much worse. Buying a certified used model is advisable-- and if you're in the used crossover market for something that stands out and pleases the driving enthusiast, Murano should definitely be on your list.
photo:Nissan
Engine and drivetrain problems are unquestionably present in the used Murano community, though they don't seem frequent or systematic enough to be of terrible concern. Oil may leak around the oil filter area on some models due to a bad gasket, and there's a potential ticking sound caused by a poorly insulated fuel line. The engine may hesitate to start in the cold in certain situations, though this issue is fixed by reprogramming some of the on-board electronics.
Ultimately though, the 3.5 litre V6 is an international award-winner-- and a powerplant that Nissan has nailed down over the years. As far as an engine is concerned, this one's a very sure bet. Unfortunately, the transfer case to which it's attached could be prone to cracking and leaking- so you'll want to have a poke around underneath to check for signs of oil dripped or sprayed onto the underbelly.
The CVT transmission, statistically speaking, seems to have fared well in terms of reliability-- though some cases of failure were reported. Since a CVT feels like a slipping automatic on purpose, getting a feel for one on a test-drive is a bit tricky. You may want to solicit some help from a mechanic here to make sure things are working properly.
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| On a test drive, it will be important to ensure proper operation of all accessories and controls within the cabin. |
Listen to the Murano's brakes while stopping. Squealing or other unusual noises could indicate the need for a parking brake adjustment or new brake-pads. Suspension noise, additionally, seems to be normal in the cold, and may require adjusting the front strut-mounts.
Does the vehicle pull to either side when you release the steering wheel on a flat road? If so, it may need an alignment. To double check, inspect the tires for signs of uneven wear across their treads.
Finally, ask the former owner or sales representative if the alternator has ever been replaced on the model you're looking at. An alternator defect is known to cause severe charging system problems which could even cause the Murano to stall while driving. This issue was addressed by a recall campaign, so be sure the work has been performed. Remember, nothing ruins a family outing like a vehicle stalling out at highway speeds.
Other recall items dealt with a possibly defective steering wheel lock assembly that could lock the steering column in place during driving, as well as a fuel vapor system fitting that could become detached and cause a fire.
For such a unique, sophisticated, first-generation machine, things could be much worse. Buying a certified used model is advisable-- and if you're in the used crossover market for something that stands out and pleases the driving enthusiast, Murano should definitely be on your list.
photo:Nissan
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