The 2008 Nissan Murano is noted for various issues including significant transmission troubles, particularly with its continuously variable transmission (CVT), which faces frequent slipping and hesitation. Reports indicate around a 60% satisfaction rate regarding this aspect. Electrical problems are recurrent, leading to battery drain, with a 70% satisfaction rate. Additionally, owners experience brake fluid leaks and premature suspension wear. Recall concerns include fuel system leaks and airbag malfunctions. Despite these challenges, about 70% of owners recommend the vehicle, often citing its spacious interior and engine performance. Understanding these factors is critical for prospective buyers. Further insights await your exploration.
Overview of the 2008 Murano
The 2008 Nissan Murano is a standout midsize crossover with unique styling and a comfortable interior. It features a bold front with a prominent grille and sleek headlights. Built on Nissan's D platform, it offers good stability and handling.
It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 240 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth acceleration and better fuel efficiency. It gets about 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Inside, the Murano has a roomy cabin with quality materials and an easy-to-use layout. It seats up to five people comfortably, with ample legroom in the back seats.
Standard features include dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker audio system, and an adjustable steering wheel. Higher trims offer extras like leather seats, heated front seats, and a premium audio system.
Safety features include front-seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, and electronic stability control, making it a secure vehicle.
The 2008 Murano offers a mix of style, comfort, and performance, suitable for families and individuals looking for a reliable vehicle.
Common problems reported for the 2008 Murano
Problems Reported for the 2008 Nissan Murano
Transmission Issues
The 2008 Nissan Murano often has trouble with its CVT, or continuously variable transmission. Many owners say it slips or hesitates when accelerating. This can make the car less reliable and might even cause a breakdown. Satisfaction with the transmission is low, around 60%.
Electrical System Problems
Battery drain is another issue. It happens fairly often and usually means the battery needs to be jump-started a lot. This doesn't always affect how the car runs, but it can be annoying for owners. Satisfaction is about 70%.
Braking System Concerns
There have been some reports of brake fluid leaks, but these are less common now. Signs include warning lights and weaker brakes, which can make it harder to stop quickly. Satisfaction with brakes is higher, at about 80%.
Suspension Issues
Many owners talk about struts and shocks wearing out too soon, which is a moderate concern. This can lead to noisy rides and uneven tire wear, affecting comfort and handling. Satisfaction here is around 65%.
Air Conditioning Problems
The air conditioning system, especially the compressor, can fail moderately often. Owners may notice the cooling isn't effective, or hear strange noises. This affects comfort inside the car, with satisfaction around 75%.
Fuel System Failures
Fuel pump issues aren't as frequent, but they can be serious. Problems include the engine stalling or trouble starting the car. Satisfaction in this area is about 70%.
Interior Features Issues
Dashboard cracking is a common complaint and is being reported more often. While it mostly affects looks, it lowers the appeal of the car. Satisfaction here is low, at 50%.
Recall information specific to the 2008 Murano
Owners of the 2008 Nissan Murano should know about some recalls that might affect their car's safety and performance.
These recalls deal with problems that could be dangerous for both drivers and passengers. Staying updated on these recalls helps keep the car safe to drive.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued several recalls for the 2008 Murano.
Here are the main issues:
- Fuel System Leaks: Some models might have fuel leaks, which can increase the chance of a fire.
- Airbag Malfunctions: Problems with the airbag system might stop them from deploying in a crash, putting passenger safety at risk.
- Transmission Problems: Some cars had transmission failures, which could cause a sudden loss of power while driving.
- Brake Issues: There were reports of brake failures that could reduce stopping power, making accidents more likely.
Nissan has taken steps to fix these recalls, sending notifications and setting up repair programs.
Owners should reach out to their local dealerships or Nissan directly to check if their car is affected.
Checking the VIN on the NHTSA website can also show if there are any recalls and what actions to take.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2008 model
Owner reviews of the 2008 Nissan Murano show mixed feelings about how it performs and how reliable it is. Many owners like the roomy inside, comfy seats, and cool tech features for its time. The 3.5-liter V6 engine gives a good mix of power and fuel efficiency, getting about 20-24 miles per gallon, which is pretty good compared to others in its class.
But there are some worries too. Some people have issues with the transmission and all-wheel-drive system. Drivers have reported problems with shifting or delays, which can make driving less enjoyable. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is meant to be smooth, but some owners have had trouble with its durability and faced expensive repairs.
Satisfaction with the 2008 Murano varies. Many people have had a good experience, mentioning reliability and resale value as plus points. Yet, some reviews talk about problems with mechanical failures and high maintenance costs.
According to Consumer Reports, about 70% of owners would tell others to buy it, showing that most people like it despite the issues.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Murano model years
The Nissan Murano has changed a lot over the years with updates in design, technology, and performance. When the first model came out in 2003, it introduced a new SUV style, focusing on a sleek look and comfort.
But, these early Muranos had some problems, especially with their transmissions.
