2017 Nissan Murano Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2017 Nissan Murano
- Outscores the 2018 Nissan Murano by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: cvt transmission (critical severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip.
2017 Nissan Murano: Buy or Avoid?
The 2017 Nissan Murano offers a comfortable, stylish ride with a strong V6 engine, making it an attractive used SUV. However, its longevity is fundamentally tied to the health of its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which poses the most significant long-term reliability risk. This vehicle can be a solid choice for those who understand and mitigate the known CVT vulnerabilities through diligent maintenance and a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
The 2017 Nissan Murano offers a compelling package of style, comfort, and V6 power, but its long-term reliability hinges almost entirely on its CVT transmission. While the rest of the vehicle is generally solid, the potential for a catastrophic and expensive CVT failure means this is not a 'set it and forget it' pur…
Best Model Years
2018-2020 (Nissan made some refinements to the CVT and infotainment)
Years to Avoid
2015-2016 (earliest 3rd-gen models, potentially more pronounced CVT issues)
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth and powerful VQ35DE V6 engine
- Comfortable and quiet interior with good ergonomics
- Distinctive styling and premium feel for its class
2017 Nissan Murano — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 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 Jatco CVT (JF017E) is the primary concern. Common failures include shuddering, loss of acceleration, overheating, and complete internal failure due to belt or pulley wear. This is often exacerbated by neglected fluid changes or aggre…
Owners frequently report premature wear of front lower control arm bushings, strut mounts, and wheel bearings, leading to clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and compromised handling. This can occur earlier than expected, especially in re…
Issues range from infotainment screen freezing or touch-response failures to dashboard warning lights (e.g., ABS, TPMS) due to faulty sensors or wiring. Body Control Module (BCM) glitches are also reported, affecting various accessories.
2017 Nissan Murano Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 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 oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements. Some early infotainment quirks or sensor issues might start to appear.
Maintenance Zone
This is a critical interval for the CVT. If not already done, a CVT fluid drain/fill is paramount. Also expect typical wear items like brakes and tires. Suspension components might begin to show early signs of wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of CVT issues significantly increases here if proper maintenance has been neglected. Suspension components like control arms or wheel bearings are more likely to need replacement. Continue diligent fluid changes.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, the likelihood of a major CVT failure becomes very high. Budget for this possibility. Other age-related failures across various systems (alternator, starter, AC compressor) also become more probable.
2017 Nissan Murano Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Nissan Murano on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (suspension, electrical)
How Long Does the 2017 Nissan Murano Last?
Prioritize vehicles with documented, frequent CVT fluid changes every 30,000-40,000 miles, and be prepared for potential transmission work beyond 100,000 miles, regardless of prior maintenance.
What 2017 Nissan Murano Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Extremely comfortable and plush ride quality, especially on long trips.
- Powerful 3.5L V6 engine provides ample acceleration for highway merging.
- Stylish and unique exterior design that stands out in the SUV crowd.
- Spacious and quiet cabin with premium materials for its price point.
Common Frustrations
- CVT performance can feel sluggish or 'rubbery' during aggressive driving, and reliability is a major concern.
- Subpar fuel economy for a mid-size crossover, especially considering the CVT.
- Rear visibility can be limited due to the vehicle's styling and thick D-pillars.
- Infotainment screen occasionally freezes or acts erratically, requiring a restart.
Who Should Buy the 2017 Nissan Murano?
Best For
- Buyers prioritizing ride comfort and interior quietness for daily commuting.
- Families seeking a spacious and stylish crossover for highway cruising.
- Drivers who appreciate V6 power and aren't bothered by the CVT's driving dynamics.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking absolute, worry-free long-term reliability without proactive maintenance.
- Those on a very tight budget for potential major repairs, especially a transmission.
How the 2017 Nissan Murano Compares to Rivals
The Murano's comfort and V6 power are competitive, but its CVT often places it below segment leaders like the Highlander or Pilot in long-term reliability due to the higher risk of a very expensive transmission failure.
More Reliable Than
- Jeep Cherokee (earlier ZF 9-speed transmission issues)
- Volkswagen Tiguan (higher repair costs for certain components)
- Cadillac XT5 (some complex electrical issues)
Comparable To
- Ford Edge (similar comfort, some transmission quirks in earlier models)
- Hyundai Santa Fe (good value, some engine/transmission recalls in specific years)
- Subaru Outback (stronger AWD, but also uses a CVT with its own set of considerations)
Safety Recalls on the 2017 Nissan Murano
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Nissan Murano, 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima, 2017-2018 Nissan Pathfinder, and 2017 Infiniti QX60 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Nissan Maxima vehicles manufactured February 10, 2015, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, 2015-2017 Murano vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to August 19, 2016 and equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control, and 2015-2016 Murano Hybrid vehicles manufactured August 22, 2014, to July 19, 2016. The affected vehicles have Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) actuator pumps that may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal electrical circuit board.
What breaks on the 2017 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 2017s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Nissan Murano
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Frequently Asked Questions
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