2004 Nissan Murano

The 2004 Nissan Murano was a pioneering crossover SUV, known for its stylish design and comfortable ride. All 2004 Murano models came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 245 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often praised its smooth acceleration and car-like handling, but some criticized its CVT reliability and fuel economy. Common dislikes included electrical issues and premature wear of certain components.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter can fail, leading to poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and a check engine light with codes related to catalyst inefficiency (e.g., P0420).
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ depending on the part and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission is known to have reliability issues, often failing prematurely. Symptoms include slipping, shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, and complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the CVT transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ for replacement, $1,500 - $3,500+ for rebuild.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the valve body can cause erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and overall poor transmission performance.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking noises, especially when going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect alignment.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn wheel bearings can cause a humming or grinding noise that increases with speed. There may also be excessive play in the wheel.
  • Solution: Replacing the wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, causing the vehicle to not start. The cause could be a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate properly, either getting stuck or not responding to the switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Struts Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch struts (lift supports) can weaken over time, causing the hatch to not stay open or close unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing the sunroof to get stuck, leak, or not open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

The 2004 Nissan Murano is known for its stylish design and comfortable ride, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The most significant and expensive issue is the potential for CVT transmission failure, which can cost several thousands of dollars to repair or replace. Other common issues, such as oil leaks and electrical problems, can also add to the overall cost of ownership.