Is the 2005 Nissan Murano reliable?

It can be a reliable midsize crossover when maintained well, especially the 3.5L V6, but overall reliability depends heavily on CVT condition and whether drivetrain fluids were serviced regularly.

What are the most common 2005 Nissan Murano problems?

The most common issues include CVT shudder or failure, AWD transfer case/driveline noises or leaks, aging suspension wear (clunks, uneven tire wear), and occasional oil leaks or engine sensor faults.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2005 Murano?

Routine maintenance is usually reasonable for a midsize SUV, but costs can climb if the CVT, transfer case, or suspension needs major repairs, making preventive fluid services and inspections especially important.

What are the best years to buy for a first-generation Murano?

Many shoppers prefer later first-gen years like 2006–2007 due to incremental updates, but condition and service history matter more than model year—avoid any example with CVT symptoms or missing maintenance records.

What should I check before buying a used 2005 Nissan Murano?

Confirm smooth CVT operation (no shudder, slipping, or delayed engagement), check for AWD fluid leaks and driveline noise, review maintenance records for CVT/transfer case fluid service, inspect suspension for clunks, and scan for stored trouble codes. For a smarter purchase and ownership experience, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, fluid capacities, and maintenance schedules for the 2005 Nissan Murano.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2005 Nissan Murano Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable SUV with a great engine, but the ticking time bomb of its CVT means it's a gamble at higher mileages.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

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.

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 break first on the 2005 Nissan Murano. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)critical

Suspension Componentsmoderate

Electrical Systemminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

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.

All Nissan Murano years ranked →Nissan Murano years to avoid →Nissan Murano common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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