Crossover Nissan Murano first generation (body Z50) debuted in 2002 and immediately attracted attention with its unusual design, spacious interior and powerful V6-engine. The 2003 model became the first full-fledged batch for the Russian market, and over two decades it managed to acquire an army of both loyal fans and disappointed owners. In this article we have collected real reviews o Murano Z50 2003, analyzed typical problems and highlighted key points that you should pay attention to before purchasing.

Feature Murano is a combination of off-road ambitions with the comfort of a sedan. The car is built on a platform Nissan FF-L, common with Altima And Maxima, but with all-wheel drive Attesa E-TS and increased ground clearance. However, not everything is so smooth: many owners are faced with electronics problems, suspension corrosion and high cost of spare parts. Next, we’ll look at what they say about the car after 20 years of operation, and whether it’s worth buying today Murano 2003.

Design and comfort: why the 2003 Murano still looks modern

One of the main trump cards Nissan Murano Z50 - this is unique design, which even after 20 years does not look outdated. The car was designed under the guidance of a designer Shiro Nakamura, who later worked on GT-R And 370Z. The body with smooth lines, an aggressive front end and a high seating position stood out from competitors like Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

Owners often note in reviews:

  • 🚗 Spacious salon — despite the compact external dimensions (length 4.75 m), there is enough space inside even for tall passengers. Trunk volume 480 l Easily transformable thanks to folding rear seats.
  • 🪑 Comfortable chairs with good lateral support, which are suitable for long trips. Top trim levels include leather trim and heating.
  • 🎨 Quality materials — the plastic is soft to the touch, no creaking even after 200+ thousand km. But there is a nuance: over time, the leather on the steering wheel may crack.
  • 🔊 Good sound insulation for its time - on the highway you can’t hear the wind or noise from the wheels, but the engine VQ35DE still makes itself felt with a roar at high revs.

Among the disadvantages of the design, the owners highlight:

  • 🚪 Inconvenient rear doors — open too wide, which creates problems in tight parking lots.
  • 👀 Blind Spots due to the thick pillars and high rear end. You have to get used to it or install additional mirrors.
  • 💡 Poor interior lighting — standard lamps are dim, many people change them to LEDs.
⚠️ Attention: Upon examination Murano 2003 be sure to check the condition hatch in the ceiling (if there is one). The mechanism often sours and the seals leak, which leads to flooding of the interior. Repair costs 15–25 thousand rubles..

VQ35DE engine: reliability, fuel consumption and typical problems

Nissan Murano 2003 equipped with a single engine - petrol V6 3.5 l VQ35DE power 245 hp (in the European version - 234 hp). This motor is known for its reliability, but only with proper maintenance. In reviews, owners praise it for:

  • 💪 Endurance - with regular oil changes (every 7–10 thousand km) and using high-quality consumables, the engine runs easily 300–400 thousand km without major repairs.
  • 🚀 Acceleration dynamics — with a machine gun RE4F04B Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 8.5 sec, which is great for an early 2000s crossover.
  • 🔧 Ease of repair - spare parts for VQ35DE widespread because they were installed on Nissan 350Z, Infiniti G35 and other models.

However, there is also weak points, which owners warn about:

Problem Reason Repair cost (2026) How to avoid
Oily appetite Worn oil scraper rings, stuck piston rings from 50 thousand rubles. (decarbonization) until 150 thousand rubles. (capital) Change oil every 7 thousand km, use 5W-30 or 5W-40 from Mobil 1, Liqui Moly
Leaking valve seals Overheating or old rubber 15–25 thousand rubles. (replacement of oil seals + valve adjustment) Monitor the oil level, avoid overheating
Problems with phase regulators Worn gears or solenoids 20–40 thousand rubles. (replacement kit) Listen to the engine running when cold - knocking or noise indicates a problem
Troubleshooting, misfires Failure of coils or spark plugs 5–15 thousand rubles. (replacement coils Hitachi or Denso) Change spark plugs every 30–40 thousand km, use NGK or Denso Iridium

Fuel consumption is another hot topic in reviews. By passport Murano 2003 consumes 12.5 l/100 km in a mixed cycle, but the real numbers are higher:

  • 🏙️ City — 16–18 l/100 km (depending on traffic jams and driving style).
  • 🛣️ Route — 10–12 l/100 km at speed 90–110 km/h.
  • ❄️ Winter - consumption can increase up to 20–22 l/100 km due to warm-ups and all-wheel drive.
⚠️ Attention: If fuel consumption suddenly increases by 2–3 liters, check oxygen sensors And catalysts. On Murano 2003 they often fail after 150 thousand km, which leads to an over-enriched mixture. Replacing catalysts will cost 30–50 thousand rubles., many people put fakes or remove them completely (but this is illegal!).
📊 Which engine do you consider the most reliable in the Nissan line?
  • VQ35DE (3.5 V6)
  • QR25DE (2.5 L4)
  • MR20DE (2.0 L4)
  • VR38DETT (3.8 V6 Turbo)
  • Other

Gearbox RE4F04B: weak points and resource

Nissan Murano 2003 was completed only 4-speed automatic RE4F04B - the same box as Nissan X-Trail T30 or Pathfinder R50. In reviews, owners praise it for its smooth switching and reliability, but only if the maintenance regulations are followed.

