Nissan Murano: Opinions. Characteristics

He Nissan Murano It was one of the first big crossovers. It combined the characteristics of an SUV and a middle-class pickup truck, and optically did not try to refer to the heavy silhouettes of classic off-roaders.

This beautiful car brought with it a powerful engine, extensive equipment and… affordable prices on the secondary market. But is it worth buying a used Nissan Murano? Well, you should not make a hasty decision, since for many this car has the biggest unknowns in the aftermarket.

So to help you provide answers so you can decide whether to purchase a Nissan Murano, our experts did a great job of research, in which the opinions of their users were taken into account. Therefore, get ready to know the most important thing about this SUV.

Features of the Nissan Murano

Since before starting the search for a used car, many people try to understand which version of the engine and equipment will be optimal for them, here we will talk about this key point. In the case of the Nissan Murano, you can find the following features:

Inside

Nissan has designed an unusual cabin full of angular shapes and an unusual layout, such as the instrument cluster, which slightly resembles the Nissan 350Z counterparts. The set is assembled from a combination of soft and hard materials, often in beige colors.

The readability is sometimes “weak”, as is the ergonomics of the cabin: many reservations flow to the color navigation screen hidden behind the console. Nissan Murano owners do not complain about knocks and other unwanted sounds, but the decorative elements (in silver) are behind them.

For such a built car, front and side visibility (without turning your head) remains at a decent level. It’s much worse in the rear, but many Muranos have a rear-view camera. More for the ability to adjust the position of the pedals.

The Murano I has never been offered in a 7-seater version, but there is nothing wrong with that as it will carry 5 passengers in very good condition. On one condition: in the back, in the center, a child or a thin person will sit.

Furthermore, the middle tunnel has a symbolic dimension, but the place itself is harder and with a shorter seat, so it is better to treat it as… an armrest. The front seats, at least in European carshave an extensive electrical adjustment system, but do not impress with their comfort.

On the other hand, in most reviews few people complain about the amount of space in the Nissan Murano’s cabin, no matter where they sit. The trunk is a little worse: for a 4.76-meter car you can expect more than 440 liters. A high-loading sill leads to it, while the trunk remains rather shallow.

This is the effect of having a practical organizer underneath (with compartments for small items) and a large space for a spare wheel. By folding the sofa, you can increase it to more than 2000 liters.

Design and relationship of its engines

Under the hood of the Nissan Murano is a 3.5-liter V6 (234 hp, 318 Nm), which is an upgraded unit used in the Nissan 350Z. The same engine, with accessories, was installed in Infiniti G35, Renault Vel Satis and Espace. The engine impresses with its traction and pleasant sound.

It works in conjunction with the X-Tronic continuously variable transmission. In addition to the automatic mode, the X-Tronic variator is equipped with a manual mode, in which you can have six electronically programmed gears.

On the other hand, you should not count on a sporty character, but a sprint time of 8.9 seconds will satisfy you as a car enthusiast. It is important that you keep in mind that the suspension and steering settings are adapted to the engine capabilities, ensuring dynamic and safe driving.

It is more difficult to accept the expense, which is:

• The combined cycle is approximately 13 or 14 liters for every 100 km.
• On the roadapproximately 11 liters for 100 km.
• In town, consumption is in the range of 16 to 17 liters per 100 km.

Therefore, as expected, some owners reflect in their opinions the rush to install gas equipment.

Of course, it’s worth noting that there is also a rather exotic combination of a naturally aspirated 2.5 petrol and a 4-speed automatic on the market. These “Nissan Murano” cars are exclusively front-wheel-drive.

Equipment

Finding the best-equipped Nissan Murano is a bit tricky, as a base S trim, a limited SE, and a top-of-the-line SL were offered. Additionally, Nissan provided a number of extras. Although the most common is the basic version equipped with a continuously variable variator and a front drive axle.

Besides, Nissan declared that 1600 innovations were used in the creation of the European amendment. Some of the changes were aimed at adapting the car to the realities of European traffic:

• The suspension became much denser.
• Brake pads were installed that consume more energy.
• The CVT control program was changed to improve response to the accelerator pedal.
• A gearbox radiator was introduced to maintain optimal variator oil temperature even at high speeds.

Furthermore, the equipment was also different. For example, among US cars, it is easy to come across a copy without leather upholstery. At the same time in the “American” you can find a dual-zone thermometer or climate control, which in Europe was not available even for an extra charge.

Therefore, if you want to buy a US-spec Nissan Murano, you should pay attention to cars from the 2006 model year (production: from the second half of 2005). These are redesigned versions with improved mechanics, an expanded equipment list, and an updated exterior and interior.

However, it’s not just that you look for the best-equipped car, as you need to pay attention to details and inspect carefully if you come across a Nissan Murano from USA.

Common problems

All opinions about the Nissan Murano are not positive. This SUV has its negative side, which we will tell you about below in its most common breakdowns or failures:

Engine

The 3.5 V6 VQ35DE engine has a timing chain drive. The chain resource is more than 200-250 thousand km. Many carers carry out the replacement only by removing the engine, which significantly increases the cost of repairs. However, the chain can be replaced without disassembling the power unit.

With significant mileage, oil leaks are found through oil seals, spark plug wells, and valve cover gaskets. Additionally, the sensors begin to fail. After 200–250 thousand km, oil consumption increases: the oil scraper rings are found and the oil scraper seals become unusable.

Transmission

The transmission was too weak for such a powerful engine. There were some problems even during the warranty period. After 150-200 thousand km, its users point out in their opinions problems with the electronic part of the CVT, the chain transmission and the transfer case.

Furthermore, many share that there is no single recipe to avoid all problems. Some owners are even sure they shouldn’t use the center differential lock. (lock mode) since the clutch allows you to overcome even the most difficult conditions in automatic mode.

• It is also necessary to avoid prolonged driving at high speeds and change the transmission oil every 60,000 km.

Official services most often recommend the original product – Nissan NS-2 CVT. For a complete replacement, 10.2 liters of oil are required. Remember that using ATF instead of NS-2 oil will destroy the variator.

The incidence and cost of transmission maintenance makes information about past repairs and service progress golden. Before purchasing, you should visit a dealer or specialized center, which will be able to correctly evaluate the condition of the transmission.

Undercarriage

Braking performance is not enough for a 1.8-ton crossover. As a result, brake pads and discs wear out quickly. Additionally, brake discs are subject to deformation.

With high mileage, the suspension will not be left without attention. Just keep in mind that a knock on the chassis on most irregularities does not mean wear of the bushings and ball joints: slightly muffled sounds are annoying even on the completely new Nissan Murano.

After 200,000 km, you should take into account the silent blocks of the subframes, more often the front (4 silent blocks). Years later, you will need attention to the steering rack, power steering pump, and steering axle cross.

Other problems and breakdowns

The main thing is that with age, corrosion actively develops in the rear wheel arches (under the door seal). Additionally, rust can be found on the shock absorber support cup, which can rot into holes. Among others, such as:

• A clogged roof hatch drain may cause water in the passenger compartment.
• After 250,000 km, the door and trunk locks begin to fail. In most cases, it can be lowered by replacing the servomotor.
• The generator was also not very durable.
• The exhaust system resonator hangs too low, which is why it is often damaged and requires replacement.

Our opinion

The Nissan Murano allows you to enjoy a high level of comfort, rich equipment, and a well-tuned and dynamic chassis at a reasonable price. But, if you have decided to buy a Japanese crossover, you should not forget about the high costs, both of operation and maintenance. Most replacement parts are easy to purchase online. However, the prices will not be the lowest.

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