Nissan Murano 2004: Everything you need to know before you buy

Nissan Murano The first generation (Z50), released in 2004, became a real breakthrough in the class of mid-size crossovers. This car combined the dynamics of a sports sedan, the spaciousness of a minivan interior and the cross-country ability of an SUV - a combination that still arouses interest among car enthusiasts. But almost 20 years have passed: is it worth considering today? Murano 2004 as an option for purchase?

In this material we will analyze technical features models, typical problems after 200+ thousand kilometers, nuances of operation and we will give practical advice on choosing a used copy. We’ll also reveal the secrets of why some owners call this crossover a “tank with premium comfort,” despite its age.

Technical specifications Nissan Murano Z50 2004

Under the hood Murano In 2004, a single engine was installed - naturally aspirated V6 VQ35DE volume 3.5 liters. This motor, known from models Nissan 350Z And Infiniti G35, developed 245 hp (in some markets - 234 hp) and 330 Nm torque. Transmission - only automatic (4-speed on early versions, 5-speed RE5R05A on restyled ones).

Drive - full Attesa E-TS electronically controlled, which under normal conditions distributed 100% of the torque to the front axle, and when slipping connected the rear. Ground clearance was 200 mm, which made it possible to feel confident on dirt roads, but did not make the car a real SUV.

Parameter	Meaning
Engine	VQ35DE 3.5 V6, 245 hp
Gearbox	4AT / 5AT RE5R05A
Drive	Full Attesa E-TS
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	8.5–9.2 sec.
Max. speed	200 km/h (electronically limited)

Interesting fact: Murano built on a platform Nissan FF-L, common with Altima And Maxima, but with an extended wheelbase. This provided a spacious interior (especially for rear passengers) and a spacious trunk. 480 liters (up to 1680 l with seats folded). However, this approach affected the weight - the car “weighed” from 1.7 to 1.9 tons depending on the configuration.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the reputation of a reliable car, Murano The 2004 has several “diseases” that you need to know about before purchasing. The main one is body corrosion. Particularly vulnerable:

• 🚗 Thresholds and lower parts of doors (rot from the inside, often unnoticed from the outside)
• 🚗 Rear arches (especially where the bumper is attached)
• 🚗 Spars in the rear suspension mounting area
• 🚗 Trunk lid (moisture accumulation under the seal)

The second serious problem is automatic transmission. On used cars 200 thousand km often found:

• ⚙️ Jerks when shifting (especially from 1st to 2nd gear)
• ⚙️ Loss of oil through seals (leads to overheating)
• ⚙️ Worn solenoids (error code P0730)

⚠️ Attention: If during a test drive the transmission “kicks” when cold, but when warmed up it works normally - this is the first sign of wear on the torque converter. Repairs will cost 80–120 thousand rubles.

Other typical faults:

• 🔥 Engine overheating due to a clogged radiator or faulty thermostat
• 🔊 Front suspension creaks (wear of stabilizer struts and silent blocks)
• 💡 Throttle position sensor failures (P0120)
• 🔋 Rapid battery discharge (problems with the generator or leaks in the circuit)

What should I do if my Murano won't start?

If the starter turns, but the engine does not start, check:

1. Spark on the spark plugs (ignition coils are a common problem).

2. Fuel pressure (the regulator or pump in the tank may be at fault).

3. Crankshaft sensor (if it fails, the computer does not send an injection signal).

If the starter does not turn, look at the fuse. IPDM E/R (block under the hood).

Options and equipment

In 2004 Murano offered in three main trim levels for the Russian market: Base, SL And SE. Even in the basic version the car was equipped with:

• 🎧 Climate control (automatic)
• 🎧 Electric windows, mirrors and seats
• 🎧 Leather steering wheel and automatic transmission selector
• 🎧 Audio system with 6 speakers

Version SL added:

• 🔥 Xenon headlights with washers
• 🔥 Heated seats with position memory
• 🔥 Electric sunroof
• 🔥 System Bose with 8 speakers

A unique feature of the top-end SE trim is the adaptive suspension with variable characteristics (Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control for shock absorbers), which allowed you to choose between comfort and sport mode. Also in SE 18-inch wheels were installed (versus 17-inch in other versions) and two-tone body paint.

Equipment	Engine	Box	Approximate price (2004, Russia)
Base	3.5 V6	4AT	~1,100,000 rub.
SL	3.5 V6	5AT	~1,350,000 rub.
SE	3.5 V6	5AT	~1,550,000 rub.

Operation and maintenance: advice from owners

Owners Murano 2004 unanimously noted: the car requires regular maintenance, but at the same time forgives many sins. Here are the key recommendations:

1. Engine oil - change every 7–8 thousand km (even if the mileage is small, more than a year has passed). Optimal viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-40 (synthetic). Popular brands: Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Idemitsu.
2. Transmission fluid - update every 60 thousand km. Suitable for 5-speed automatic transmission Nissan Matic S (original) or Mobil ATF 3309.
3. Brake system — pads last ~30 thousand km, discs — ~80 thousand km. When replacing, use ATE or Brembo (cheap analogues wear out quickly).

Pay special attention cooling system:

• 🔥 Antifreeze - only Nissan Long Life Coolant (green) or its analogues (CoolStream A-110). You can't mix with others!
• 🔥 Thermostat - change at the first signs of unstable operation (price ~3,500 rubles).
• 🔥 Radiator - wash it once every 2 years (it gets clogged with fluff and dirt).

Check the thickness of the paintwork (with a thickness gauge)|Inspect the sills and arches for rust|Test the box for jerks and kicks|Check the oil level in the automatic transmission (should be normal and without a burning smell)|Make sure there are no errors P0300–P0306 (misfire)-->

⚠️ Attention: If the panel lights up Check Engine with code P0420 (low catalyst efficiency), get ready to replace the lambda probes or the catalyst itself. It will cost ~50–70 thousand rubles for original spare parts.

