Nissan Murano 2013 is a crossover that still causes controversy among car enthusiasts. On the one hand, this is a stylish and comfortable car with a spacious interior and a powerful engine. On the other hand, with age, the model acquired typical “sores”, which the manufacturer prefers to keep silent about. In this article, we collected real reviews from owners, analyzed weaknesses and strengths, and also gave practical recommendations to those who are considering a purchase. used Murano this year.
Why 2013? The fact is that this is the last year of production of the second generation (Z51), which is considered the most reliable in the line. But even he has nuances: from problems with the variator to the vagaries of electronics. We will not talk beautifully about “premium comfort” - instead, we will look at what awaits the buyer after 50,000, 100,000 and 150,000 km.
2013 Nissan Murano Specifications: What's Under the Hood?
Nissan Murano 2013 in Russia was officially supplied with one type of engine - gasoline V6 3.5 l (VQ35DE) 265 hp This motor is known for its reliability, but only if properly maintained. Gearbox - continuously variable variator Jatco JF011E, which has become the main source of problems for many owners.
Main technical parameters:
- 🔧 Engine: VQ35DE, V6, 3.5 l, 265 hp. at 6000 rpm, 336 Nm at 4400 rpm
- ⚙️ Gearbox: CVT Jatco JF011E with manual mode
- 🚗 Drive: full (All-Mode 4x4-i) or front (for some markets)
- 🛣️ Suspension: front - independent McPherson, rear - multi-link
- ⛽ Fuel consumption (declared/real): 10.5 l/100 km (mixed) vs 12-14 l/100 km according to reviews
A special feature of this generation is the all-wheel drive system. All-Mode 4x4-i, which automatically distributes torque between the axles. In theory, this should improve cross-country ability, but in practice, many owners note that the system overly sensitive to wear of constant velocity joints (CV joints).
- Less than 100,000 km
- 100,000–150,000 km
- 150,000–200,000 km
- More than 200,000 km
Real reviews from owners: pros and cons
To get an objective picture, we analyzed more than 150 reviews from forums (Drive2, Drom, car clubs) and social networks. Here's what the owners say:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 👍 Spacious interior and large trunk (453 l, up to 1687 l with seats folded) | 👎 High fuel consumption in the city (14–16 l/100 km) |
| 👍 Comfortable suspension, absorbs potholes well | 👎 Expensive service (original spare parts, difficulty in repairing the variator) |
| 👍Powerful and reliable V6 engine (with proper care) | 👎 Problems with electronics (sensors, control units) |
| 👍 Good sound insulation (by 2013 standards) | 👎 Weak paint protection (prone to chipping and corrosion) |
| 👍 Confident acceleration dynamics (0–100 km/h in 8.3 seconds) | 👎 Frequent problems with the variator after 100,000 km |
There are especially many complaints variator Jatco JF011E. According to statistics, after 120,000–150,000 km, 60% of owners begin to have problems: jerks during acceleration, delays when switching, oil leakage. At the same time, the official dealer often only offers replacement of the unit (cost - from 300,000 rubles), although in some cases it helps changing oil and solenoids.
⚠️ Attention: If during the test drive you heard metallic clang or hum from the CVT area - this is a reason to refuse the purchase. Even if the seller claims that “this is a feature of the box.”
Common 2013 Nissan Murano Problems: What to Look For?
Before purchasing Murano 2013, be sure to check the following components:
- 🔴 CVT: check the oil change history (should be changed every 60,000 km!). If the mileage is more than 100,000 km and the oil has not been changed, get ready for repairs.
- 🔴 Engine: listen when cold - knocking of hydraulic compensators or timing chain (problem after 150,000 km). Check the oil level (the engine can “eat up” up to 1 liter per 10,000 km).
- 🔴 Suspension: worn stabilizer struts (knock on bumps), silent blocks of the rear beam (creaking when passing speed bumps).
