Nissan Murano 2005 and earlier

junebug56

Thanks for the comments! How is the wind noise on the freeway?? I noticed very little @ 80mph, but was curious what others have found. Are the cloth seats comfy on long distance trips?? I have a daughter in Ohio, 20 hrs away, and was wondering if anyone had made a "road trip". Usually I opt for leather, but the cloth seats on the Murano were so comfy, I felt they would be even more comfy. My son stated he thought the cloth would insulate any possible rattles more than the leather. Sweet car!!!

roadrunner70

anyone have any suggestion to the following issue: i need to power the brake lock out solenoid with the back up light circuit so the brakes on my boat trailer don't lock in reverse. i tapped into the correct color wire for the back up lights, but i don't get a 12 volt power reading when the back up lights are energized (this worked perfectly on my 2002 toytota highlander). my understanding is that some of the circuits on this vehicle are negative switched. anyone know about this?? thanks for the help

spseps

i have a 2002 odyssey ex and a 2003 murano sl. i have had no trouble at all with the murano. it is quieter, handles better and generally fells like a more stable car than the odyssey. odyssey has much more storage room and better gas mileage and at 44000 miles is in the shop for transmission problem. honda is paying for the repair. on long trips, the honda seems less tiring for some reason, but the nissan is way more fun to drive. just some impressions to consider.

mkinson

Road and Tracks 'Charting the Changes' for 2004 indicates that the 2004 Murano is getting a new AWD system.
Does anyone have information regarding why there was a need for a new system, e.g., what was wrong with the old one?

lmacmil

No details but a new design doesn't mean there was anything wrong with the old one. They may have found a better way to split front to rear torque, changed the max speed at which the torque is evenly split front to rear, etc. The change may be relatively minor but the marketing types want to call it new to make prospective buyers think it's really improved over the previous version.

It's interesting that there's nothing on the Nissannews site about a new AWD system. They only mention manual shift mode on the SE and 10 way power seat with power lumbar support. Maybe C&D was wrong.

lumbar

Perhaps they're going to full time AWD?

dweiser

That was my guess too lumbar, FWD and full-time AWD models available, maybe.

dmmakoski

I think it's a mis-print from C&D. Several people on other Murano boards have the 2004 model and there is no new drive system (FWD or AWD).

bhoward99

I have had my Murano since Feb, 2003. Does any one know or has anyone looked into getting an updated Navigation DVD ?

I live in Raleigh, NC, and we have had a lot of new road and highway construction that has been
completed in the last couple of years, and I would like to get an updated DVD, that is if the cost is reasonable.

dklanecky

for Nissan-Infiniti products are only available from Zenrin:

http://zenrin.com/

Version 6.2 is available for ~$185.00!!

They have yet to answer my e-mail inquiry about whether or not I can make a "back-up" of my DVD for archival purposes (that will work in my Murano).

I'm a tad bit uncomfortable paying that much and not being able to have a backup disc.

lmacmil

I wonder if anyone has experienced the steering problem that both Consumer Reports and Car & Driver have reported? Basically you run out of assist in low speed parking manuevers. CR perceived it as a big enough issue that they are not recommending the Murano even though it is one of their highest scoring mid-size SUVs.

dklanecky

I have a 2003 Murano SE AWD with 7800 miles on it.

I'm not sure what consumer reports is talking about for the "steering power assist" problem but I personally haven't experienced any issues with the steering, either at low speed or otherwise.

I wonder what kind of manuvers you have to do in order to replicate what they say the issue is? Is it just simply changing direction quickly at low speeds, or something else?

lmacmil

CR says of the steering "it can momentarily become stiff in certain conditions." They describe it more fully in a sidebar which I don't have a copy of. It was Motor Trend rather than C&D that said "We did run out of steering boost sometimes during quick turns at slow speeds."

Apparently, every driver doesn't experience this issue.

r22549

When I test drove one about 3 weeks ago I ran into the issue. Car was great on the road. When I drove back and went into the dealers lot and was going under 5 miles an hour as I turned the car to back into a spot the steering all of a sudden felt like I had no power steering. I mentioned this to the dealer and he indicated it was typical of all vehicles that drove this tight. I since learned differently. Now it didn't bother me to the point I wouldn't buy one, but it might discourage my wife...

gerapau

Happens to me quite often when driving slowly (usually turning into or out of a parking spot). Just as other have described it, it feels like a reduction in steering boost. Like the steering gets much heavier for a second or two. Usually happens when you steer in one direction and then rapidly steer in the other direction. I can easily reproduce it but since it only happens at low speeds I haven't had it looked at.

dklanecky

Ok, I was able to reproduce the "issue".

I had to change direction quickly at very low speed in order for it too feel "really heavy", almost like the boost dissapeared.

