By Jude Knox The 2005 Nissan Murano showcases a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 245 horsepower, yet it is plagued by significant issues. Common problems include frequent CVT failures, leading to slipping and loss of acceleration, impacting owner satisfaction at only 45%.
Electrical system malfunctions and excessive oil consumption present further challenges. Safety recalls primarily address fuel delivery faults and airbag deployment risks. Despite a reasonable resale value of about $6,500, potential buyers should conduct thorough inspections and review maintenance histories.
Overview of the 2005 Murano
The 2005 Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its unique look and flexible performance. It catches attention in the SUV market with a smooth exterior and a bold front grille. The curved body design not only looks good but also helps with aerodynamics, which improves fuel efficiency.
The Murano comes with a strong 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering 245 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. It has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth driving and better fuel economy, reaching about 20 miles per gallon in the city and 25 on the highway. The all-wheel-drive option gives better grip, suitable for many driving conditions.
Inside, the Murano offers comfort and technology. The cabin is spacious for up to five people, with plenty of legroom and cargo space. It includes features like a six-disc CD changer, an optional premium sound system, and available navigation technology.
Compared to others like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Murano has a stronger engine and a special design, though it might have less cargo space.
It’s a good option for those looking for style, performance, and comfort in a crossover.
Common problems reported for the 2005 Murano
| Component/System | Specific Issues | Frequency of Occurrence | Trends/Changes Over Time | How the Problem Manifests | Impact on Performance | Consumer Satisfaction (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission | CVT failure | High | Increased over years | Slipping, shuddering, loss of acceleration | Poor acceleration, engine strain | 45% |
| Electrical System | Battery drain issues | Moderate | Stable | Warning lights, difficulty starting | Inconsistent starting, electrical failures | 60% |
| Suspension | Strut and shock absorber wear | Moderate | Increased over years | Noisy ride, uneven tire wear | Reduced ride quality | 55% |
| Engine | Oil consumption issues | High | Increased in later years | Blue smoke from exhaust, oil light on | Poor engine performance, potential damage | 50% |
| Braking System | Brake pedal issues | Moderate | Stable | Spongy brakes, longer stopping distance | Reduced braking efficiency | 58% |
| Climate Control | A/C compressor failure | Moderate | Increased over years | No cold air, unusual noises | Discomfort, potential engine load increase | 62% |
| Interior Components | Dashboard cracking | High | Persistent | Cracks, fading appearance | Decreased aesthetic value | 65% |
Issues Reported for the 2005 Murano
Transmission:
The 2005 Nissan Murano often has problems with its CVT transmission. Owners report issues like slipping, shuddering, and losing acceleration. These problems have become more frequent over time and affect how the car performs. It leads to slow acceleration and stress on the engine. Satisfaction with the transmission is low, at about 45%.
Electrical System:
There are moderate issues with the car’s battery draining. Symptoms include warning lights and trouble starting the vehicle. These problems have been consistent over time. They can cause starting issues and electrical failures, which can be frustrating for car owners. Consumer satisfaction is around 60%.
Suspension:
The suspension system, including the struts and shock absorbers, shows moderate wear. This results in a noisy ride and uneven tire wear, and it has been getting worse over the years. These issues lead to a less comfortable ride. The satisfaction level here is 55%.
Engine:
The engine has high oil consumption problems. Many owners notice blue smoke from the exhaust and see the oil warning light come on. This issue has grown more common in later years. It can result in poor engine performance and possible damage. Satisfaction in this area is at 50%.
Braking System:
There are moderate issues with the brakes, particularly with the brake pedal. Owners experience symptoms like spongy brakes and longer stopping times. This affects braking efficiency and safety. Satisfaction is about 58%.
Climate Control:
The A/C system has moderate issues with the compressor failing. This causes a lack of cold air and strange noises. It can make rides uncomfortable and might put extra load on the engine. Satisfaction here is around 62%.
Interior Components:
The dashboard of the 2005 Murano often cracks and fades. This issue persists for many owners. It mainly affects the look of the car, not its performance. Satisfaction with the interior is at 65%.
Recall information specific to the 2005 Murano
The 2005 Nissan Murano has faced several recalls for safety and performance issues. These recalls help ensure the vehicle is safe to drive. Owners should be aware of these issues to keep their cars safe.
Here are the key recalls for the 2005 Murano:
- Fuel System Problems: Some models had fuel delivery issues, which could lead to leaks and fire risks.
- Airbag Issues: A defect in the airbag system might prevent airbags from deploying in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Brake Problems: Some vehicles had issues with the brake master cylinder, which could reduce braking performance.
Nissan has a process to notify owners and fix these problems at no cost. Owners should check their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to see if their car is affected.
Besides recalls, regular maintenance checks can improve the vehicle’s performance and safety. Keeping up with recalls and maintenance can make the 2005 Murano more reliable.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2005 model
Owner reviews for the 2005 Murano show mixed feelings. Many people like the car’s stylish look and roomy inside. They often mention the comfy seats and big storage space. The 3.5-liter V6 engine, with 240 horsepower, gets good feedback for strong performance and smooth driving.