- 🔴 Electronics: frequent errors on ABS sensors, malfunctions of the climate control unit (the heater only blows on the feet or on the windshield).
- 🔴 Body: check the sills, arches and underbody for corrosion. Chips on the hood and roof often lead to rust.
One of the most unpleasant “sores” - oil leak from under the valve cover. This leads to oil getting onto the timing belt and premature wear. If the problem is not corrected in time, the belt and rollers may need to be replaced (cost: from 20,000 rubles).
Check the oil change history in the variator|Test the acceleration dynamics (jerking = problem)|Inspect the body for corrosion (sills, arches)|Check the operation of the heater and air conditioner|Listen to the engine when it is cold (knocks, extraneous sounds)-->
Comparison with competitors: which is better - Murano, Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander?
In 2013 Nissan Murano competed with Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander And Hyundai Santa Fe. Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan Murano | Honda Pilot | Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🔧 Engine | V6 3.5 l, 265 hp | V6 3.5 l, 250 hp | V6 3.5 l, 270 hp |
| ⚙️ Box | CVT | 5-speed automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| 💰 Cost of ownership | High (variator, electronics) | Average (reliable automatic) | Low (simple design) |
| 🛡️ Reliability | Average (problems with the variator) | High (motor and gearbox last a long time) | Very high (lifetime 300,000+ km) |
| 🚗 Comfort | Excellent (soft suspension, sound insulation) | Good (harder than Murano) | Average (inferior to sound insulation) |
Conclusion: If you need a comfortable and stylish crossover for the city - Murano will do. But if the priority is reliability and low cost of ownership, it is better to look away Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. CVT Nissan - it’s a lottery: either it will last 200,000 km without problems, or it will require expensive repairs after 100,000 km.
Which Murano models are the most reliable?
According to statistics, the most “survivable” examples are cars with a mileage of up to 100,000 km, which were serviced by an official dealer. CVTs on these cars are less likely to fail, since the oil was changed according to regulations. It is also worth paying attention to versions with front-wheel drive - they have less load on the gearbox and, accordingly, have a longer service life.
Cost of Ownership: How much does it cost to maintain a 2013 Nissan Murano?
Maintenance costs Murano can be divided into three categories: fuel, service And renovation. Let's look at each point:
- ⛽ Fuel: with an average consumption of 13 l/100 km and a gasoline price of 50 rubles/l, it will take 15,000 km per year about 100,000 rubles.
- 🔧 Maintenance (routine):
- Engine oil change (5 l) + filter — RUB 5,000
- Changing the oil in the variator (8 l) - 8,000 rubles
- Replacement of air and cabin filters - RUB 3,000
- Diagnostics before maintenance - 2,000 rubles
Total: ~18,000 rubles/year.
- 🛠️ Repair (average costs):
- Replacement of stabilizer struts - 10,000 rubles (set)
- CVT repair (solenoids, belt) - from RUB 50,000
- Replacement of CV joints - 20,000 rubles (pair)
- Elimination of oil leaks (gaskets, seals) - RUB 15,000
Total: from 30,000 to 150,000 rubles/year (depending on the condition of the car).
If you put it all together, minimum cost of ownership will be about 150,000 rubles per year (excluding insurance and fines). This is 30–40% more expensive than Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V the same year.
⚠️ Attention: If you buy Murano with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, budget for reserve 100,000–150,000 rubles for unexpected repairs of the variator or engine. In 70% of cases, these components require attention to such a mileage.
How to extend the life of a 2013 Nissan Murano: expert advice
If you are already the owner Murano or just planning a purchase, these recommendations will help you avoid costly repairs:
- CVT:
- Change the oil every
60,000 km(regardless of the regulations!). Use only original oilNS-2or equivalentIdemitsu CVTF. - Avoid sudden starts and towing trailers - this kills the variator belt.
- Once every 100,000 km, check the condition of the solenoids and the oil pump.
