2013 Nissan Murano

The 2013 Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, stylish design (for the time), and relatively upscale interior. It came standard with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While owners often praise its comfortable seating and smooth ride, common complaints revolve around the reliability of the CVT transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gaskets or the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, check engine light, rattling noise from under the vehicle, failing emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Transmission Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during acceleration, slipping, jerking, inability to accelerate, and/or complete failure of the transmission. The transmission can overheat, causing damage to the internal components.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the CVT might require a complete replacement or a rebuild. Regular fluid changes might prevent the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Chain Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: A whining noise, especially during acceleration, accompanied by a feeling of the transmission “slipping.”
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT chain or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per axle)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that increases with vehicle speed, especially when turning.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty wheel bearing assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short period, preventing the vehicle from starting. This can be due to a parasitic draw from an electrical component not shutting off correctly.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Replacing the battery may only temporarily solve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete loss of Bluetooth connectivity. Difficulty pairing devices, dropped calls, or inability to stream audio.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. If not, the Bluetooth module may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch will not stay open on its own and falls down.
  • Solution: Replace the gas struts/lifts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AC blows warm air, or the temperature is inconsistent. Often due to a refrigerant leak or compressor failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the AC compressor or condenser. Recharge the refrigerant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Nissan Murano, while offering a comfortable and stylish ride, is prone to some significant reliability issues. The most concerning is the potential for CVT failure, which can be very expensive to repair. Other issues like oil leaks and electrical problems are also common. It is vital to have the CVT inspected before purchase and maintain diligent service. The overall severity of the common issues range from moderate to severe. The cost of repair can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, making it imperative to factor in potential maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.