2006 Nissan Murano: honest reviews, weaknesses and expert recommendations

Nissan Murano first generation (body Z50) The 2006 model year remains one of the most talked about crossovers on the secondary market. This car, which debuted in 2002, had undergone a number of updates by 2006, but retained its signature philosophy: combining the comfort of a premium sedan with the off-road capability of an SUV. Today, almost 20 years later, Murano continues to attract buyers with its extraordinary design, spacious interior and time-tested platform.

However, before buying a used one Nissan Murano 2006 It is important to understand that behind the stylish body are hidden both the advantages and the typical “illnesses” of an older car. In this article we have collected real owner reviews, analyzed breakdown statistics, compared with competitors (Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge) and prepared a checklist for inspection before purchase. We will pay special attention problems with the RE0F06A variator, which can result in a major overhaul costing 200+ thousand rubles.

2006 Nissan Murano Specifications: What's Under the Hood?

In 2006 Murano was offered with a single power unit - gasoline V6 3.5L VQ35DE (245 hp), coupled with a stepless variator RE0F06A. This combination provided acceleration to 100 km/h in 8.5 sec and maximum speed 200 km/h, which was more than worthy for a crossover of those years. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle was 11.5–13 l/100 km - a figure typical for atmospheric “sixes” of that time.

Technical features of the platform Murano Z50:

• 🔧 Suspension: independent multi-link front and rear, with air suspension on top versions (optional Sport Utility Package).
• 🛡️ Drive: full Attesa E-TS with electronic control, distributing torque along the axes in a ratio of 100:0 to 50:50.
• 🔋 Electronics: stability control system VDC, anti-lock braking system ABS with EBD, and tire pressure sensors (TPMS).
• 🚗 Dimensions: length 4780 mm, width 1885 mm, height 1720 mm, ground clearance 200 mm.

It's important to note that Murano 2006 became the last year of production of the first generation - debuted in 2007 Z51 with an updated design and modified transmission. This means that 2006 cars are often found with “transitional” solutions: for example, some examples were already equipped with a modified CVT, but officially belonged to the first generation.

Owner reviews: pros and cons of Nissan Murano 2006

Analysis of reviews on forums (Drive2, Drom.ru, Nissan-Club.ru) and on social networks shows that opinions about Murano 2006 polar. Owners praise the car for comfort, reliability of the VQ35DE engine And spacious salon, but are criticized for expensive maintenance And problems with the variator after 150–200 thousand km.

Main advantages according to reviews:

• ✅ Engine VQ35DE: resource to capital - 300–400 thousand km with proper maintenance. Owners note the “indestructibility” of the engine even when running for 250+ thousand km.
• ✅ Comfort: soft suspension, quiet interior (noise level 68 dB at a speed of 100 km/h), comfortable seats with lateral support.
• ✅ Patency: despite the “parquet” image, Murano Feels confident on dirt roads and snow thanks to the system Attesa E-TS.
• ✅ Design: futuristic exterior (especially in color Sunlight Silver or Brilliant Silver) and now looks fresh.

Main disadvantages:

• ❌ CVT RE0F06A: after 180–220 thousand km requires replacement of the belt and cones (repair cost - from 120 thousand rubles).
• ❌ Suspension: wear of silent blocks (40–60 thousand km), wheel bearings (100–120 thousand km) and shock absorbers (80–100 thousand km).
• ❌ Electronics: problems with the climate control unit (Auto A/C Control Unit) and ABS sensors.
• ❌ Body: corrosion of thresholds and arches in the absence of anti-corrosion treatment (especially in the northern regions).

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Murano 2006 with mileage over 150 thousand km Be sure to check the oil change history of the variator. If there are no records or the oil has not been changed every 60 thousand km, be prepared for a transmission repair soon.

Typical problems and weaknesses: what to look for?

Service center experts and high-mileage owners identify several “bottlenecks” Nissan Murano 2006that require close attention:

1. CVT RE0F06A

The most expensive and common problem. Signs of wear:

• 🔴 Jerks when accelerating or braking.
• 🔴 Humming or whistling noise from under the hood at speed 40–60 km/h.
• 🔴Lamp lights up Check Engine with errors P0776 or P0841.