It works well in both city and highway settings. Fuel efficiency is around 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, which is decent for a midsize SUV.
On the downside, some issues keep coming up in reviews. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) seems to be a common problem. Some drivers experience unexpected failures or jerking when accelerating. There are also reports of electrical problems, mainly with power windows and door locks, which can be frustrating.
Satisfaction levels for the 2005 Murano vary. Many drivers recommend it for comfort and style. But they also warn about maintenance needs. Surveys suggest about 70% of owners are generally happy, though satisfaction drops when reliability is considered.
The all-wheel-drive (AWD) option in some trims is a plus for those dealing with different weather conditions.
While the 2005 Murano is appealing for its design and performance, buyers should consider its reliability issues when deciding.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Murano model years
The 2005 Nissan Murano brought several changes compared to older and newer models. It had a sleek and modern look, moving away from the boxy shape of earlier versions. This new shape not only looked better but also helped the car move smoothly through the air.
In terms of technology, the 2005 Murano came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that offered 245 horsepower. It used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smoother rides, unlike earlier models with regular automatic transmissions. New options like a rearview camera and better audio systems made the driving experience more enjoyable.
Later models of the Murano kept improving. Starting in 2009, safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warnings were added. By 2015, the Murano had a stronger 3.5-liter engine with 260 horsepower, balancing power and fuel efficiency.
The inside of the car got better over the years too, with nicer materials and more space. However, some people have had problems with the CVT in newer models, which raises questions about how long it will last.
Tips for buying a used 2005 Murano
If you’re thinking about buying a used 2005 Murano, pay attention to a few key things. This model is popular for its look and how it drives, but keep an eye out for possible issues that come with age. Here are some tips to help you:
- Check Vehicle History: Get a full vehicle history report. Make sure the car has a clean title and look for any past accidents or big repairs. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can give you important details.
- Look for Common Issues: The 2005 Murano might have problems, especially with the transmission and CVT. Take the car for a test drive and listen for strange sounds or stalling. It’s a good idea to have a pro check for any hidden mechanical problems.
- Ask for Maintenance Records: Ask to see the maintenance records. This will show you how well the car has been taken care of. Regular oil changes, transmission checks, and tire rotations mean the owner was careful. Be wary if the maintenance history seems irregular.
These tips can help you when buying a 2005 Nissan Murano. Always consider your needs and make sure the car fits what you’re looking for.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2005 Murano
To keep your 2005 Nissan Murano running well, follow this maintenance guide. Doing these tasks regularly can help avoid big repair bills.
Here’s what to do and how often:
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000 – 5,000 miles | Use synthetic oil. |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 – 7,500 miles | Helps tires wear evenly. |
| Brake Fluid Replacement | Every 2 years | Keeps brakes working well. |
| Air Filter Replacement | Every 15,000 miles | Helps the engine run smoothly. |
| Spark Plug Replacement | Every 105,000 miles | Keeps the engine efficient. |
Check fluid levels often, like coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Look at belts and hoses to make sure they aren’t worn out.
Wash and wax the car to prevent rust and keep it looking nice.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
The 2005 Nissan Murano holds its value well compared to similar vehicles. This is because people know it for being reliable and comfortable. It’s a midsize SUV with a nice interior and good performance, which makes it appealing.
The resale value depends on things like how many miles it has, its condition, and how many people want it.
Thinking about the cost of owning the car for a long time is important. The Murano does pretty well with gas, getting about 20-24 miles per gallon, depending on how you drive it. Maintenance costs are also reasonable, averaging about $500 each year.
This makes it competitive with cars like the Honda CR-V and Ford Edge. Here’s a look at some numbers comparing the Nissan Murano with these other cars:
| Vehicle Model | Average Resale Value | Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 Nissan Murano | $6,500 | $500 |
| 2005 Honda CR-V | $7,200 | $450 |
| 2005 Ford Edge | $5,800 | $600 |
People Also Ask
What Are the Best Aftermarket Parts for a 2005 Murano?
For a 2005 Murano, choose good brands like AEM for air intakes, EBC for brake pads, and KYB for shocks. These parts help your car run better and last longer. They make your car safer and more fun to drive!
How Does the 2005 Murano Perform in Snowy Conditions?
The 2005 Murano is good in snow because it has all-wheel drive, which helps with grip. Its weight is spread out nicely, too. But, using the right tires is really important for staying safe. Also, keeping the car in good shape helps a lot.
Are There Common Modifications for the 2005 Murano?
People often modify a 2005 Murano by upgrading the suspension for better handling, adding new wheels and tires for more grip, and using performance chips to make the engine work better. These changes make the car look cooler and work better.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2005 Murano?
The 2005 Nissan Murano can tow up to 3,500 pounds if it has the right equipment. This means it can pull things like small trailers or some fun outdoor gear. It’s a handy car for different fun activities!
How Does the 2005 Murano Handle in Off-Road Situations?
The 2005 Murano is mainly for driving on roads. It has all-wheel drive to help with grip, but it doesn’t have the strong suspension or high clearance like real off-road cars. So, it’s not great for tough off-road trails.