Basic advantages of the box:

  • ⚙️ Resource - with regular oil changes (ATF) the box is moving 250–300 thousand km without repair.
  • 🔄 Smooth shifts — no jerks or delays if the oil is fresh.
  • 💰 Inexpensive repairs compared to modern CVTs. Replacing clutches costs 20–30 thousand rubles..

But there is also typical problems:

  • 🛢️ Sensitivity to oil - if you fill it with a cheap one ATF or not changing it on time, the box begins to kick and overheat.
  • 🔥 Overheating — when towing or driving in traffic jams, the oil temperature rises, which leads to wear of the clutches.
  • 🚨 Failure of solenoids - after 150 thousand km Shocks may appear when switching.

Maintenance recommendations:

Change oil ATF every 40–50 thousand km (use Nissan Matic-J or Mobil ATF 3309)

Install an additional oil cooler when driving in hot climates or with a trailer

Avoid sudden starts and prolonged slipping

Check the oil level every 10 thousand km (if there is a shortage, add only original ATF)

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If the box has already started kick or blunt, do not delay with diagnosis. Often the problem is solved by changing the oil and filter (5–8 thousand rubles.), but if you ignore the symptoms, major repairs will be required (50–80 thousand rubles.).

Suspension and steering: what breaks first

Suspension Nissan Murano Z50 built according to the classical scheme: in front - MacPherson struts, behind - multi-lever. In reviews, owners note that the suspension is soft and comfortable, but parts wear out faster than competitors (for example, Toyota RAV4). Main problems:

Front suspension:

  • 🔧 Struts and shock absorbers - nursed 80–120 thousand km. Signs of wear: knocking on bumps, body swaying.
  • 🔩 Support bearings - they start to creak after 60–80 thousand km. Replacement costs 3–5 thousand rubles. per side.
  • 🛑 Ball joints - rarely, but fail after 100 thousand km. Symptom: play in the steering.

Rear suspension:

  • 🔄 Silent blocks of levers - crack after 100 thousand km, which leads to the car pulling to the side.
  • 🛞 Wheel bearings - they buzz after 120–150 thousand km. Replacing one bearing costs 5–8 thousand rubles..
  • 🔩 Springs - may sag over time, especially if the car is often overloaded.

Steering on Murano 2003 — power steering rack. Main problems:

  • 💧 Laths are leaking - appears after 150 thousand km. Repair costs 15–25 thousand rubles..
  • 🔊 Knock on the rack - often caused by wear of the bushings. Eliminated by replacing the repair kit (3–5 thousand rubles.).
  • 🛢️ Power steering pump hum - indicates low fluid level or bearing wear.
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing struts or shock absorbers, the car begins to “float” at a speed higher 100 km/h, check wheel alignment. On Murano Suspension geometry is easy to lose during repairs, and incorrect angles lead to uneven tire wear and poor handling.
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Upon purchase Murano 2003 be sure to check the condition subframe. On cars with more than 150 thousand km it often rusts where it is attached to the body. Welding repairs will cost 10–20 thousand rubles., but if the subframe is very rotten, you will have to look for a used part (15–30 thousand rubles.).

All-wheel drive Attesa E-TS: how it works and what breaks

Nissan Murano 2003 equipped with all-wheel drive system Attesa E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split). In normal mode, the car drives on front-wheel drive, and when slipping, the rear axle engages. In reviews, owners praise the system for:

  • ❄️ Good cross-country ability in snow — thanks to electronic control, road traction is better than that of single-wheel drive crossovers.
  • 🛣️ Stability on wet roads — All-wheel drive helps avoid drifts.
  • 🔄 Automatic connection - no need to manually switch modes, like on the old ones Nissan Terrano.

However, there is also weak points:

  • 🛠️ Wear of the connection coupling - after 150–200 thousand km Vibration or jerking may occur when starting. Repair costs 20–40 thousand rubles..
  • 🔋 Problems with ABS sensors — if they fail, the all-wheel drive system is disabled. Diagnosis is worth it 1–2 thousand rubles..
  • 🛢️ Leaking transfer case seals - leads to oil getting into the coupling. Symptom: crunching sound when turning.

Owners in reviews advise:

  • 🔧 Regularly (every 60 thousand km) check the oil level in the transfer case and rear axle gearbox.
  • 🚗 Avoid sudden starts with slipping - this kills the all-wheel drive clutch.
  • ❄️ In winter, warm up the car before driving so that the oil in the drive becomes less viscous.
How to check all-wheel drive operation on Murano 2003?

