By Jude Knox The 2012 Nissan Murano faces several reliability challenges, impacting owner satisfaction. Key issues include transmission problems, with 65% driver satisfaction due to slipping gears. Electrical system failures contribute to a 70% satisfaction rate, primarily linked to battery drain.
Owners report braking inefficiencies from soft pedals, leading to longer stopping distances and contributing to a 60% satisfaction rating. Recalls highlight potential fuel gauge inaccuracies and airbag failures, raising safety concerns.
Despite these challenges, the vehicle offers commendable interior space and decent fuel efficiency.
Overview of the 2012 Murano
The 2012 Nissan Murano is a midsize crossover SUV with a sleek look and comfy inside, great for families and solo drivers. Its design includes smooth lines and a standout grille, making it look fancier than many others in its class.
It runs on a strong 3.5-liter V6 engine that gives 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The engine works with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a smooth ride. It gets about 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway.
Inside, there’s enough space for five people and the materials used are high quality, adding to the comfort.
The cabin has an easy-to-use infotainment system with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and optional navigation.
There’s plenty of cargo space too—31.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which grows to 64.5 cubic feet when you fold the seats down.
Safety features in the 2012 Murano include several airbags, stability control, and antilock brakes. It received good crash test scores, making it a strong option for those with families.
This model is a good choice in the midsize SUV market, offering a good mix of performance, comfort, and safety.
Common problems reported for the 2012 Murano
Common Problems Reported for the 2012 Nissan Murano
Transmission Issues
Many 2012 Murano owners report transmission problems, mainly slipping gears. This leads to unexpected speed changes, making it hard to control the car.
The problem happens moderately often and hasn’t changed much over time. About 65% of drivers are satisfied with the transmission.
Electrical System Problems
Battery drain is a common electrical issue. More and more drivers find their car won’t start or other electrical parts fail.
This greatly affects how reliably the car starts, with a satisfaction rate of 70%.
Braking System
The brake pedal often feels soft for Murano drivers. This means the brakes take longer to work, making stopping less effective.
This issue happens moderately often and hasn’t changed much. Satisfaction with the brakes is at 60%.
Suspension Issues
Some drivers experience early wear on their car’s struts, leading to a noisy ride and uneven tire wear.
This affects how the car handles and feels. While not common, reports of this problem are increasing. Satisfaction with the ride quality is around 75%.
Engine Problems
Murano drivers sometimes deal with high oil consumption. They see warning lights and need to change the oil more often, which could harm the engine.
This problem happens with moderate frequency, and 68% of drivers are satisfied.
Air Conditioning Problems
Weak cooling is a frequent complaint about the air conditioning. Many owners feel the cooling isn’t enough and hear strange noises from the unit.
This problem is common and increasing, affecting passenger comfort. Satisfaction is at 67%.
Fuel System Issues
Fuel pump failures are less common but serious. They cause the engine to stall and make starting hard.
Though not frequent, these issues lead to big performance problems, with 72% satisfaction.
Recall information specific to the 2012 Murano
Owners of the 2012 Nissan Murano should be aware of recalls that might affect their vehicles. These recalls are important for keeping the car safe and running well.
The main recalls for the 2012 Murano are:
- Fuel Gauge Issue: The fuel gauge might not show the correct amount of fuel. This can cause drivers to run out of fuel without warning. It’s a good idea to get this checked to avoid being stuck on the road.
- Airbag Problem: There could be a problem with the airbags. In a crash, they might not work correctly, which could be dangerous. It’s recommended to have this fixed to ensure safety.
- Transmission Issue: Some models have a risk of transmission failure, which could cause the car to lose power while driving. This can be risky and should be addressed quickly.
If you own a 2012 Murano, check with your local dealership to see if your car needs these recall repairs.
Taking care of these issues helps keep you and your passengers safe.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2012 model
Owners of the 2012 Nissan Murano have mixed feelings about their cars. Many like the big, comfy inside of the Murano. They often mention the roomy leg space and good storage. The easy-to-use infotainment system and the nice materials inside also get thumbs up. These things make the car feel high-quality to many.
But, there are some problems that make owners less happy. A lot of people talk about issues with the transmission and engine. Some drivers notice a delay when they try to speed up, which makes them worry about how reliable the car is. Some also say the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) makes strange sounds and doesn’t have enough power, especially when trying to merge onto highways.
Safety is a strong point, as the 2012 Murano did well in crash tests. This makes owners feel more confident. Yet, some are not pleased with how much fuel the car uses, especially when they compare it to other midsize crossovers.
Surveys show about 70% of owners would tell others to buy the 2012 Murano, even with its issues. This group seems to appreciate comfort and design more than how the car performs or how reliable it is.
