When it comes to crossovers of the 2000s, Nissan Murano The 2004 model occupies a special place in the history of the automotive industry. This car became a real revolutionary, the first to introduce the concept of a “crossover coupe” to the world with smooth lines and aggressive design. While competitors were building angular and utilitarian SUVs, Japanese engineers decided to focus on style and comfort, creating a car that looked futuristic even decades after its release.
Whether you're considering purchasing this car or simply want to appreciate its evolution, a visual inspection remains key. Photos Nissan Murano 2004 allows you to examine in detail the condition of the body, the characteristic signs of restyling or its absence, as well as assess the level of preservation of the interior. In this article, we will not just look at the pictures, but also analyze the technical nuances that you should pay attention to when choosing a specific instance on the secondary market.
Exterior design and body features
First generation Nissan Murano (Z51) made a splash with its unique silhouette. Designers abandoned right angles in favor of streamlined shapes, which made the car look like a sports coupe, raised above the ground. Take a look at the front: the wide wing-shaped grille and elongated headlights with clear lenses create an aggressive yet elegant appearance. These are the details that make body design recognizable even in the flow of modern cars.
The side profile of the car is striking in its dynamics. The roof slopes gently towards the rear, forming a steep glass line that ends in a unique rear window. The rear bumper glass is the model's calling card, allowing you to see the space behind the car, which was an innovative solution for that time. Chrome moldings and large wheels with a diameter of 18 or 20 inches add status and high cost to the car.
The rear also deserves special attention. Wide lights connected by a chrome trim visually expand the body. The bumper has massive fog lamps and protective trims, emphasizing the off-road ambitions, although in reality it is only an imitation. When viewing photos, be sure to look for signs of repairs in the area rear arches and bumper, as this is an area of frequent damage when parking.
Interior and cabin ergonomics
Inside Nissan Murano The 2004 offers an atmosphere of premium comfort that was unavailable to many competitors in this class. The leather-trimmed seats have pronounced lateral support and a heating function, even in the basic trim levels. The leather-trimmed steering wheel with integrated multimedia controls ensures comfort on long journeys. Quality of materials the interior at that time was the standard for Japanese cars.
The center console features Nissan's signature "spaceship" style. The instrument panel is equipped with large analogue dials with red backlighting, which gives a sporty character. The multimedia system with screen and navigation (on top trims) was cutting-edge technology. Please note the condition plastic inserts — they are often subject to scratches and abrasions, which is noticeable in the photo of the interior.
Rear-seat space is spacious enough for average-sized passengers, although the slope of the roof may limit comfort for tall people. The luggage compartment holds about 450 liters of cargo, and with the seats folded down the volume increases to impressive values. An important element is the presence of a sunroof, which fills the interior with natural light. Headlining often suffers from sunburn, so check this parameter carefully.
The control ergonomics are thought out to the smallest detail. All controls are located within the driver's reach, which reduces fatigue. However, it is worth considering that some climate controls may be located low and be awkward to drive. Climate control system dual-zone, which allows you to adjust the temperature individually for the driver and passenger.
- First (Z51)
- Second (Z50)
- Third (Z52)
- Modern models
Technical characteristics and power units
With my heart Nissan Murano 2004 is a powerful 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine. This unit, known as VQ35DE, is characterized by high reliability and excellent dynamics. It produces 245 horsepower, which allows the crossover to accelerate to 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds. The engine is paired with a Jatco CVT, which provides a smooth ride, but requires special attention to maintenance.
The car's suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing road unevenness. Front independent MacPherson strut suspension and multi-link rear suspension provide excellent cornering stability. All-wheel drive system All-Mode 4x4 allows you to automatically redistribute torque between axles, improving cross-country ability in difficult conditions.
The braking system is equipped with ventilated discs on all wheels, which guarantees effective braking even when fully loaded. Power steering provides light steering at low speeds and precise control on the highway. It is important to monitor the condition rubber seals and seals, as their wear can lead to oil leaks.
Features of operation and maintenance
Owners Nissan Murano 2004 note that the main problem is the variator. The Jatco JF011E gearbox is sensitive to oil quality and overheating. It is necessary to regularly check the level and condition of the transmission fluid. Oil change in the variator should be carried out every 40-50 thousand kilometers to extend the life of the unit.
The VQ35DE engine also has its own nuances. A common problem is timing chain stretching and failure of the CVTCS variable valve timing system. It is also worth monitoring the condition of the ignition coils and spark plugs, since a malfunction of one of them can lead to uneven engine operation. Cooling system requires regular checking for antifreeze leaks.