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

In 2004 Murano there were several direct competitors. Let's compare them based on key parameters:

Model	Engine	Flow (mixed)	Pros	Cons
Nissan Murano 2004	3.5 V6, 245 hp	12–14 l/100 km	Spacious interior, reliable engine, all-wheel drive	High consumption, body corrosion, expensive automatic transmission
Toyota Highlander 2004	3.3 V6, 230 hp	11–13 l/100 km	Reliability, cheaper to maintain, less rusty	Less dynamic, more modest equipment
Honda Pilot 2004	3.5 V6, 240 hp	13–15 l/100 km	Cross-country ability, large trunk, comfort	Problems with automatic transmission, expensive spare parts
Ford Edge 2007*	3.5 V6, 265 hp	12–14 l/100 km	More modern, more powerful, cheaper aftermarket	Unreliable automatic transmission 6F35, weak suspension

* Ford Edge appeared later, but is often compared with Murano because of the similar concept.

Conclusion: Murano outperforms competitors in dynamics And comfort, but loses in transmission reliability And corrosion resistance. If durability is important to you, take a closer look at Toyota Highlander. If you need a stylish crossover with character - Murano remains one of the best options.

Prices on the secondary market and what affects them

As of 2026, prices for Nissan Murano 2004 in Russia range from 250 to 600 thousand rubles. The spread depends on:

• 💰 Mileage: up to 150 thousand km - from 450 thousand rubles; 150–250 thousand km — 300–400 thousand rubles; over 250 thousand km - up to 300 thousand rubles.
• 💰 Body conditions: rust-free cars are 30–50% more expensive.
• 💰 Options: SE with a sunroof and leather interior cost 50–80 thousand rubles. more expensive Base.
• 💰 Service history: the presence of receipts increases the price by 20–30%.

Where to look?

• 🔍 Avto.ru And Drome - the largest selection, but there are many “killed” copies.
• 🔍 Owner groups Murano in VKontakte And Facebook — they often sell well-maintained cars.
• 🔍 Japan Auctions (USS, TCV) - you can find clean copies with a mileage of up to 100 thousand km (price with customs clearance - from 500 thousand rubles).

⚠️ Attention: Be careful with cars imported from the USA. They often hide the mileage (the real average is 250+ thousand km) and do not treat rust. Check history by VIN through Carfax or AutoCheck.

Modding and tuning: what can be improved

Owners Murano often modify their cars to improve comfort or performance. Here are the popular modifications:

• 🔧 Suspension:
  • Replacing racks with Bilstein B4 or KYB Excel-G (softer than standard ones).
  • Installation of spacers to increase ground clearance (+20–30 mm).
• 🔧 Engine:
  • Chip tuning (up to +15–20 hp) - but only after checking the condition of the engine.
  • Replacing the exhaust system with a silent one (Magnum or Remus).
• 🔧 Exterior:
  • Installation of LED headlights (Morimoto or Osram LEDriving).
  • Pasting with vinyl film (popular colors Matte Black And Gun Metal).

The most useful modification - body corrosion protection:

1. Processing thresholds and arches ML-mastic or Dinitrol.
2. Installing mudguards on wheel arches.
3. Regular washing (especially in winter).

Is it worth betting gas equipment? Opinions are divided: on the one hand, gasoline consumption is high (12–14 l/100 km), on the other - VQ35DE sensitive to fuel quality. If you decide, choose equipment BRC or Lovato with separate nozzles.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2004 Nissan Murano

❓ What is the real fuel consumption of Murano 2004?

In the city - 14–16 l/100 km (depending on driving style and traffic jams). Along the highway - 9–11 l/100 km at a speed of 90–110 km/h. In winter, consumption increases by 1–2 liters. Owners note that after 100 thousand km, the engine’s appetite may increase by 10–15% due to wear.

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Murano?

Yes, but with reservations. Maximum trailer weight - 900 kg (without brakes) or 1,500 kg (with brakes). Important:

• Use the original towbar (Nissan or Westfalia).
• Check the temperature of the automatic transmission (it gets hotter when towing).
• Do not exceed the speed of 80 km/h.

For frequent towing, it is recommended to install an additional automatic transmission oil cooler.

❓ What kind of oil to pour into the distributor and bridges?

Suitable for transfer case and rear axle (if you have one) Nissan Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 or its analogues:

• Mobil Mobilube HD 80W-90
• Castrol Axle EPX 80W-90
• Liqui Moly Hypoid-Getriebeoil TDL 80W-90

Dispensing volume - 0.8 l, for the rear axle - 1.0 l. Change every 60 thousand km or once every 3 years.

❓ Why does the ABS light often come on on Murano?

Most often the culprits are:

1. ABS sensors on the hubs (oxidation or broken wire).
2. Rings on the hubs (wear or contamination).
3. ABS block (less common, but more expensive to repair - ~20 thousand rubles).

The first thing to do is read the error code via ELM327 or visit a diagnostician. Often the problem is solved by cleaning the sensors or replacing the wheel bearings (they come complete with ABS rings).

❓ Should you buy a 2004 Murano today?

The answer depends on your priorities:

Worth buying if:

• Do you need a spacious crossover with V6 and all-wheel drive.
• Are you ready to spend 30–50 thousand rubles. per year for service.
• We found a copy with mileage up to 180 thousand km and repair history.

It's better to refuse if:

• You are looking for an economical car (consumption and spare parts are expensive).
• Not ready to deal with rust (the body requires maintenance).
• Do you plan to drive on serious off-road conditions (this is not Patrol).

Alternative - Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot of the same year, but they are less comfortable and dynamic.