I guess since I'd hadn't experienced it in the first 7,900 miles (without trying to do it on purpose), it's probably not that big a deal?

I wonder if Nissan can fix something like this, retroactively?

blavelle

SUVs now selling as many 2WD as 4WD even out here in the midwest. Any thoughts as to why I should save some $ and buy a 2WD Murano? I like it better than Trailblazer that hubby wants.

dweiser

Gee, one's a high style, quality, quiet, comfortable, near luxury vehicle and the other is, well, to be kind, a GM Trailblazer.

lmacmil

Look at Consumer Reports reliability ratings on TB vs. Murano. There's one big data point in favor of the Nissan. Who's the primary driver? If it's you, then it should be your call. The TB is a truck. The Murano is an SUV on a car platform. If 90% of your driving is on pavement like most of us, you will probably prefer the Murano. 2WD vs AWD depends on how much snow you get.

tw_murano

I've been in my Murano AWD for about a month...changed from a 4x4 shift on the fly Durango. I've noticed the AWD when accelerating from a stop sign/light on wet Chicago pavement (nice & slick grime)-unlike the rear wheels that slipped every time on the Durango, the AWD system keeps the tires from slipping at all. If you won't have situations with slick pavement or snow or a front wheel drive car in the past suited your needs, you probably don't need AWD. It sure is nice to have when you need it though.

dklanecky

Here's another reason to avoid the TB. If your in an accident with it, your chance of serious injury are significantly higher than in the Murano.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/NCAP/Cars/2003SUVs.html

monkstermann

Hello. This is my first post for awhile since SHOTimes FAQ used to be more mainstream (Yeah I had a Taurus BUT it had a Yamaha engine and man did it go! for 235,000 miles no less).
Anyway here goes: I live in the Palm Springs area and trying the buy vs lease issue.
Anyone have any experience with "The Lease Outlet" I think they are in Manhattan Beach or somewhere like that.
On the "Buy" side am also considering Toyota Sequoia because they come more loaded and have a $1K discount and have a travel trailer to tow, though infrequently. Anybody out there have any experience towing with Murano?
Thanks

bowke28

tows 3500 lbs. easily. the CVT makes it smooth.

my question is why dont you look at the pathfinder armada? its the same size as the sequoia, and tows 150% of what the toyota tows.

my next question is if you dont need all that power, you should be comparing the murano with the highlander rather than the sequoia. apples-to-apples.

monkstermann

Hey bowke28: Thanks! Do I understand that you have the tow pkg & actually tow? If so are you 2wd or 4wd? Armada is so new can't see being discounted yet & really aren't fond of the "in your face" design. Much more attracted to the crossover niche of Murano, Tourang etc.
I'll look into the Highlander w/V8 too.

Thanks,

bowke28

i sell nissans...dont own one. my last murano buyer got a SL AWD, and towed a 3000 lb. boat to florida from indiana thru mountains and such. they said it was the smoothest towing they'd ever experienced with this boat. (coming from a 4runner)

highlander doesnt offer a v8.

bowke28

on any of the very few remaining 2003 muranos, the offer is 0.9% up to 36 months, and 2.9% up to 60 months until 2003s are gone.

monkstermann

Thanks for all the info, especially the towing part. Just not sure how the CVT will perform with a trailer behind it if you know what I mean!
(I knew the Highlander didn't offer a V8; dunno why I mispoke; prob. pre-alhyzmers (sp)!)

Re: The 0.9% on the remaining 03s. Don't think that's such a great deal, given that they are already depreciated a year since the 04s are already out. What say you?

ek01

What the options on snow tires for the Murano? Anybody have any experience in the snow with the stock all seasons?

bowke28

on a car that costs ~$30k as opposed to ~5% is a difference of thousands.

u1dery

Anyone had this installed yet on a Murano? Mine is being done today, a company who does nothing but this installation is doing it. I am nervous after reading some of the comments made when people installed tow hitches and encountered electrical problems. I am so protective of the Murano, last month the dealership installed a new driver seat cushion because when I bought the vehicle in June the leather was peeling! I have always had leather interior in my vehicles and this was no exception. Then the rear window was replaced (make sure you always check for small rocks and debris falling in to the wiper blade) I did not and it scratched the window (first time using the blade) I was not a happy person. I have to say writing to Nissan of No America helped in this BUT my dealership has been terrific and does want to do all they can to make sure my experiences with them are memorable. So far I have to admit I would definately recommend doing business with them to anyone who asked.
I do have to ask about the radio reception (FM) it is horrible, is there something that can be done about that? ANYONE PLEASE REPLY at the following Breslend@aol.com.
Thank You,

dmmakoski

See your dealer

NTB03059
 
IF YOU CONFIRM: A 2003 Murano has poor radio reception (station fades and/or static is present) for AM and/or FM modes, AND Both the CD player and cassette tape player operate correctly. See this bulletin for further detail.

jfavour

I love the look and reviews of the Murano, but I am about to have a third child. The kids will be 4 yrs, 2 yrs, and newborn at birth. Can three child car seats fit in the rear seat of the Murano comfortably? Anyone tried it?

dweiser

I know the backs of the Murano's rear seat fold forward 60/40 BUT can anyone tell me if the front passenger seat also folds forward? And if it does, where's the lever to allow it?
It sure would make carrying long cargo much easier.
Thanks.

dklanecky

In mine it doesn't go forward far enough to go flat (I have power seats both driver and passenger).

