Nissan Murano reliability: common problems by model year
Across 6 model years, the Nissan Murano has 547 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 14 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and service brakes. 2015 drew the most complaints (201), 2024 the fewest (4).
6
Model years tracked
547
Owner complaints
14
Recalls
108
Median per year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Nissan Murano vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $32,698–$40,200.
Which Murano years have the most problems?
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Deeply polarized sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of first-generation (2003-2007) and second-generation (2009-2014) models report significant, often catastrophic, issues with the JATCO CVT transmission, leading to widespread distrus
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) failure: Catastrophic, premature failure is the dominant issue. Described as a "time bomb," especially after 100,000 miles (161,000 km). Failure often occurs without warning, with repair/replacement costs cited between $5,000 and $8,000 USD. Linked to class action lawsuits and warranty extensions for specific model years (e.g., 2010, 2015-2018). Frequency: very frequent.
CVT shudder and lag: Delayed engagement ("takes a second or two to go"), shuddering at low and high speeds, and general sluggishness. Often a precursor to total failure. Frequency: recurrent.
General reliability concerns: Perceived as less reliable and more cheaply constructed than key Japanese competitors (Honda, Toyota). Described as a potential "money pit," particularly older high-mileage examples. Frequency: recurrent.
Electrical issues: Isolated reports of unexplained electrical problems that were difficult to diagnose and repair. Frequency: isolated.
Alternator failures: Mentioned as a replacement item on higher-mileage vehicles, with a note to avoid certain remanufactured units. Frequency: isolated.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Murano. Individual model years are broken down above.