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Nissan · Known Issues

2004 Nissan Murano Problems: 6 Known Issues

2004 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Nissan Murano has 6 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is CVT Transmission Judder, Slipping, and Premature Failure ($4,000-$8,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Murano Transmission1
  • Murano Drivetrain1
  • Murano Engine1
  • Murano Steering1
  • Murano Electrical1
  • Murano Exhaust1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Engine1
  • Steering1
  • Electrical1
  • Exhaust1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2024202320222021202020192018201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006200520042003

On the 2003-2019 Nissan Murano, third-generation Muranos equipped with Nissan's JATCO continuously variable transmission (CVT) commonly develop juddering/shuddering on light acceleration, hesitation, lag, overheating, and outright failure, frequently before 100,000 miles. Nissan acknowledged the judder via TSB and stored DTCs P17F0/P17F1, and a class-action settlement (Beaver v. Nissan North America) extended the CVT warranty to 84 months/84,000 miles for 2015-2018 Muranos with up to $5,000 in repair reimbursement. Earlier 2003-2010 CVT-equipped models also suffered widespread slipping and failure. Full replacement commonly runs $4,000-$8,000.

This issue also affects: Infiniti QX55, Infiniti QX60, Nissan Altima

Common Symptoms

  • Shuddering or juddering on light acceleration
  • Hesitation or delayed engagement
  • Slipping or RPM flare without acceleration
  • Loss of power / failure to launch from a stop
  • Whining noise
  • Transmission overheating
  • Limp mode

How to Fix

Under the extended warranty (84 mo/84k mi for 2015-2018), have the dealer diagnose the stored code: P17F1 typically calls for CVT valve-body/sub-assembly replacement while P17F0 requires full transmission replacement. Keep CVT fluid (Nissan NS-3) changed on a shortened interval (~30k miles) and consider an auxiliary CVT cooler to reduce overheating. Out of warranty, a remanufactured CVT or valve body is the fix.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan NS-2 CVT fluid 999MP-NS200P

    Use only for the record's 2003-2007 and 2009-2010 vehicles after exact service-manual confirmation. Verify capacity and level procedure; do not substitute for NS-3.

    Z1 Motorsports
  • Genuine Nissan NS-3 CVT fluid 999MP-CV0NS3

    Confirm VIN, transmission, quantity and temperature-based fill procedure.

    Team Nissan Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$4,000 - $8,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano, aWD-equipped Muranos are prone to transfer case seal leaks, particularly at the output shaft seal and the seal between the transfer case and CVT. The leak allows transfer case fluid to escape, which can eventually cause the AWD coupling to overheat and fail if fluid level drops too low. The leak is often slow enough to go unnoticed until the AWD system malfunctions or a burning smell is detected.

This issue also affects: Nissan GT-R

Common Symptoms

  • Oil drip from center/rear of vehicle
  • Burning smell from under vehicle
  • AWD warning light on dashboard
  • Grinding noise from center of vehicle
  • AWD system not engaging

How to Fix

Replace the leaking transfer case seal(s). If caught early, seal replacement costs $300-600. If the transfer case has been run low on fluid, the coupling may need replacement ($800-1,500). In severe cases, the entire transfer case assembly needs replacement ($1,500-2,500). Check transfer case fluid level at every oil change as preventive maintenance.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan Murano transfer extension/output-housing oil seal 33142-4N200

    Cataloged for 2003-2014 Murano VQ35DE; use only on AWD and confirm VIN, diagram position and sealing surface.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 80W-90 GL-5 differential and transfer oil KE907-99932

    Confirm the exact model-year service-manual viscosity/specification and capacity; fluid does not repair a seal, bearing or low-fluid damage.

    Z1 Motorsports

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2003-2007 Nissan Murano, the first-generation Murano's VQ35DE 3.5L V6 is known for high oil consumption as it ages, often well before 100,000 miles. Owners report burning roughly a quart every 1,000-2,500 miles (worse in some cases). The cause is attributed to piston ring sealing problems against slightly tapered cylinder bores, producing blow-by; some owners also report oil pooling in the intake/PCV hoses. Left unchecked, low oil accelerates timing chain and bearing wear.

