In short: the most reliability-risk Murano years to steer clear of are the early second-generation models (roughly 2009–2011), when CVT transmission issues were most commonly reported. Later years generally improve, but potential buyers should still verify transmission health, recall work, and maintenance history before purchase.
Understanding which Murano years to avoid requires looking at how reliability and common failures have trended across generations. The Murano has gone through two major redesigns before the current era, and the most persistent trouble spots in owner feedback and recall data center on the continuously variable transmission (CVT), along with a few electrical and safety-related concerns. Below is guidance based on historical reliability trends, recall data, and typical ownership experiences up to the present.
Model years to approach with caution
Here is a focused list of Murano years that have shown stronger reliability concerns in consumer feedback and recall history. Individual vehicles can vary, but these years carry the most associated risk.
- 2009–2011 Murano (second generation): The period with the strongest reports of CVT-related issues, including slipping, shuddering, and costly repairs. Transmission problems are the primary reason buyers should review service history closely.
- 2012–2014 Murano (second generation): CVT issues continue to appear in owner reports, though less frequently than the earliest years; electrical/electrical-gremlin complaints and HVAC quirks also show up occasionally.
- 2015–2017 Murano (third generation): Reliability generally improved versus the early second-generation years, but CVT reliability remains a consideration; verify that any maintenance and software updates for the transmission are up to date and consider an extended warranty if available.
Conclusion: These years carry the most consistent reliability risk based on historical data and owner feedback. A meticulous pre-purchase inspection, confirmed CVT health, and complete recall/work history are essential if you’re evaluating a Murano from these generations.
What to check when shopping a Murano
Before you buy, use this checklist to minimize the chance of a costly surprise. The goal is to confirm CVT health, confirm recall fixes are completed, and verify the vehicle’s maintenance history.
- Review full service and maintenance history, with emphasis on CVT fluid changes and any transmission-related repairs.
- Have a qualified mechanic inspect the CVT, including a test drive that covers multiple speeds, warming up the transmission, and listening for slipping, whine noises, or abrupt shudder.
- Check recall status and whether any open campaigns have been completed (airbags, fuel system, door latches, etc.) using the VIN via NHTSA or Nissan’s service records.
- Inspect for oil consumption or unusual engine noise on V6 variants; document oil-change intervals and any topped-off or burned oil issues.
- Test electrical systems and creature comforts (infotainment, power windows, door latches, sensors) for intermittent faults that sometimes accompany older Murano units.
- Ask about any CVT software updates or warranty extensions that may apply to the specific model year; confirm eligibility with the dealer or Nissan.
Conclusion: A vehicle with a clean, well-documented maintenance record and a CVT that shows no abnormal behavior during inspection is far less likely to cause unforeseen expenses. Don’t skip a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Practical tips and sensible alternatives
These shopping tips help you balance bargain hunting with long-term reliability and ownership costs. They also point to sensible alternatives if reliability is the top priority.
- Prefer later-model Murano examples within a generation (where available) that have documented CVT updates and ongoing maintenance.
- Compare ownership costs, including potential CVT repair or replacement, insurance, fuel economy, and maintenance intervals.
- If reliability is paramount, consider alternatives with stronger long-term reliability reputations in the same class, such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Mazda CX-9, and compare total cost of ownership.
Conclusion: With careful selection, the Murano can still be a comfortable and feature-rich option. However, a focus on maintenance history, CVT health, and recall completion is essential, and it may be prudent to consider alternatives if long-term reliability is the priority.
Summary
The Nissan Murano’s reliability profile centers on its CVT-equipped generations. The most consistently problematic years historically are the early second-generation models (roughly 2009–2011), with continued concern into 2012–2014 and varying risk into the 2015–2017 range. Buyers should prioritize full maintenance records, a careful CVT inspection, and verified recall remedies. When in doubt, consider later-model Murano variants or competing crossovers with stronger reliability histories, and always weigh potential maintenance costs against the purchase price. A careful pre-purchase inspection and informed shopping approach are the best safeguards for a Murano purchase.