When it comes to midsize crossovers from the early 2010s, Nissan Murano The second generation (Z51) occupies a special place in the minds of car enthusiasts. The 2012 model marked the pinnacle of this platform's development, offering buyers the perfect balance between aggressive design and sophisticated interior design. However, behind the external attractiveness lies complex engineering that requires the owner to have a deep understanding of the specifics of maintenance.
Choosing 2012 Nissan Murano, you're looking at a car that challenged traditional European and American crossovers in its day. Its unique body architecture, more reminiscent of a premium sedan or coupe, sets it apart from its competitors. But when buying used, it is critical to evaluate the technical condition, especially given the reputation of CVTs of that period and the suspension features.
Design and ergonomics: why this is a unique model
The appearance of the 2012 crossover remains relevant even after a decade. Body lines Murano soft, smooth, devoid of sharp edges, which gives the car an expensive feel. Pay attention to the characteristic headlights, which “look” following the movement of the car, and the huge radiator grille, which became the hallmark of the brand at that time. The car's interior is designed in an "aircraft cabin" style, where all controls are located on the top of the center console.
The ergonomics of the driver's seat are thought out to the smallest detail, but have their own nuances. The instrument panel is located high, which takes some getting used to, but visibility through the windshield remains excellent. Seats Zero Gravity really provide a high degree of comfort on long trips, reducing the load on the spine. However, rear seat space may feel tight for tall passengers due to the heavily sloping roofline.
- 🚗 Unique body design that does not become outdated even now.
- 💺 Chairs with zero gravity effect for maximum back support.
- 📱 Advanced multimedia system with a large screen (for 2012).
- 🌧️ Excellent noise insulation, superior to many competitors.
The interior is trimmed with soft plastics and high-quality leather, which is rare in this segment. But you should be careful: over time, the plastic may begin to creak, and the leather on the driver’s seat and steering wheel may begin to wear out. Check the condition of the seams on the steering wheel and armrest - this is an indicator of real mileage, which is often twisted by unscrupulous sellers.
⚠️ Attention: When inspecting the interior, be sure to check the operation of all buttons on the steering wheel and center console. Repair of multimedia control buttons on Nissan Murano 2012 - a common and costly problem due to oxidation of contacts inside the module.
Engines and transmission: the heart of the crossover
Under the hood of the 2012 model, a naturally aspirated engine is most often found 3.5 V6 (VQ35DE series), producing 265 horsepower. This motor is the standard of reliability for the Japanese auto industry, if you keep an eye on it. It provides smooth and powerful acceleration, fully consistent with the image of a “crossover coupe”. Fuel consumption in the urban cycle is, of course, high, but it is justified by the dynamics and engine size.
The main issue when purchasing is the condition of the transmission. The car is equipped with a continuously variable transmission CVT Jatco (model JF011E). This gearbox requires special attention: regular oil changes every 40-50 thousand kilometers are mandatory. Ignoring this rule leads to rapid wear of the cones and belt drive. The oil in the 2012 Nissan Murano CVT must be changed strictly every 40,000 km, otherwise repairs will require a complete replacement of the unit.
In addition, there are nuances with the all-wheel drive system All-Wheel Drive. Over time, the rear axle coupling may become clogged with dirt or lose its seal. Also pay attention to the condition of the drive boots and wheel bearings - they are subject to wear when operating in harsh Russian conditions.
- 🛠️ The VQ35DE engine requires an oil change every 7-8 thousand km.
- ⚙️ The CVT variator is afraid of overheating and driving in traffic jams without cooling.
- 🌡️ The variator cooling system is critical for the long life of the gearbox.
- 🔧 The complete drive system requires checking the coupling and gearbox.
- V6 3.5 (reliable, but eats a lot)
- V6 3.5 (reliable, but eats a lot)
- V6 3.5 (reliable, but eats a lot)
- Other
Typical faults and weaknesses
Despite the overall reliability, Nissan Murano 2012 has a number of “childhood diseases” that you need to know before purchasing. One of the most common problems is a failed high-pressure fuel pump or a clogged throttle valve. Owners also encounter leaks from camshaft seals, which often leads to oil getting onto the generator and causing it to fail.
The crossover suspension is comfortable, but not eternal. Shock absorbers begin to lose their properties after 100 thousand kilometers. The silent blocks of the front arms and stabilizer bushings also require attention. If you hear knocking noises when driving over bumps or feel the steering wheel “floating” on a straight line, this is a reason to immediately check the chassis.
☑️ Suspension checklist
⚠️ Warning: Do not ignore the check engine light. On Nissan Murano it often signals problems with the ignition system or oxygen sensors, which, if ignored, can lead to catalytic converter failure and engine overheating.
The car's electrical system also has its own characteristics. Tire pressure sensors or the keyless entry system may malfunction. Sometimes power window control modules fail, which requires replacing the entire unit, since repairing individual buttons is not always possible. Electrical diagnostics require specialized Nissan Consult equipment.
