2008 Nissan Murano

The 2008 Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, distinctive styling, and powerful V6 engine. It came standard with a 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine producing 265 horsepower and 244 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciate its comfortable seating and smooth driving experience, but some dislike its CVT transmission’s performance and potential reliability issues.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing valve stem seals or piston rings may be necessary. Regular monitoring of oil levels is crucial.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the source of the oil consumption.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Can lead to more severe engine damage if the chain slips.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain tensioner, timing chain, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Transmission Failure/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration, slipping between “gears”, complete transmission failure. May present as a jerking or shuddering sensation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT with a new or remanufactured unit. In some cases, valve body replacement can address early symptoms, but is not always effective.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+ for replacement. $800 - $1500 for valve body repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at lower speeds, often feels like the engine is misfiring.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some instances, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may alleviate the symptoms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing worn sway bar bushings and/or end links, rear struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnosing parasitic draw and repairing the faulty component, such as a faulty relay, module, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component causing the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge showing inaccurate readings, either staying at full or empty, or fluctuating erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel level sending unit inside the fuel tank.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear hatch not staying open on its own, falling closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, replacing the sunroof motor, or repairing/replacing damaged components in the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, one side of the vehicle blowing hot air while the other blows cold, or inability to change temperature settings. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2008 Nissan Murano, while stylish and comfortable, is prone to some notable issues. The most significant concern revolves around the CVT transmission, which can suffer from slipping, shuddering, and eventual failure, leading to substantial repair costs. Engine issues such as oil consumption and timing chain problems can also be expensive to address. Electrical problems like battery drain and inaccurate fuel gauges, and other interior issues, while less critical, can still add to the overall cost of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected, especially checking the transmission’s health, before purchase.