In 2009, the second generation of Murano made some big improvements. It came with a stronger 3.5-liter V6 engine that offered 265 horsepower and better fuel efficiency. New safety features like an optional rearview camera and more airbags made it safer for passengers.
By 2015, the Murano got a new design with a nicer interior, better infotainment systems, and all-wheel-drive options. This made it popular with more people.
However, some owners noticed issues with electrical systems and infotainment in the 2015 and 2016 models.
From 2019 onward, Murano models focused on better technology, adding features like Nissan's ProPilot Assist and more connectivity options.
Still, some reviews say there weren't many performance upgrades, making buyers question its value.
Tips for buying a used 2008 Murano
When you're thinking about buying a used 2008 Nissan Murano, it's important to check a few things to make sure it's a good buy. This model has a roomy inside and a smooth ride, but there are some things to watch out for.
First, check the car's service records. If the previous owner kept up with regular maintenance, it shows they took care of the car. Look closely at the timing belt, as it's key for the engine's health.
Next, look over the car's outside and inside. Check for rust, dents, or mismatched paint. Inside, see if the seats or dashboard look worn out, which might mean the car wasn't well cared for.
Then, take the car for a drive. Listen for any strange sounds and see how it handles when you speed up, brake, or turn. A car that drives smoothly has likely been well-kept.
Finally, think about having a trusted mechanic look at the car before you buy it. They can spot any problems you might miss.
- Check the car's service records
- Look over the outside and inside
- Take it for a drive
- Have a mechanic inspect it before buying
Maintenance recommendations for the 2008 Murano
To keep your 2008 Nissan Murano running well, you need to do regular maintenance. This helps your car work better and last longer. Some key things to do are changing the oil, checking the brakes, and looking at the tires. These steps help avoid common problems with the Murano.
Here's a table with when to do certain maintenance jobs:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Brake Inspection | Every 12,000 miles |
| Tire Rotation | Every 5,000-7,500 miles |
| Coolant Flush | Every 60,000 miles |
Oil changes are needed to keep the engine working smoothly and to stop it from wearing out. Check the brakes often to see if the pads or rotors are worn out, as this could make it harder to stop the car. Rotating the tires helps them wear evenly, which makes the car handle better and use less fuel. Flushing the coolant helps to stop the engine from getting too hot and prevents rust inside.
Also, change the timing belt every 105,000 miles to avoid damage to the engine. Look at the battery and electrical system regularly to make sure the car starts and works well. Following these tips helps your 2008 Murano stay in good shape and run smoothly.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Regular upkeep helps the 2008 Nissan Murano last longer and affects its resale value and costs over time. This SUV has mixed reviews about being a good long-term investment. This depends a lot on how well it's looked after.
The Murano's resale value is usually good compared to others in its class, but things like mileage, condition, and service records can change this. Kelley Blue Book says cars with full service records usually keep their value better.
Owning a car long-term involves costs like fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. If a Murano is well-kept, it typically has fewer surprise expenses, which makes owning it a better experience.
| Cost Component | Average Annual Cost | Impact on Resale Value |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | $500 | High |
| Insurance | $1,200 | Moderate |
| Fuel | $1,500 | Low |
Regular maintenance can lower repair costs and make the car easier to sell. Owners with detailed service records can often sell for a higher price.
People Also Ask
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 2008 Nissan Murano?
The 2008 Nissan Murano gets about 18 miles per gallon when driving in the city and around 23 miles per gallon on the highway. This can change based on how you drive and take care of the car.
Are There Any Aftermarket Modifications Recommended for the 2008 Murano?
For the 2008 Nissan Murano, you can make it better by adding a new exhaust for more power, improving the suspension for smoother rides, and getting a cool infotainment system for better music and phone features. Always ask experts to help with these changes.
How Does the 2008 Murano Perform in Winter Weather Conditions?
The 2008 Murano works well in winter because it has all-wheel drive and good ground clearance. But, to be really safe and have good grip on snowy roads, it's important to use winter tires. They help the car stop and turn better in the snow.
What Are the Best Tires for the 2008 Nissan Murano?
The best tires for a 2008 Nissan Murano are all-season ones like the Michelin Defender or Bridgestone Dueler. These tires give good grip, last a long time, and are comfy to drive in all kinds of weather, even in winter.
How Does the 2008 Murano Compare to Competitors in Safety Ratings?
The 2008 Nissan Murano is a safe choice for a mid-size SUV. It did well in crash tests and has important safety features like stability control and lots of airbags. This makes it a good and reliable option when compared to other similar cars.
Wrapping Up
The 2008 Nissan Murano presents a range of common issues, including transmission failures and electrical system malfunctions, which have led to various recalls aimed at addressing these concerns. Owner reviews reflect a mixed satisfaction rate, with praise for comfort and performance juxtaposed against reliability criticisms. Compared to earlier and later models, the 2008 Murano exhibits unique challenges. Prospective buyers should prioritize thorough inspections and maintenance records to mitigate potential ownership costs. Awareness of these factors is essential for informed decision-making.