2012 Nissan Murano Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2012 Nissan Murano
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2013 Nissan Murano earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: cvt transmission (critical severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systems.
2012 Nissan Murano: Buy or Avoid?
The 2012 Nissan Murano presents a compelling package of style and comfort, but its Achilles' heel is the continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the VQ35DE engine is robust, potential buyers must prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection of the CVT to avoid costly future repairs. This vehicle can be a good value if you find one with meticulous service records and a healthy transmission.
You absolutely must proceed with caution when considering a 2012 Nissan Murano. Its overall reliability is heavily dictated by the health of its CVT, a component that has a well-documented history of premature failure. While the VQ engine and overall comfort are appealing, neglecting a thorough transmission inspecti…
Best Model Years
2013-2014 (Later models of the 2nd generation might have slight CVT revisions or benefit from extended warranty programs if still active.)
Years to Avoid
2009-2010 (Earlier 2nd generation models, more likely to be out of any extended CVT warranty, and potentially worse CVT fluid maintenance histories.)
Biggest Strengths
- Reliable VQ35DE engine
- Comfortable and stylish interior
- Smooth ride quality
2012 Nissan Murano — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2012 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 Xtronic CVT is prone to premature failure, manifesting as shuddering, slipping, loss of power, or complete breakdown. This is often due to overheating, inadequate fluid cooling, or internal component wear.
The blower motor or its resistor can fail, leading to intermittent fan speeds or no air flow. Compressor issues, while less common than the blower, can also occur.
Lower control arm bushings are prone to premature wear, leading to clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Struts and strut mounts also show wear over time.
2012 Nissan Murano Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2012 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 should be in excellent condition, primarily requiring routine fluid changes and tire rotations. Focus on verifying basic service history.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical interval for the CVT fluid service. Neglecting this dramatically increases the risk of future transmission failure. Also, inspect suspension components and brake wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
The CVT is entering its statistically most vulnerable period. A pre-purchase inspection should heavily scrutinize transmission behavior. Other wear items like belts, hoses, and suspension will also need attention.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Murano becomes a gamble on the CVT. While a well-maintained example might continue, the probability of major transmission repair or replacement significantly increases. Plan for age-related component failures.
2012 Nissan Murano Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2012 Nissan Murano on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2012 Nissan Murano Last?
For maximum peace of mind, seek out Murano models with documented CVT fluid changes every 30,000-60,000 miles. Be extremely wary of any Murano approaching or exceeding 100,000 miles without a recent CVT service, as it enters its highest risk zone.
What 2012 Nissan Murano Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth, powerful acceleration from the V6 engine
- Refined and comfortable interior with quality materials
- Distinctive, upscale exterior styling that stands out
- Quiet cabin on the highway, contributing to a relaxed ride
Common Frustrations
- Constant worry about the CVT's longevity and potential failure
- Fuel economy is disappointing for a mid-size crossover
- Limited cargo space compared to more utilitarian rivals
- Infotainment and navigation system can feel outdated
Who Should Buy the 2012 Nissan Murano?
Best For
- Style-conscious individuals prioritizing comfort over utility
- Buyers seeking a powerful V6 crossover at a bargain price
- Those who drive fewer miles annually and can afford potential repairs
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious owners who cannot afford major repair bills
- High-mileage commuters relying on absolute reliability
How the 2012 Nissan Murano Compares to Rivals
The Murano's VQ engine is often superior to many competitors, but the CVT is a distinct disadvantage compared to the traditional automatics found in top-tier rivals like Toyota and Honda, making its overall reliability score suffer.
More Reliable Than
- 2012 Dodge Journey (known electrical and transmission issues)
- 2012 Ford Edge (some Ecoboost engine and transmission concerns)
Comparable To
- 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe (good value, some engine/transmission recalls)
- 2012 Mazda CX-7 (turbo engine issues, not CVT related)
Safety Recalls on the 2012 Nissan Murano
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 MURANO AND ROGUE VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 23, 2011 THROUGH JANUARY 11, 2012. DURING ASSEMBLY, THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) WAS NOT ACTIVATED. THUS, THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 138,TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM.
What breaks on the 2012 Nissan Murano?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Nissan Murano — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Nissan Murano. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2012s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2012 Nissan Murano
Parts and accessories matched to your 2012 Nissan Murano
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Frequently Asked Questions
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