What it does do it fold backwards flat, which really suprised me the first time I did it. The headrest is the only thing that keeps it from going completely flat, but it's very close.

It's a pretty large, almost completely flat space with that seat down (reclined) all the way.

dweiser

Yesterday I bought a 10’ piece of lumber and while it did fit inside fairly easily, it would have been even easier if the front passenger seat folded.
Now I know it folds (reclines) backwards!

bowke28

yes, they can...the back seat of the murano is surprisingly big and roomy...we had 3 adults, all medium built, on a 3 hour ride from louisville to nashville and back yesterday, and although snug, it was not uncomfortable.

maineguy

I have a 2003 AWD Muran SE. I had an auto start professionally installed locally and it works perfectly. No glitches and I love it. It also includes an additional alarm system, I can use the OEM alarm if I wish, but why bother carrying two key fobs?

The auto-start/alarm system does everything the OEM system does, with the exception of automatic seat adjustment from the remote. I believe the brand I chose is Avitar, or something like that.

As to the poor FM reception. I have had the correction done by my dealer from the TSB. It makes no difference. The AM reception is wonderful, better than most, and always has been. The FM reception is awful, worse than some cheap portable radios. I have brought this problem to my local car stereo experts, the same people who installed my auto-start/alarm. They checked it out and believe that the OEM antenna is designed and installed without an appropriate FM ground plane. Having had experience with auto radio installation I agree with this. We think we may be able to correct this by attaching a better ground strap to the antenna. Unfortunately there is no after market antenna yet available for the Murano. We did try a Volkswagen antenna, mast, which is longer, but it made no difference. This confirms that it is a mounting problem, not a length problem in the antenna coil.

I have tried to contact Nissan about this problem, but they insist that this is the way all Murano radios operate and that nothing is wrong. It is true all Muranos have this problem, which exactly why it IS a design flaw. I wish I could talk to an engineer designer at Nissan, and not just the uniformed customer service representatives that answer their phones. Same for the below difficulty.

I have also found that the dash lights are poorly designed. They are too bright, even when lowered to the lowest setting. When on the lowest (most dim) setting, the dash lights are still too bright, yet I can barely see the radio and climate control lights, and the "PRNDL" shift lever lights go out completely. Again I have called Nissan explaining this is a design flaw, and again they say that it is normal. Yes, it is normal, and should be fixed so it does not happen.

Trying to explain these technical glitches to these silly customer service representatives is an exercise in frustration. They do not understand any of these basic details or admit that there could be a problem with one of their products.

Hope this helps you all.

bowke28

as much as i understand your position, the CSR people at nissan have a job. number one, log the problem stated and give it to the right people. number two, calm the customer down to buy time for the right people to research it.

there is no possible way for them to fix your problem over the phone, and the engineers dont have time to talk to every swingin' joe that calls.

also, you wont get a "quick fix" over the phone, since they dont want you correcting a problem on your own and making it worse.

be patient. the fixes will come. they may be in a recall...but your problems are not drivability issues, so it will likely come with a change at the factory for future models. these changes will then be available at dealership service depts.

brelan

Not all Muranos have a problem with Fm reception. Our radio works fine, fm and am.

maineguy

The only reason you may report good FM reception is because the stations you listen to are local and you are not trying to pick up any stations that may be on the fringe area. Stations that will come in clearly on most other FM radios, that may be considered fringe stations, low power, or more than 20 miles from your location, are no easily received on the Murano radio..

The Murano FM reception is notorious for being poor, you just happen to not need a good receiver for your location.

maineguy

Thank for the input about Nissan CSR's. The job of a customer service rep however should be to help solve a problem, not merely say that the problem does not exist and it is the customer's imagination. If indeed they believe it is an imaginary problem, a CSR should work to prove it is imaginary, and not merely try to placate a customer with "there there" remarks like one might do to a child.

dklanecky

I think the dash lighting on the Murano is great as is (I have 9,000 miles on my Murano).

The contrast in light level between the main dash (the critical stuff) and the radio climate controls, etc.(the other stuff) is IMO, perfect.

It avoids being too bright so that it is a distraction from the main gauge light level, but is still perfectly visible when needed.