The car body is not completely galvanized, so the risk of corrosion on the sills and arches is high, especially in regions with aggressive winter chemicals. It is recommended to regularly inspect the bottom and apply protective compounds. Paintwork It is thin enough that small chips can quickly lead to rust.
☑️ Checklist before purchasing
What is the All-Mode 4x4 system?
The All-Mode 4x4 system allows the driver to select four-wheel drive modes: 2WD for fuel economy, Auto for automatic torque distribution and Lock for forced locking of the clutch at low speeds in difficult conditions.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a car with a CVT, be sure to test drive it for jerks and kicks when changing gears. This may indicate wear on the belt or valve body, which will lead to costly repairs.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Engine size | 3498 cm³ | Atmospheric V6 |
| Power | 245 hp | At 5800 rpm |
| Drive type | Full (4WD) | All-Mode coupling |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12-14 l/100 km | Depending on driving style |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 7.8 sec | For front wheel drive version |
Regular maintenance of the variator and monitoring the condition of the VQ35DE engine is the key to the long service of the first generation Nissan Murano.
Problem areas and typical faults
Despite the overall reliability, Nissan Murano 2004 has a number of typical “sores” that need to be taken into account. One of the most common problems is the failure of the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, which can lead to a sudden engine stop. It is also worth paying attention to the operation of the interior ventilation system, since the dampers often break due to fragile plastic.
The car's electrical system also requires attention. A common occurrence is oxidation of contacts in the fuse box and malfunction of parking sensors. Window lifters may jam due to wear on the cables or the lift mechanism. Checking all electronic systems upon purchase is required.
The suspension is not without its shortcomings. Silent blocks of levers and shock absorbers have a limited resource and require replacement every 80-100 thousand kilometers. It is also worth checking the condition of the steering ends and rods, as their wear affects handling and safety. Brake calipers may turn sour, especially if the car has been parked for a long time.
Tips for choosing and purchasing
When choosing Nissan Murano 2004, it is important to pay attention to the service history. Having a service book with notes on regular oil changes in the engine and variator is a big plus. Avoid cars that show signs of tuning or makeshift repairs, as this may indicate hidden problems.
Inspect the body for signs of repainting and rust. Use a thickness gauge to check the paint layer. Pay special attention to the sills, arches and bottom. Condition of the paintwork directly affects the value of the vehicle and future repair costs.
Check the operation of all options: climate control, heated seats, sunroof and multimedia system. Take the time to drive the car on different types of roads to evaluate the performance of the suspension and transmission. Test drive is the best way to identify hidden defects before purchasing.
Before purchasing, be sure to order diagnostics of the variator from a specialized service. The cost of diagnostics is disproportionately small compared to the cost of replacing the transmission.
⚠️ Attention: Do not buy a car if the owner cannot provide documents on maintenance. The absence of a CVT oil change record is a red flag indicating a high risk of failure.
Results and prospects of ownership
Nissan Murano The 2004 remains an attractive aftermarket option thanks to its stylish design and powerful engine. This is a car for those who value comfort and dynamics, and are willing to put up with some operating features. Reliability with proper maintenance, it allows the car to serve faithfully for many years.
Owning such a car requires a responsible approach to maintenance. Regular replacement of consumables, monitoring the condition of the variator and timely repair of the suspension will provide you with comfortable trips. Cost of spare parts This model is relatively affordable, which simplifies maintenance.
If you're looking for a crossover with character and style that stands out from the crowd, Nissan Murano first generation is an excellent choice. Its unique appearance and interior space create a special atmosphere that is difficult to find in other models of the period. This car became a legend, setting new design standards for an entire class of crossovers.
What is the gas mileage of the 2004 Nissan Murano?
Fuel consumption depends on driving style and operating conditions. In the city it is about 14-16 liters per 100 km, on the highway - 9-11 liters. In a mixed cycle, the average is 12-14 liters.
How reliable is the CVT on the 2004 Murano?
The Jatco JF011E variator is considered reliable subject to regular maintenance. If you change the oil every 40-50 thousand km, it can go more than 200 thousand km without serious problems. However, overheating and driving on cold oil can quickly damage it.
What are the main problems with the VQ35DE engine?
Major problems include timing chain stretching, CVTCS failure, and ignition coil problems. Increased oil consumption is also observed with mileage of more than 150 thousand km. Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality filters help avoid these problems.
Is the Nissan Murano suitable for winter use?
Yes, the car is great for winter thanks to all-wheel drive and the All-Mode 4x4 system. However, it is worth considering that the ground clearance is not the greatest, and rubber seals can harden in severe frost. It is recommended to use winter tires and warm up the engine regularly.