1. Place the machine on a lift or inspection hole.

2. Start the engine and turn on Drive.

3. Ask an assistant to slowly press the gas, and see if the rear wheels rotate.

4. If the rear axle does not connect, check the clutch Attesa E-TS and ABS sensors.

Electronics and interior: what problems await the owner

Electronics are one of the most vulnerable places Nissan Murano 2003. In reviews, owners often complain about:

  • 🔋 Problems with the generator - after 150 thousand km may begin to charge the battery poorly. Symptom: light blinking Battery on the dashboard.
  • 🎛️ On-board computer glitches — sometimes the settings are reset or the fuel consumption is shown incorrectly.
  • 🔊 Audio system failure - radio tape recorder Bose (in top trim levels) often stops reading discs or makes wheezing noises.
  • 🚗 Sensor malfunctions — sensors most often break down ABS, oxygen And throttle position.

Typical interior problems:

  • 🪟 Power windows - stop working due to wear of the motors or oxidation of the contacts. Repairing one glass costs 3–5 thousand rubles..
  • 🪑 Heated seats - heating elements often burn out. Replacing the heating on one seat costs 5–8 thousand rubles..
  • 🌡️ Climate control - can only blow hot or cold air due to a faulty damper servo drive.

Electronics Tips:

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If the dashboard lights up Check Engine, don’t panic - in 60% of cases the problem is bad contact or worn out spark plugs. First, check the spark plugs and coils, and only then go for diagnostics.

Nissan Murano 2003 prices: is it worth buying today

Cost Nissan Murano Z50 2003 on the secondary market in 2026 ranges from 250 thousand rubles. to 500 thousand rubles., depending on condition and mileage. Here's what affects the price:

Parameter Low price (250–350 thousand rubles.) Average price (350–450 thousand rubles.) High price (450–500+ thousand rubles.)
Mileage 200–300 thousand km, often twisted 150–200 thousand km, confirmed by service history up to 150 thousand km, original mileage
Body condition Rust on arches, sills, trunk lid Small areas of corrosion, no through holes Clean body, treated with anticorrosive
Engine and gearbox The engine oil is black, the transmission is kicking The engine does not smoke, the transmission shifts smoothly Fresh oil and filters, maintenance receipts available
Salon Worn upholstery, non-functional electronics Clean interior, minor flaws (for example, cracks on the steering wheel) Perfect condition, leather without scuffs

Is it worth buying Murano 2003 today? The answer depends on your goals:

  • ✅ Worth it if:
    • Do you need spacious crossover with all-wheel drive for the family.
    • Are you ready to invest? 30–50 thousand rubles. per year for maintenance and minor repairs.
    • More important comfort and designthan efficiency.
  • ❌ Not worth it if:
    • Are you looking for economical car — fuel consumption and the cost of spare parts are stinging.
    • Do you need SUV — Murano More suitable for asphalt and light off-road use.
    • You're not ready to bother with electronics and corrosion.

Alternatives Murano 2003 on the secondary:

  • 🚙 Toyota RAV4 (XA30) - more reliable, but less comfortable.
  • 🚙 Honda CR-V (RD5) - more economical, but weaker in dynamics.
  • 🚙 Mitsubishi Outlander (CU2W) - cheaper to maintain, but worse sound insulation.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the 2003 Nissan Murano

🔧 What is the resource of the VQ35DE engine on Murano 2003?

With proper maintenance (oil change every 7–10 thousand km, the use of high-quality consumables) the engine passes easily 300–400 thousand km without major repairs. However, after 200 thousand km It may be necessary to replace valve seals, phase regulators or oil scraper rings. The main thing is to avoid overheating and monitor the oil level.

❄️ How does the Murano 2003 behave in winter?

Murano handles snow well thanks to all-wheel drive Attesa E-TS and high ground clearance (205 mm). However, there are nuances:

  • 🔋 The battery is rather weak for the frosts below -25°C - the starter may not turn over. It is recommended to install the battery with a capacity 70–75 Ah.
  • 🛞 Tires should not be wider 235/65 R18 - otherwise the car will “float” on ice.
  • 🚗 When starting in the cold, the first 1–2 minutes may burn Check Engine - this is normal for VQ35DE.
💰 How much does it cost to maintain a Murano 2003 per year?

When running 15–20 thousand km/year expenses will be:

  • 🛢️ Fuel — 60–80 thousand rubles. (at the price of gasoline 50 rub./l and consumption 14–16 l/100 km).
  • 🔧 TO — 20–30 thousand rubles. (oils, filters, pads, spark plugs).
  • 🚗 Repair — 30–50 thousand rubles. (depends on the condition of the machine).
  • 📄 Insurance (OSAGO + comprehensive insurance) — 15–25 thousand rubles..

Total: 125–185 thousand rubles/year.

🔧 Which spare parts for Murano 2003 are best to buy?

Recommended brands:

  • 🛢️ Oils: Mobil 1 5W-30 (engine), Nissan Matic-J (checkpoint), Motul Gear 300 (gearboxes).
  • 🔋 Battery: Varta Blue Dynamic or Bosch S5 (capacity 70–75 Ah).
  • 🚗 Brake pads: Brembo or Akebono.
  • 🔧 Plugs and coils: NGK Iridium And Denso.
  • 🛞 Shock absorbers: Kayaba or Monroe.

Avoid cheap Chinese analogues - they quickly fail and can damage other components.

🔍 How to check