Average variator belt resource - 150–180 thousand km. Replacement costs 80–120 thousand rubles (depending on the region). Recommendation: if the mileage is more 120 thousand km, and the oil in the variator has not been changed, it is better to immediately set aside a budget for repairs.

2. VQ35DE engine

The motor is reliable, but has “childhood diseases”:

• 🔧 Oil leak through the valve cover and rear crankshaft oil seal (after 200 thousand km).
• 🔧 Timing chain wear: requires replacement every 150–180 thousand km (cost of work - 25–35 thousand rubles).
• 🔧 Throttle valve contamination — leads to floating idle speed.

3. Suspension and steering

Weak points:

• 🚗 Front arm silent blocks - break down every time 50–70 thousand km.
• 🚗 Wheel bearings - resource 100–120 thousand km.
• 🚗 Steering rack - may leak after 150 thousand km.

Checking the oil in the variator (should be light, without a burnt smell)

Error diagnosis via OBD-II (especially P0776, P0841)

Inspection of the suspension on a lift (silent blocks, balls, shock absorbers)

Test drive to check smooth acceleration and braking

Checking the body for corrosion (sills, arches, bottom) -->

Comparison with competitors: which is better to choose?

In 2006 Nissan Murano There were few direct competitors in the mid-size crossover class. Let's look at their key differences:

Parameter	Nissan Murano 2006	Toyota Highlander 2006	Honda Pilot 2006	Ford Edge 2006
Engine	V6 3.5 l (245 hp)	V6 3.3 l (230 hp) or V6 3.5 l (270 hp)	V6 3.5 l (255 hp)	V6 3.5 l (265 hp)
Transmission	CVT RE0F06A	5-speed automatic	5-speed automatic	6-speed automatic
Fuel consumption (combined)	11.5–13 l/100 km	12–14 l/100 km	13–15 l/100 km	12.5–14.5 l/100 km
Reliability	Average (variator)	High	High	Medium (problems with automatic transmission)
Resale price (2026)	450–700 thousand rubles.	500–800 thousand rubles.	550–850 thousand rubles.	400–650 thousand rubles.

Conclusion: Murano loses Toyota Highlander And Honda Pilot in the reliability of the transmission, but wins in design and comfort. Ford Edge Cheaper, but inferior in cross-country ability and build quality. If you care style and uniqueness - choose Murano. If the priority is reliability and ease of maintenance - better look to the side Highlander.

Cost of Ownership: How much does it cost to maintain a 2006 Murano?

Maintenance costs Nissan Murano 2006 depend on the mileage and condition of the car. Here are the estimated prices for spare parts and labor (as of 2026):

Unit/Part	Cost of spare parts (RUB)	Cost of work (rub.)	Replacement frequency
CVT oil (5 l)	3 500–5 000	1 500–2 500	Every 60 thousand km
Variator belt	40 000–60 000	30 000–50 000	150–180 thousand km
Timing chain + tensioners	12 000–18 000	15 000–25 000	150–180 thousand km
Front arm silent blocks (set)	8 000–12 000	6 000–10 000	50–70 thousand km
Wheel bearing (1 piece)	5 000–8 000	3 000–5 000	100–120 thousand km

Average annual maintenance costs (excluding unforeseen repairs) will be 50–80 thousand rubles. If the variator is already “tired”, add more 100–150 thousand rubles for major repairs. Insurance OSAGO will cost 8–12 thousand rubles (depending on the region and driver experience), CASCO - from 40 thousand rubles per year.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Murano 2006 with mileage over 200 thousand km budget 100–150 thousand rubles for possible repairs of the variator and suspension in the first year of operation.

