2005 Nissan Murano Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2005 Nissan Murano
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the engine and engine cooling.
- Outscores the 2004 Nissan Murano by 3 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 2005 Nissan Murano?
The 2005 Nissan Murano offers a powerful V6 engine and a comfortable ride, but it's fundamentally hobbled by its continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the engine is robust, the CVT poses a significant, high-cost reliability risk that demands careful consideration and a robust pre-purchase inspection if you're thinking of buying one.
While the 2005 Nissan Murano offers a comfortable, powerful, and stylish package, its inherent CVT reliability issues make it a risky proposition. If you are prepared to gamble on the transmission or factor in a potential replacement cost, it can be a comfortable cruiser. Otherwise, look elsewhere. Its strong engine…
Best Model Years
None for this generation (2003-2007) regarding CVT reliability, as all shared similar transmission designs. Later generations (2009+) saw some CVT improvements, but not complete eradication of issues.
Years to Avoid
All 2003-2007 Muranos carry a high CVT risk, with earlier years often being the most problematic.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust VQ35DE V6 engine
- Comfortable and quiet ride quality
- Spacious and well-appointed interior for its class
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2005 Nissan Murano, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The RE0F09A (JF010E) CVT is highly prone to internal failure, often exhibiting symptoms like shuddering, slipping, delayed engagement, or complete loss of power. This is due to internal wear of the belt and pulleys, or solenoid issues, e…
Front lower control arm bushings, strut mounts, and sway bar end links are common failure points. This leads to clunking noises, loose steering feel, and uneven tire wear. While not catastrophic, it's a persistent nuisance and safety con…
Issues include failing window regulators (especially driver's side), erratic fuel gauges, and occasional issues with the sunroof motor or body control module (BCM). These are typically inconvenient rather than immobilizing, but can be co…
2005 Nissan Murano Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2005 Nissan Murano most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Murano is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. No significant widespread issues are expected yet beyond minor wear.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often requires more extensive maintenance, including spark plugs, belt inspection, and a critical CVT fluid change. Suspension components might start showing early signs of wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
The Murano enters a period where major component failures, especially the CVT, become a much higher probability. Suspension overhaul and engine gasket leaks are also more likely to surface.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the 2005 Murano is deep into its high-risk phase, largely due to the CVT. Any vehicle at this mileage will require significant investment in wear items, but the CVT can make further repairs uneconomical.
2005 Nissan Murano Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2005 Nissan Murano on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,500 for suspension work or electrical fixes, occurring every 2-3 years.
How Long Does the 2005 Nissan Murano Last?
If considering a 2005 Murano, prioritize models with extremely low mileage (under 60,000 miles) or those with documented recent CVT replacement, and maintain the transmission meticulously.
What 2005 Nissan Murano Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth and powerful VQ35DE V6 engine performance
- Comfortable and quiet cabin ideal for long drives
- Stylish and distinctive exterior design for its era
- Spacious interior and decent cargo capacity
Common Frustrations
- Frequent and costly CVT failures
- Significant road noise from tires at highway speeds
- Dashboard cracking due to sun exposure
- Fuel economy is only average for a V6 crossover
Who Should Buy the 2005 Nissan Murano?
Best For
- Individuals seeking a comfortable, powerful V6 crossover on a tight budget
- Buyers who understand the significant CVT risk and are prepared for its replacement
- Those who prioritize ride comfort and interior space over absolute long-term reliability
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking bulletproof long-term reliability and low maintenance costs
- Individuals without a significant repair fund set aside
How the 2005 Nissan Murano Compares to Rivals
While the Murano offered a more engaging driving experience and premium interior feel than some domestic rivals, its long-term reliability is significantly overshadowed by its problematic CVT when compared to Japanese competitors like the Highlander or Pilot.
More Reliable Than
- Chevrolet Equinox (first gen)
- Ford Escape (early 2000s)
Comparable To
- Saturn Vue
- Hyundai Santa Fe (first gen)
NHTSA Recalls
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
NISSAN IS RECALLING 362,891 MY 2003-2007 MURANO VEHICLES. THE INTAKE AIR DUCTS, WHICH ARE CONNECTED TO THE INTERMEDIATE RESONATOR IN THE AIR INTAKE SYSTEM OF THE ENGINE, MAY SEPARATE FROM THE RESONATOR WITH ENGINE MOVEMENT. THIS SEPARATION OCCURS DUE TO THE PREMATURE AGING OF THE MATERIAL USED IN THE INTAKE AIR DUCTS WHICH CAUSES EXCESSIVE SHRINKING.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, A FITTING FOR VAPOR RECIRCULATION, WHICH IS WELDED ON THE FUEL TANK, MAY COME OFF THE FUEL TANK BECAUSE INCORRECT MATERIAL WAS USED.
What breaks on the 2005 Nissan Murano?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Murano by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Murano. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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