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Some have called the Murano a work of art. It boasts attractive lines, impressive lighting elements, and a sporty profile. That said, this Nissan midsize SUV has its share of issues. Here are the three most common Nissan Murano problems to weigh when considering this crossover SUV.

The 3 most common Nissan Murano problems

Blue 2019 Nissan Murano on a Country Road
2019 Nissan Murano | Nissan

Repair and maintenance data that RepairPal collects from owners of 2010 to 2019 models shows the three most common Nissan Murano problems:

  • Failing engine mounts cause thumping in the floor — reported by more than 180 owners
  • A damaged seat adjuster assembly causes noise/rocking movement — reported by over 140 owners
  • The air intake tube on the air cleaner box becomes lose — reported by nearly 40 owners

Could these issues turn you away from buying a used Murano? Here are more details.

How can owners repair failing engine mounts?

When a thumping sound comes from the floor of this Nissan midsize SUV, failed engine mounts are likely the cause. The sound comes from the engine moving too much. If this occurs, the engine mounts must be replaced. Owners have reported this issue arising around 96,000 miles on average.

The seat adjuster problem can be one of the most annoying issues

The second most common Nissan Murano problem is a broken or damaged seat adjuster assembly. It can cause the seat to rock back and forth, squeak, or stop adjusting forward, backward, up, or down. This issue generally appears after 84,000 miles.

What should owners do when the air intake tube becomes detached?

Nissan issued a recall for the Murano regarding the air cleaner box or tube coming loose. This recall is for 2003 to 2007 models of this five-seat Nissan midsize SUV. If your Murano has this issue and is within the recalled model year range, this repair shouldn’t cost you anything. The average mileage when this issue arises is 84,000.

Is the Nissan Murano a reliable SUV?

Burgundy 2018 Nisan Murano Posed with a Mountain Backdrop
2018 Nisan Murano | Nissan

The Nissan Murano received a reliability score of 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. That places it 20th out of 26 compact SUVs. (Most consider the Murano a midsize SUV, but not RepairPal.) This ranking is based on three factors:

  • Cost: The Nissan Murano’s average annual repair and maintenance costs are $507, less than the $521 average for all compact SUVs.
  • Frequency: Murano owners take their vehicles for unscheduled repairs 0.51 times per year, more than the 0.3 average for the class.
  • Severity: The probability of severe repairs for the Nissan Murano is 14%, compared to 11% for all compact SUVs.

However, J.D. Power gives most Murano model years “great” reliability scores.

Is the 2023 Nissan Murano a good SUV?

Opinions vary on whether the latest Murano is a good SUV. U.S. News & World Report scores it 7.6 out of 10 overall and ranks it toward the bottom of its class: 20th out of 23. But J.D. Power gives the 2023 Nissan Murano the highest reliability score in its class and assigns it an overall 86 out of 100 — placing it first among midsize SUVs.

Highlights include excellent interior quality, comfortable seats, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Also, the 2023 Murano’s relatively efficient V6 engine is more potent than most competitors. In addition, the soft suspension provides a pleasant ride.

However, drawbacks are dull handling, noticeable body roll, a dated design, and a small cargo area.