The most common problem reported by Murano owners is transmission trouble related to the vehicle’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can cause slipping, shuddering, hesitation, or even complete failure and costly repairs. This article explains why the CVT is frequently cited as the sticking point, which model years are most affected, and how to spot warning signs or avoid problems when shopping used.
Why the CVT tends to be the sticking point
The Murano’s CVT is designed to deliver smooth, efficient acceleration, but its design can be susceptible to wear, software glitches, and fluid-related issues that produce slipping or sluggish response. When a CVT fails, the repair often involves replacement or a major rebuild, which can be expensive. Maintenance, including timely CVT fluid changes, is widely considered crucial to longevity.
Common symptoms that signal CVT trouble include the following:
- Slipping or losing gears during acceleration, with a sudden loss of power or a surging feeling
- Shuddering, bucking, or delay when you press the accelerator
- Whining, buzzing, or metallic noises from the transmission area
- Transmission warning light or check engine light illuminating
- Difficulty moving or complete transmission failure in severe cases
All these issues tend to drive repair costs higher and are a frequent reason buyers worry about used Murano values. While not every Murano experiences CVT problems, the risk persists across generations that used the same transmission family, making it one of the model’s most-discussed reliability topics.
Other recurring issues reported by Murano owners
Beyond the CVT, several problems have appeared in owner reports and reliability references. These issues are less universal than CVT failures but show up with enough frequency to matter for buyers and owners alike.
- Oil consumption and leaks on some older engines, particularly with higher mileage
- Electrical issues such as failing power window regulators, door locks, and mirror adjustments
- HVAC problems, including weak or non-functional climate control or blower motor failures
- Suspension wear, including worn struts, bushings, and alignment-related concerns causing clunks and ride quality degradation
- All-wheel-drive or transfer-case noises and related repairs on AWD models
These reports vary by year and maintenance history, but they contribute to the Murano’s overall reliability conversation and can influence ownership costs more than in some comparable SUVs.
What to check when shopping for a Murano
Prospective buyers or current owners looking at a Murano should focus on the transmission’s health, maintenance history, and any open recalls or service campaigns. The following guidance helps distinguish well-maintained examples from potential trouble cases.
- Verify a complete service history with documented CVT fluid changes and any transmission-related repairs
- Obtain a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified technician, with particular attention to CVT behavior during a test drive
- Check for any open recalls related to the transmission, engine, or electrical systems and confirm whether dealer recalls were addressed
- Test drive with varied speeds and loads to observe for slipping, hesitation, or unusual noises
- Inspect for oil leaks, monitor oil level, and look for signs of oil consumption in higher-mileage engines
- Ask about available warranties or goodwill coverage on the CVT and whether coverage extends to the specific vehicle you’re considering
Thorough due diligence can reduce the risk of owning a Murano with a problematic CVT or other recurrent issues and improve long-term ownership costs.
Summary
The Nissan Murano’s most common reliability concern centers on the CVT transmission, which can present as slipping, shuddering, or failure requiring costly repairs. While other issues such as electrical faults, oil consumption, climate control, and suspension wear appear in owner reports, the CVT remains the focal point for maintenance and buying decisions. Prospective buyers should prioritize a full service history, a careful CVT assessment, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection to avoid the most common pitfalls.