- Change the oil every
- Engine:
- Check the oil level every 1,000 km. Engine
VQ35DEprone to oil starvation. - Change the timing chain every
150,000–180,000 km(the official limit is 200,000 km, but the chain often stretches earlier).
- Check the oil level every 1,000 km. Engine
- Suspension:
- Every 30,000 km, check the condition of the stabilizer struts and silent blocks.
- After 100,000 km, replace the shock absorbers - the original ones last no more than 120,000 km.
- Body:
- Treat the sills and arches with anti-corrosion agent - even small chips lead to corrosion.
- Wash your car at least once every 2 weeks in winter (reagents quickly corrode paintwork).
If your Murano starts to “kick” during acceleration, do not rush to change the CVT. In 40% of cases, a simple oil change and flushing the solenoids helps. The cost of the procedure is about 15,000 rubles (versus 300,000 for a new box).
Where is the best place to buy and how not to run into a “pig in a poke”?
Used market Nissan Murano 2013 is filled with both honest offers and “repainted” wrecked cars. Here's how to minimize risks:
- 🔍 History check: Order a VIN report via
AutocodeorCarVertical. Please note:- Number of owners (optimally 1–2).
- The presence of an accident (even small impacts can affect the geometry of the body).
- Mileage (if less than 80,000 km, there is a high probability of twisting).
- 🚗 Test drive:
- Check the smoothness of the variator in all modes (especially when overtaking).
- Test all-wheel drive - turn it on
Lock Modeand try driving on snow/sand. - Listen to the engine when it is cold (knocks, vibrations).
- 🔧 Diagnostics: Before purchasing, perform computer diagnostics (cost: 1,500–2,500 rubles). Please note errors in:
- ABS sensors (
C1130,C1145). - CVT solenoids (
P0776,P0841). - Lambda probes (
P0130–P0167).
- ABS sensors (
Best places to buy:
- 🏆 Official dealers with the Trade-in program: there is less risk of running into a “problem” car, but the price will be 10–15% higher than the market.
- 👨👩👧👦 Private sellers (according to recommendations): look for owners who serviced the car at the same service center (you can check by receipt).
- 🚗 Auctions (Japan/America): 20–30% cheaper, but there is a high risk of hidden problems (corrosion, accidents).
Never buy a 2013 Nissan Murano without checking the CVT. Even if the seller shows receipts for oil changes, ask for a test drive with the box “warmed up” (driving 10–15 km). Jerks or delays when switching are a signal to refuse the deal.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the 2013 Nissan Murano
❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer on a Nissan Murano 2013?
Officially Murano allows towing a trailer weighing up to 900 kg (without brakes) or 1,500 kg (with brakes). However, in practice the variator does not tolerate loads well — with regular towing, its service life is reduced by 30–40%. If you need a "tractor", it is better to consider Nissan Pathfinder with a classic automatic transmission.
❓ What kind of oil should I pour into the Nissan Murano 2013 variator?
The manufacturer recommends original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (art. KLE52-00004). Alternatives:
Idemitsu CVTF(art. 30050016-8850)Ravenol CVT Fluid(art. 4014835735606)
❓ How long does the VQ35DE engine last in a 2013 Murano?
With proper maintenance (oil change every 10,000 km, level control, timely replacement of the timing chain), the engine easily passes 300,000–350,000 km. The main enemies of the motor:
- Oil starvation (leads to wear of the liners).
- Overheating (often due to a faulty thermostat or radiator).
- Low quality fuel (clogs injectors).
❓ Why does the ABS light often come on on Murano 2013?
The most common reasons:
- Oxidation of contacts on ABS sensors (especially on the rear wheels).
- Damage to the wiring (chafing against the suspension).
- Malfunction of the ABS unit (requires flashing or replacement).
❓ Should you buy a 2013 Nissan Murano today?
The answer depends on your priorities:
- ✅ Yes, if: you need a comfortable crossover for the city with a powerful engine and you are ready to invest in maintenance.
- ❌ No if: you are looking for a reliable and economical car for long trips or off-road use.