2017 Nissan Murano

The 2017 Nissan Murano is a mid-size SUV known for its comfortable ride, stylish interior, and distinctive exterior design. It is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners appreciate the Murano for its smooth ride, spacious cabin, and user-friendly technology. Some common dislikes include the CVT’s performance, especially during hard acceleration, and the relatively bland driving experience.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the leak and labor involved.
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature timing chain wear or failure. Symptoms may include a rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold, engine misfires, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission is known for experiencing issues such as shuddering, slipping, hesitation during acceleration, and complete failure. This is due to wear of the internal belt, pulleys, and valve body.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT transmission. Some owners may attempt a rebuild but replacement is often recommended for long-term reliability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $5,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Can also cause harsh shifting or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Often involves replacing worn bushings, sway bar links, or shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$600+ depending on which parts need to be replaced.

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car is left sitting for a few days. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or accessory, or repairing a wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various sensors, such as the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, or ABS sensors, can trigger the check engine light and affect vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500+ depending on the sensor.

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may make unusual noises. This can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor, struts, or latch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty liftgate motor, struts, or latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Freezing or Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates are sometimes helpful, but in some cases, the unit needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software update) - $1,500+ (for replacement).
• Heated Seat Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated seats may fail to heat up, or may overheat.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Summary

The 2017 Nissan Murano can be a comfortable and stylish SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly those related to the CVT transmission. The transmission and engine issues can be relatively costly to repair, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchase. Electrical and interior issues are generally less severe, but can still be frustrating to deal with. Overall, the severity of potential issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures.