Yes — there are reported transmission issues with the 2010 Murano, primarily tied to its CVT. However, experiences vary, and many owners report reliable service with proper maintenance.
Beyond that short answer, this article explains the nature of the transmission, common symptoms, warranty coverage, and practical advice for current and prospective owners.
What kind of transmission does the 2010 Murano use?
The 2010 Murano uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) built for Nissan by JATCO, paired with the 3.5-liter V6. CVTs are designed to deliver smooth acceleration and improved fuel economy, but they operate differently from traditional automatics, which can lead to distinct maintenance needs and failure modes as vehicles age.
Reported problems and symptoms
To help readers understand the scope of the issue, here are the symptoms that have been reported by Murano owners and repair technicians.
- Jerking, shuddering, or hesitation during acceleration
- Delayed engagement or slipping between commands
- Whining, humming, or grinding noises from the transmission
- Loss of power or “limp mode” activation requiring service
- Harsh or inconsistent shifting or surges in engine speed
- Overheating or premature transmission failure in some cases
What these reports have in common is that symptoms often appear as the vehicle ages and can stem from CVT wear, fluid condition, or calibration issues. Not every 2010 Murano experiences a problem, and some vehicles perform reliably with attentive maintenance.
Warranty coverage and recalls
Nissan has addressed CVT concerns with service bulletins and, for some models, extended warranty coverage on CVT components. Coverage is typically VIN- and mileage-based, so owners should verify eligibility with a dealer for their specific vehicle. In addition, certain Murano models were subject to recalls or software updates that can affect transmission control and operation.
- Extended CVT warranty for qualifying years/models; eligibility is based on VIN and mileage
- Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) addressing CVT behavior, wear, and reliability
- Possible recalls or software updates affecting transmission control systems
If you own or are considering a used 2010 Murano, check recall status and warranty eligibility using the VIN via Nissan, a dealer, or the NHTSA recall database.
What to do if you own a 2010 Murano with CVT problems
If you notice symptoms or are evaluating a vehicle with known CVT reports, consider these steps before proceeding with repairs or purchase decisions.
- Have a qualified technician inspect for CVT-related symptoms and verify fluid quality and level
- Ask about any applicable warranty coverage or recall/service bulletin updates and request documentation
- Discuss CVT fluid replacement, software updates, or “relearn” procedures with the dealer
- Consider the cost implications of CVT repair versus replacement and explore remanufactured or alternative options
CVT repairs can be costly, and outcomes vary by vehicle history and maintenance. Early intervention and adherence to warranty coverage can influence outcomes.
What to watch for when buying used
When shopping for a used 2010 Murano, arrange a thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on the transmission. Look for signs of CVT trouble such as abnormal noises, sudden shuddering, delayed responses, or warning lights on the dash. Also review maintenance history, especially any CVT fluid service and whether recalls or warranty extensions were addressed.
Summary
The 2010 Murano’s CVT presents a mixed picture: some owners experience reliable operation for many miles, while others encounter transmission-related problems that can be costly to repair. Prospective buyers should verify warranty status and recall history, and current owners should monitor symptoms and consult a Nissan dealer if issues arise. Regular maintenance and timely attention to warning signs can improve outcomes for many vehicles in this model year.