2009 Nissan Murano

The 2009 Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, stylish interior, and distinctive exterior design. The vehicle is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While many owners appreciate the Murano’s comfortable seating and smooth ride, some common complaints include issues with the CVT transmission and various electrical problems.

Engine

3.5L VQ35DE V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine performance, illuminated check engine light (typically with codes P0420 or P0430), and potentially a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Slippage/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, particularly when cold. Slipping feeling like the engine is revving but the vehicle is not accelerating accordingly. Can also cause shuddering at certain speeds. This is due to wear on the internal belt and pulleys.
  • Solution: In some cases, a CVT fluid change can alleviate symptoms, but often requires a full CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for fluid change, $3000 - $5000+ for transmission replacement.
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of drive, loud noises from the transmission, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $5000+
  • Recalls:
    • R0603 - Nissan is recalling certain model year 2003-2009 Nissan Murano vehicles originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin. In the subject vehicles, road salt may enter into the front suspension lower link weld joint.

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises coming from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Due to wear and tear of the strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear Suspension Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings, sway bar links, or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often intermittently. Commonly attributed to a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery draining overnight or within a short period, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or component.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain. This could involve replacing a faulty module or repairing a wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminating on the dashboard, potentially accompanied by the traction control light. May also experience reduced braking performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch not staying open on its own, requiring manual support.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear hatch struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks or replacing the sunroof motor or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen freezing, not responding to inputs, or failing to load maps.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Summary

The 2009 Nissan Murano, while generally a comfortable and stylish vehicle, does have some recurring issues. The most significant and potentially expensive issues are related to the CVT transmission, which can experience slippage or complete failure. Electrical issues, such as power window failures and battery drain, are also relatively common. Suspension noises and leaks are also relatively common. Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage, with transmission repairs being the most expensive.