Common Symptoms

  • Frequent need to add oil between changes
  • Low oil level / oil light
  • Burning oil smell
  • Blue exhaust smoke on startup or acceleration
  • Oil in intake/PCV hoses

How to Fix

Monitor oil level frequently and top up between changes; replace/clean the PCV valve and oil-fouled hoses. Verified repairs include updated piston ring sets (an engine re-ring) or, in severe cases, engine replacement — both costly. Using the correct oil grade/viscosity and shorter change intervals slows consumption.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan PCV valve 11810-EA200

    Current replacement for the early VQ35DE PCV application; confirm VIN and supersession from 11810-8J101.

    Chapman Nissan Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2003-2007 Nissan Murano, exact Nissan communication 10039867 applies to 2003-2007 Murano and provides information for replacing the power-steering hose, matching the frozen first-generation hose-leak identity. It does not establish a universal leak point, replacement part number, failure rate or pump and steering-rack damage on every vehicle, so leak-source diagnosis and VIN fitment remain required.

Common Symptoms

  • fluid identity and highest wet point documented
  • pressure hose, return hose, pump and rack inspected separately
  • assist level and heat-source exposure assessed

How to Fix

Identify the fluid and highest wet point, inspect the pressure and return hoses, crimps, fittings, pump and steering rack, and verify fluid level and assist before replacement. Treat sudden assist loss or fluid contacting a heat source as a safety concern. Do not buy a pressure hose, return hose, pump, rack or fluid from this page; failed line, routing, supersession and VIN fitment must be established first.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • AM Autoparts 2003-2007 Murano FWD pump-to-rack pressure hose AM-1183949172

    Confirm drivetrain, routing, fittings and required seals; do not install on AWD.

    AM Autoparts
  • TRQ 2003-2007 Murano AWD upper/lower pump-to-rack pressure hose PSA36781

    Confirm drivetrain, switch port, routing, fittings and seal/hardware contents; do not install on FWD.

    1A Auto
  • Genuine Nissan power steering fluid 999MP-AG000P

    Verify required quantity and the model-year service procedure.

    NissanParts.cc

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano, the Murano A/C compressor clutch is prone to failure, particularly on the first and second generation models. The clutch relay, clutch coil, or the compressor clutch bearing can fail, resulting in no A/C cooling. Symptoms often start with intermittent A/C operation — cooling works sometimes but not others — before progressing to complete failure. A seized compressor clutch bearing will produce a constant squealing noise with the A/C off.

This issue also affects: Nissan 370Z

Common Symptoms

  • A/C blows warm air intermittently
  • A/C stops cooling completely
  • Squealing noise from engine bay
  • A/C clutch not engaging
  • Burning rubber smell with A/C on

How to Fix

If only the clutch coil has failed, it can be replaced separately ($100-200 parts + $150-250 labor). If the clutch bearing is seized, the compressor assembly typically needs replacement ($400-800 for aftermarket compressor, $300-500 labor). The system needs to be evacuated and recharged ($100-150). Replace the receiver drier when replacing the compressor.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Nissan 2003-2007 Murano A/C compressor clutch 92660-CA01C

    Confirm VIN and non-returnability.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 2008-2014 Murano A/C compressor clutch 92660-JP00B

    Confirm VIN and installed compressor.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan Value Advantage 2003-2006 Murano A/C compressor K2600-CA01C

    Confirm VIN and K2600-CA01C supersession.

    NissanPartsDeal
  • Genuine Nissan 2008-2014 Murano A/C compressor 92600-JP01C

    Confirm VIN, oil charge and refrigerant-system procedure.

    NissanPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,300

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2003-2020 Nissan Murano VQ35DE, the Murano VQ35DE is prone to premature catalytic converter failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The Bank 1 (firewall side) converter typically fails first. Contributing factors include the engine's tendency toward oil consumption, which poisons the catalyst, and heat soak from the converter's close proximity to the engine. Failed converters trigger emission codes and can cause reduced power and failed emissions tests.

This issue also affects: Infiniti FX35, Infiniti G35, Nissan 350Z

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light with P0420/P0430
  • Rotten egg or sulfur smell
  • Reduced engine power
  • Failed emissions test
  • Rattling noise from under hood

How to Fix

Replace the failed catalytic converter(s). OEM converters are very expensive ($1,500-2,500 each). Quality aftermarket CARB-compliant converters cost $400-800. Address any oil consumption issues before or during converter replacement to prevent repeat failure. Walker, Eastern Catalytic, and MagnaFlow make reliable aftermarket replacements.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:SPINDLE

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano, INFINITI QX60, 2021 Nissan GT-R, INFINITI QX50, and Q50 vehicles. The front steering knuckle or rear axle housing may have insufficient strength due to improper heat-treatment.

Campaign #21V40200027/05/2021

STEERING:LINKAGES

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Nissan Murano vehicles. The left and/or right-hand transverse link may not have been manufactured correctly, which could result in it separating from the ball joint.

Campaign #21V17000011/03/2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Nissan Murano problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2004 Nissan Murano has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Judder, Slipping, and Premature Failure, Transfer Case Seal Leak (AWD Models), VQ35DE 3.5L Excessive Oil Consumption. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Nissan Murano reliable?

The 2004 Nissan Murano has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: CVT Transmission Judder, Slipping, and Premature Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Nissan Murano problems?

Repair costs for known Nissan Murano issues range from $250 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Judder, Slipping, and Premature Failure, typically costs $4,000-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2003-2019 Nissan Murano CVT Transmission Judder, Slipping, and Premature Failure?

Third-generation Muranos equipped with Nissan's JATCO continuously variable transmission (CVT) commonly develop juddering/shuddering on light acceleration, hesitation, lag, overheating, and outright failure, frequently before 100,000 miles. Nissan acknowledged the judder via TSB… Repairs typically run $4,000-$8,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano Transfer Case Seal Leak (AWD Models)?

AWD-equipped Muranos are prone to transfer case seal leaks, particularly at the output shaft seal and the seal between the transfer case and CVT. The leak allows transfer case fluid to escape, which can eventually cause the AWD coupling to overheat and fail if fluid level drops t… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #19V65400012/09/2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.

Campaign #19V80700008/11/2019

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.

Campaign #18V60100007/09/2018

+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2003-2007 Nissan Murano VQ35DE 3.5L Excessive Oil Consumption?

The first-generation Murano's VQ35DE 3.5L V6 is known for high oil consumption as it ages, often well before 100,000 miles. Owners report burning roughly a quart every 1,000-2,500 miles (worse in some cases). The cause is attributed to piston ring sealing problems against slightl… Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2007 Nissan Murano High-Pressure Power Steering Hose Leak (1st Gen)?

Exact Nissan communication 10039867 applies to 2003-2007 Murano and provides information for replacing the power-steering hose, matching the frozen first-generation hose-leak identity. It does not establish a universal leak point, replacement part number, failure rate or pump and… Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2014 Nissan Murano A/C Compressor Clutch Failure?

The Murano A/C compressor clutch is prone to failure, particularly on the first and second generation models. The clutch relay, clutch coil, or the compressor clutch bearing can fail, resulting in no A/C cooling. Symptoms often start with intermittent A/C operation — cooling work… Repairs typically run $250-$1,300. Severity: medium.

What is the 2003-2020 Nissan Murano Premature Catalytic Converter Failure?

The Murano VQ35DE is prone to premature catalytic converter failure, often between 80,000-120,000 miles. The Bank 1 (firewall side) converter typically fails first. Contributing factors include the engine's tendency toward oil consumption, which poisons the catalyst, and heat soa… Repairs typically run $500-$2,500. Severity: medium.