I've had a lot of people with very diverse auto ownership backgrounds ride along and I've never had one mention of complain at all about not being able to see or adjust any of the "other" controls when we're traveling.

Maybe this is why Nissan refuses to acknowledge your personal complaint as a "design defect"?

Other people have different opinions than yours as to design. I for one think the Murano is one of the best overall designs (for a first year vehicle) I've ever seen (in it's price range).

Is it perfect? Absolutely not! I'd like it if they lighted the cruise/radio controls on the steering wheel, for example, but Nissan doesn't do that on any vehicles.

just4fun2

Nissan should design the instrument lights to be of similar illumination or you should be able to control the screen seperatly. When the brightness of one part of the dash is not similar to the other parts it can be disturbing to the focusing of the eye.

The cruise/radio control on the steering wheel should be illuminated, no excuse for not doing that. My wife and I have our separate cars, so we don't drive each others car much, but when we do have to drive the others car I don't want to be fumbling in the dark for the cruise switch.

brelan

Why would you insist that I have poor FM reception and only listen to local stations within a 20 mile range. I live in Toronto and routinely listen to Buffalo stations. I also often make a 2 1/2 hour trip north of Toronto while listening to the same station. I'm sure none of this is in the 20 mile range. In fact, on reflection, our Murano has an excellent radio. The instrument lights are also great. We also pull a trailer, often through very hilly terrain. Again, the Murano pulls it beautifully.
Finally, I was recently rear ended and guess what? My Murano held up wonderfully. The bumper remained intact with the hitch taking most of the impact. The other car, a New Yorker, was totaled. I guess you can tell that I think this is a fabulous car. I've even been known to give it a pat when walking by.

dweiser

Trade in that Murano that you obviously don't like. Maybe get yourself a nice VW. Then you'd have something real to complain about!! Oh, I live in a very rural area and my Murano's FM reception is just fine thank you.

maineguy

The Murano is great, and I am very happy with it, with the exception of the two problems I have addressed in this forum. I too have traveled to Toronto and Buffalo in my Murano, and have no problem with high power FM mainstream stations. The flat terrain of that area also makes FM reception much easier in general. The signals from the Buffalo stations you listen to only have to travel over a lake. Low power and distant stations, or station broadcasting over a hilly terrain are another story. I no longer receive stations on my Murano that were easily picked up on the Camry I traded in for this vehicle. stations that come in clearly on almost any other vehicle radio currently on the market. If you have had better luck with your FM, more power to you, but I will bet that you have the same flaw, and merely have just not noticed it.

I have researched this problem extensively. This included testing FM reception on with various other Muranos from my dealer's lot, and they all exhibit the same problems as what I have experienced. This has been noted by my dealer's service department, who agrees it is a problem with Muranos that needs to be corrected by Nissan. I have also addressed this FM problem with various after market auto radio specialists who have confirmed that they have found the same difficulty with all Muranos they have worked with, about 20 of them to be precise. There is no FM ground plane designed into the Murano's antenna.

I have done the same checks about the low level of the dash and instrument lights and there lack of visibility in all locations other than the driver's instrument cluster. My dealer's service department agrees that this is a design flaw that Nissan needs to correct.

Now if only Nissan would accept that they have to glitches to fix, and come up with the fixes, all would be well.

The Murano is a good vehicle, but for the price paid for it, these annoyances caused by poor design should be corrected.

brelan

I agree with dweiser. Trade in your Murano and get something else to complain about. Maybe you haven't been north of Toronto. It isn't flat terrain at all. Also, I'm from Misssissippi; about as rural as you can get and the FM reception is great. You must just have a lemon.

jhue

>yes, they can...the back seat of the murano is
>surprisingly big and roomy...we had 3 adults,
>all medium built, on a 3 hour ride from
>louisville to nashville and back yesterday, and
>although snug, it was not uncomfortable.

Did you even read the question???

He was asking about car seats. Do you think every car seat is narrower than the three adults you had in your Murano?

You can't get three Britax Huskys side-by-side in a GMC Yukon, much less a Murano. So the question that must be asked is, what are the three child seats being used? It might be possible if they're all smaller seats designed for children under 40lbs, but unlikely if two or more is a large booster seat for kids up to 80lbs, like a Britax Husky. The question is impossible to answer without knowing more about the three car seats.

bowke28

you made an assumption about brelan, and then complained about people posting things they dont know about...get a life, dude.

jhue...my estimation was on the fact that 3 grown men, one 5'9" ~200 lbs., another 5'4" ~175, and another ~6' ~200 lbs. fit comfortably. im a parent, and am familiar with the size of carseats. based on my experience, they wouldnt take up any more room than the 3 of us did, and 3 carseats would similarly fit, albeit snugly.

the murano is a wider car than you might think. check it out for yourself.

tidester

... remain civil! :-)

tidester, host