While the 2012 Nissan Murano is liked for its comfort and features, potential buyers should be aware of the issues it may have.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Murano model years
The Nissan Murano has changed over the years to meet what people want and what new technology offers. Early models, like those from 2003 to 2007, had a unique style and lots of space inside. But, they didn’t do well on gas mileage, getting around 20 miles per gallon combined.
In 2012, the Murano got a bit better on fuel, reaching about 24 miles per gallon. This was due to improvements in its 3.5-liter V6 engine. The 2012 model also had better safety ratings and a more advanced infotainment system, meeting the demand for tech features.
Later models, like those from 2015 and 2018, looked more modern and included new safety features, such as Nissan’s Safety Shield. These changes made owners happier.
However, these models also had more reports of transmission and electrical problems, which concerned some buyers.
The 2020 Murano continued with a slick design and better technology, but some people were disappointed it didn’t offer a hybrid version, unlike competitors like the Honda Passport.
Each Murano model year has its own good and bad points, so it’s wise for buyers to check specific year-related reliability information.
Tips for buying a used 2012 Murano
When you’re looking at a used 2012 Nissan Murano, it’s key to do some checks and research to make sure you’re making a good choice.
This car is stylish, comfortable, and packed with tech, but there are some known issues to watch out for.
Here are three things you should do:
- Look for Recalls and Service Records: Check if there are any recalls for the 2012 Murano and see if the previous owner got them fixed. A full service record can show you how well the car was looked after.
- Get a Mechanical Check-Up: Have a skilled mechanic check the car over. Pay close attention to the CVT, which can be problematic in this model. If the transmission fluid hasn’t been changed recently, it might need doing.
- See What Others Say: Read reviews from other owners and check reliability ratings from trusted sites like J.D. Power or Consumer Reports. Look out for common problems like electrical issues or wear and tear inside the car.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2012 Murano
Taking care of your 2012 Nissan Murano helps it last longer and perform well. Here’s a simple guide to keep it running smoothly:
- Oil Changes: Change the engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Use the oil type recommended by Nissan. This keeps the engine working well.
- Tire Care: Check tire pressure and tread depth regularly. Rotate the tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This helps them wear evenly and last longer.
- Brake Inspection: Look at the brake pads every 10,000 miles. Change them if they’re worn out to keep the brakes working safely.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 5,000 – 7,500 miles | Keeps engine working well |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000 – 7,500 miles | Helps tires last longer |
| Brake Inspection | Every 10,000 miles | Keeps brakes safe |
Check the air filter and replace it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. This helps with good air intake and fuel use. Look at fluid levels, like coolant and transmission fluid, regularly and add more if needed. Follow the service schedule in the owner’s manual to avoid big repairs and keep the car in good shape. Regular maintenance keeps the car valuable and enjoyable to drive.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Keeping a 2012 Nissan Murano in good shape helps it run well and keeps its value high. A car that’s taken care of is worth more when you want to sell it, and the Murano is known for holding value. Its strong resale value comes from being reliable and having happy owners.
Owning a Murano over many years involves costs like losing value, fixing things, paying for insurance, and buying gas. On average, a Murano loses about half its value after five years, which is pretty good compared to similar cars. It also gets decent gas mileage, with 21 miles per gallon in the city and 28 on the highway, so gas costs aren’t too high.
Here’s a look at what affects resale value and long-term costs:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Depreciation | 50% after 5 years |
| Fuel Economy | 21 MPG city / 28 MPG highway |
| Annual Maintenance Costs | Approximately $500 – $800 |
| Insurance Costs | Average annual premium around $1,200 |
| Reliability Rating | 4 out of 5 (Consumer Reports) |
Regular check-ups and quick fixes when issues pop up keep the 2012 Murano running longer and worth more. Taking care of it means a better time owning it and a good return when selling.
People Also Ask
What Are the Engine Options Available for the 2012 Nissan Murano?
The 2012 Nissan Murano comes with one engine option: a 3.5-liter V6 engine that gives 260 horsepower. It also has a special type of transmission called CVT, which helps the car drive smoothly and use fuel efficiently.
How Does the 2012 Murano Perform in Crash Tests?
The 2012 Nissan Murano did well in crash tests. It got good ratings for front and side impacts. Its strong design and safety features help keep people safe and make them feel secure while driving.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2012 Nissan Murano?
The 2012 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 boats. It’s a good choice for people who need to tow things for fun or light work.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the 2012 Murano?
For the 2012 Nissan Murano, you can add a new exhaust system to make it sound cooler and run better. You might also upgrade the suspension to handle bumps smoothly. Custom floor mats can protect the car and look nice too!
What Are Common Complaints About the 2012 Murano’s Interior Features?
People often complain about the 2012 Murano’s interior because of the low-quality materials, not enough storage space, and uncomfortable design. Many also find the infotainment system slow and hard to use.