Maintenance and operation in Russian conditions
For successful operation Nissan Murano In our climate, several factors must be taken into account. In winter, the V6 engine takes a long time to warm up, so it is recommended to install a pre-heater or at least a high-quality alarm system with auto start. The cabin heating system is efficient, but the cabin filter needs to be changed more often than once a year, as it quickly becomes clogged with city dust.
Technical fluids must be replaced strictly according to regulations or more often. Use only original variator oil NS-2 or certified analogues. Fake oil can kill a gearbox in one season. The brake system requires attention to the calipers, which can become sour due to dirt getting into the guides.
What to do if the variator overheats?
If the transmission temperature warning light appears on your dashboard, stop immediately and turn off the engine. Allow the car to cool naturally. Do not try to continue driving, even if the error has disappeared - this is the right path to a major overhaul of the gearbox.
The car body is well galvanized, but rust appears quickly in places where the paint is chipped. Pay special attention to the sills, arches and trunk lid. Regular washing and application of protective wax will help preserve the paintwork. The crossover's glass is quite fragile, especially the windshield, so you should be careful when driving on the highway behind trucks.
Cost of ownership and liquidity
Purchase Nissan Murano 2012 is an investment in comfort, but you need to be prepared for the expense. Spare parts for this car are more expensive than for popular crossovers like Rav4 or CR-V. Some body parts have to be imported from abroad, and original components for the engine and transmission have a high price.
However, the liquidity of the model remains stable. Good copies with a transparent service history sell quickly. The used car market is full of offers, but finding a live one Nissan Murano It's getting more and more difficult. Their price is usually higher than the market average for the same year of production.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6 3.5 l (265 hp) | Gasoline, naturally aspirated |
| Transmission | CVT (Jatco JF011E) | Requires frequent oil changes |
| Drive | Full (All-Wheel Drive) | Rear axle coupling |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11-13 l/100 km | Depends on driving style |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 7.2 sec | For version with all-wheel drive |
The purchase of a 2012 Nissan Murano is justified only if you have a complete technical report and the ability to check the service history of the CVT.
Tips for choosing a specific instance
When inspecting the car, first connect the diagnostic scanner. Check the actual mileage of the variator and the presence of errors in transmission temperature. If the scanner shows thousands of errors or high wear of the variator, it is better to refuse the purchase, even if the price seems attractive. The V6 engine is virtually indestructible, but the transmission can be a huge expense.
Pay attention to the service history. It is advisable that you have receipts from gas stations and service centers in your hands. Not having a CVT oil change record is a red flag. Also check the operation of all electronic systems: climate control, heated seats, multimedia. Repair of these systems at Nissan Murano 2012 often requires replacing entire blocks.
- 🔍 Be sure to check the service history via VIN code.
- 🔧 Diagnostics of the variator is a mandatory step before purchasing.
- 💰 Set aside a budget for replacing all technical fluids immediately after purchase.
- 🚫 Avoid cars after taxis or car sharing - they are critically worn out.
⚠️ Attention: If the seller claims that “the oil in the CVT does not need to be changed,” leave immediately. This statement is false and shows ignorance of the vehicle or an attempt to hide serious transmission problems.
Conclusion: who is this car suitable for?
Nissan Murano 2012 is the choice for those who value comfort, style and dynamics above efficiency and ease of maintenance. This is a car for families who love to travel and for people who want to stand out on the road. However, it requires a responsible owner who is willing to spend time and money on quality maintenance.
If you are ready to pay attention to technical condition, regularly change oils and monitor electronics, this crossover will become a faithful friend for many years. It provides driving pleasure and a feeling of premium comfort that is difficult to find in other cars of this class and year of manufacture. But if you're looking for a "buy it and forget it" car, there are other options to consider.
Before purchasing, be sure to start the engine when cold and listen to the operation of the variator. When you press the gas smoothly, there should be no jerking, humming or vibration. Any extraneous sounds are a reason for a detailed diagnosis.
Which engine is best for the 2012 Nissan Murano?
The only available option is a 3.5 liter naturally aspirated V6. It is reliable, but requires high-quality gasoline and regular maintenance. 2.5 engines or diesel versions were not installed on this generation.
How reliable is the Jatco CVT on this model?
The reliability of the variator directly depends on maintenance. With timely oil changes every 40-50 thousand km, the service life can be 200 thousand km or more. Without maintenance, the resource drops sharply to 80-100 thousand km.
How much gas mileage does the 2012 Nissan Murano get?
In the urban cycle, consumption is 14-16 liters, on the highway - about 9-10 liters. In the combined cycle, actual consumption varies between 12-13 liters per 100 km.
Is it difficult to find parts for the 2012 Murano?
Spare parts for the engine and suspension are easy to find, as they are unified with other Nissan models. Body parts and electronic components may require ordering from abroad, which will increase waiting times.
Is it worth buying a Murano with more than 200,000 km on it?
Buying a car with a mileage of more than 200 thousand km carries high risks, especially for the variator and engine. It is recommended to look for copies with a mileage of up to 150 thousand km to avoid expensive repairs in the near future.