How to choose a good Nissan Murano 2006: step-by-step instructions

To avoid running into a “pig in a poke”, follow this algorithm:

1. Document verification:
   • 📄 Make sure that the VIN number in the PTS matches the number on the body (under the windshield and on the driver’s stand).
   • 📄 Check the history via Autocode or CarVertical — whether there are any accidents, restrictions or bail.
2. Body inspection:
   • 🔍 Inspect the sills, arches and bottom for corrosion. Particularly vulnerable places under plastic linings.
   • 🔍 Check the gaps between body panels - uneven gaps may indicate an accident.
3. Engine and transmission diagnostics:
   • 🔧 Start the car when it is cold - there should be no knocks, vibrations or smoke from the exhaust.
   • 🔧 Take a test drive: accelerate smoothly and sharply, listening to the variator. Jerking or hesitation is a sign of wear.
4. Electronics check:
   • 💡 Make sure all sensors are working (ABS, ESP, tire pressure).
   • 💡 Check the climate control in all modes.

If you are not technically savvy, take an experienced mechanic with you to the inspection or order pre-sale diagnostics in service (cost - 2–3 thousand rubles). This will save you tens of thousands in potential repairs.

Modifications and configurations: what did Nissan offer in 2006?

In 2006 Nissan Murano in Russia it was officially sold in three trim levels:

1. SE (basic):
   • 🔘 17-inch wheels.
   • 🔘 Fabric interior.
   • 🔘 Climate control (single zone).
   • 🔘 Audio system with 6 speakers.
2. SL (medium):
   • 🔘 18-inch wheels.
   • 🔘 Leather interior.
   • 🔘 Dual-zone climate control.
   • 🔘 Electric driver's seat.
3. LE (top):
   • 🔘 20-inch wheels.
   • 🔘 Leather interior with heated and ventilated front seats.
   • 🔘 System Bose with 9 speakers.
   • 🔘 Air suspension (Sport Utility Package).

The most common versions found on the secondary market are SL — they are optimal in terms of price/equipment ratio. Versions LE more expensive to maintain due to air suspension, and SE often have a stripped-down configuration (for example, without a hatch).

Color solutions for 2006:

• 🎨 Sunlight Silver Metallic (most popular).
• 🎨 Brilliant Silver Metallic.
• 🎨 Titanium Pearl (gray-golden).
• 🎨 Aspen Pearl White.
• 🎨 Midnight Garnet Pearl (dark burgundy).

How to distinguish the restyled version of 2006 from the pre-restyling version?

In 2005, Murano underwent a facelift, which affected:

- Front bumper (the shape of the air intakes has changed).

- Optics (the headlights have become a little narrower, with chrome trim).

- Rear lights (added LED elements).

- Steering wheel (new design with audio control buttons).

Cars for the 2006 model year already came with these changes.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the 2006 Nissan Murano

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Nissan Murano 2006?

Yes, Murano 2006 allows towing a trailer weighing up to 1,500 kg (with brakes) or 750 kg (no brakes). However, keep in mind that the variator RE0F06A does not like long-term loads - when towing heavy trailers, it is recommended to install an additional transmission cooling radiator.

❓ What kind of oil should I put in the Murano 2006 variator?

The manufacturer recommends original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (art. KLE52-00004). Analogues: Idemitsu CVTF or Ravenol CVT Fluid. Volume for a complete replacement - 9.5 l, for partial - 5–6 l. Important: do not use cheap universal oils - this will accelerate the wear of the variator.

❓ How much does a contract CVT cost for a Murano 2006?

Price of a used variator RE0F06A in good condition - 80–120 thousand rubles. A new original variator will cost 250–300 thousand rubles. Installation and configuration in the service - more 30–50 thousand rubles. Alternative: repair of the current variator (replacement of the belt, cones, solenoids) for 100–150 thousand rubles.

❓ What is the real resource of the VQ35DE engine?

With timely maintenance (oil change every 10 thousand km, timing chains - every 150 thousand km) engine VQ35DE passes easily 300–400 thousand km without major repairs. Records on forums - 500+ thousand km. The main thing is to monitor the oil level and prevent overheating.

❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Murano 2006?

Original spare parts can be ordered from official dealers Nissan or in trusted online stores (Exist.ru, Emgrand.ru). Good quality analogues are offered by brands:

• 🔧 MOOG (silent blocks, levers).
• 🔧 SKF (wheel bearings).
• 🔧 Aisin (variators, automatic transmission).
• 🔧 NGK or Denso (candles, sensors).

Advice: Before purchasing, check the spare parts by VIN number on the website Nissan.