Is the 2018 Nissan Murano reliable?

It can be a dependable midsize SUV with consistent maintenance, but reliability perceptions are largely influenced by the CVT’s long-term track record and occasional electronics complaints.

What are the most common 2018 Nissan Murano problems?

The most reported issues include CVT shuddering/hesitation, infotainment or camera glitches, premature brake wear or brake vibration, and suspension noises as mileage increases.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2018 Murano?

Costs are generally moderate for a midsize SUV with a V6, but budgeting for proactive CVT fluid service and quality brakes is smart, since transmission repairs can be expensive if problems develop.

What are the best years to buy in the Murano lineup?

Many shoppers prefer later third-generation models (2017–2020) for updated features and refinement, but the best choice depends on service history, mileage, and whether CVT maintenance has been documented.

What should I check before buying a used 2018 Nissan Murano?

Test-drive it fully warmed up and at highway speeds for CVT shudder or surging, confirm smooth acceleration, check that all infotainment and cameras work consistently, inspect brake feel for pulsation, and review service records for CVT fluid changes and routine maintenance. For deeper ownership confidence, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedules for the 2018 Nissan Murano.

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

2018 Nissan Murano Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable cruiser undermined by its potentially problematic transmission, requiring proactive ownership.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2018 Nissan Murano

Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the back over prevention: sensing system: camera.
Scores 11 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2020 Nissan Murano earns a 79.
The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 2018 Nissan Murano?

The 2018 Nissan Murano offers a comfortable ride and a robust V6 engine, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a mid-size crossover. However, its Achilles' heel remains the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which introduces significant long-term reliability risks that buyers must thoroughly understand and budget for. This isn't a 'set it and forget it' vehicle; active maintenance and a keen ear for transmission behavior are crucial.

Biggest Strengths

Smooth V6 engine performance (VQ35DE)
Refined and comfortable interior for its class
Soft, compliant ride quality on various surfaces

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2018 Nissan Murano. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)critical

HVAC Systemmoderate

Suspension Componentsmoderate

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

NHTSA Recalls

2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.

What breaks on the 2018 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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