2011 Nissan Murano: Pros, Cons and What You Need to Know Before Buying

Crossover Nissan Murano The 2011 model year is a car that still attracts interest from buyers on the secondary market. Combining a spacious interior, a powerful engine and stylish design, this model has become one of the most popular in the Japanese brand's lineup. However, like any used car, Murano 2011 has its own characteristics that you should know about before purchasing.

In this article we will analyze the technical characteristics, typical problems, operating nuances and give practical advice to those who are considering Nissan Murano Z51 (second generation) as an option for purchase. We will place special emphasis on unique “diseases” of the model, which are often silent in standard reviews.

Technical specifications Nissan Murano 2011

Under the hood Murano In 2011, the only engine installed was a gasoline one. V6 VQ35DE volume 3.5 liters. Known for its reliability, this engine delivers power 265 hp at 6000 rpm and torque 336 Nm at 4400 rpm. Transmission - continuously variable variator Jatco JF011E, which at the time of release was considered one of the most advanced in its class.

Drive Murano maybe like the front (2WD), and complete (4WD with the system All-Mode 4x4-i). Combined cycle fuel consumption is approx. 11-12 l/100 km, which for a car of this class and weight (about 1.8 tons) is considered an acceptable indicator. Maximum speed - 210 km/h, acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 8.5 seconds.

• 🔧 Engine: V6 VQ35DE, 3.5 l, 265 hp
• ⚙️ Transmission: variator JF011E (6 virtual transmissions)
• 🛣️ Drive: 2WD or 4WD with system All-Mode 4x4-i
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 11-14 l/100 km (city/highway)
• 📏 Dimensions: 4855×1900×1720 mm, wheelbase 2825 mm

Suspension Murano independent: front - MacPherson, rear - multi-link. This provides good handling and comfort, but the car is not intended for serious off-road use. Ground clearance is 180 mm, which is enough for urban conditions and light off-roading.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the reliability of the engine VQ35DE, y Nissan Murano 2011 has several “diseases” that are worth paying attention to when purchasing. One of the most common problems is oil leak from under the valve cover. This is due to wear of the gaskets and requires replacement approximately every 100-150 thousand km.

Another common problem is problems with the variator. Although JF011E considered one of the most reliable variators Nissan, in case of untimely oil change (recommended interval - 60 thousand km) jerking, slipping and even failure may occur. It is especially critical to monitor the condition of the variator if the car was operated in frequent traffic jams or towing a trailer..

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Murano with mileage over 150 thousand km Be sure to check the oil change history of the variator. If there are no records, be prepared for expensive repairs (from 150 thousand rubles and above).

• 🛢️ Oil leak: valve covers, crankshaft seals, rear variator seal
• 🔄 CVT: jerks during acceleration, slipping, noise of bearings
• 🔥 Cooling system: radiator leak, thermostat failure
• 🎛️ Electronics: problems with ABS sensors, malfunctions of the climate control unit
• 🚗 Suspension: wear of stabilizer struts, silent blocks of levers

Owners also often complain about corrosion of sills and arches, especially if the car was operated in regions with abundant use of reagents. Check these areas for rust - repairs can cost a fortune.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Opinions about Nissan Murano 2011 are divided, but most owners note comfort, spacious interior and reliable engine as the main advantages. Many praise the car for its soft suspension, good sound insulation and powerful engine that pulls easily even at high speeds.

The most frequently mentioned disadvantages are:

1. High fuel consumption - in the city it can reach 14-16 l/100 km.
2. Expensive service — original spare parts and oil for the variator are not cheap.
3. Low traffic - despite all-wheel drive, Murano not intended for serious off-road use.
4. Electronics problems — over time, glitches with sensors and on-board computer may occur.

Here are some real reviews from the forums:

“The car is simply super! In 5 years of operation it has never failed. The engine is like a clock, the variator runs smoothly. The only thing is that the consumption is high, but you have to pay for comfort.” (Alexey, Moscow)

“I bought it with a mileage of 120 thousand km - after six months the variator began to leak. The repair cost 180 thousand rubles. Now I change the oil every 50 thousand km and there are no problems.” (Igor, St. Petersburg)

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

In 2011 Nissan Murano there were several direct competitors, among which stood out Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot And Hyundai Santa Fe. Let's compare them based on key parameters:

Parameter	Nissan Murano 2011	Toyota Highlander 2011	Honda Pilot 2011	Hyundai Santa Fe 2011
Engine	V6 3.5 l, 265 hp	V6 3.5 l, 270 hp	V6 3.5 l, 250 hp	V6 3.5 l, 276 hp
Transmission	CVT	5-speed automatic	5-speed automatic	6-speed automatic
Fuel consumption (combined)	12 l/100 km	11 l/100 km	12.5 l/100 km	11.5 l/100 km
Secondary market price (2023)	800-1,200 thousand rubles.	900-1,300 thousand rubles.	850-1,200 thousand rubles.	700-1,000 thousand rubles.
Main problems	CVT, oil leaks	Corrosion, suspension	Transmission, fuel consumption	Electronics, interior

If we compare in terms of reliability, then Toyota Highlander traditionally considered the most “indestructible”, but also more expensive. Honda Pilot more spacious, but less economical. Hyundai Santa Fe cheaper to maintain, but inferior in comfort and dynamics. Nissan Murano occupies an intermediate position - it is stylish, dynamic, but requires careful attention to the variator.

Recommendations for operation and maintenance

To Nissan Murano 2011 served a long time and did not cause problems, follow a few key recommendations:

1. Change the CVT oil regularly - every 60 thousand km (or once every 2 years). Use only original fluid NS-2 or its analogues (Idemitsu CVTF, Mobil CVT Fluid).
2. Monitor the cooling system - change antifreeze every 90 thousand km and check the condition of the radiator. Overheating of the variator is one of the main reasons for its failure.
3. Check the engine oil level — VQ35DE prone to "oil-guzzling" after 150 thousand km. Add oil every 1-2 thousand km, if waste is noticeable.
4. Check the suspension - stabilizer struts and silent blocks wear out 80-100 thousand km. Replacing them will cost 20-30 thousand rubles.

Also note all-wheel drive system. B Murano coupling is used All-Mode 4x4-i, which requires periodic checking. If the car has been operated for a long time only in 2WD, the clutch may become sour. The solution is to turn on the four-wheel drive for a few minutes once a month.

⚠️ Attention: Never tow Murano on a flexible hitch with the engine running - this can lead to overheating of the variator. Use only a rigid hitch or tow truck.

What to do if the variator starts to twitch?

If you notice jerking or slipping of the variator, first check the oil level. If it is normal, go for diagnostics. Often the problem is solved by changing the oil and filters, but in advanced cases the variator may need to be repaired or replaced. The average cost of a major overhaul is from 150 to 250 thousand rubles.

Prices on the secondary market and what affects them

Cost Nissan Murano 2011 on the secondary market in 2023 ranges from 700 thousand rubles to 1.3 million rubles. Main factors influencing the price:

• 📊 Mileage: to 100 thousand km — premium category, above 200 thousand km - budget option.
• 🔧 Variator condition: if there are records of regular oil changes, the price is higher.
• 🎨 Equipment: cars with leather interior, sunroof and premium audio system Bose more expensive.
• 🛡️ Service history: the presence of receipts and maintenance records increases the cost.
• 🚗 Body condition: the absence of corrosion and traces of an accident is a big plus.

Average prices by region (as of August 2023):

• Moscow and region: 900-1,300 thousand rubles
• St. Petersburg: 850-1,200 thousand rubles
• Regions: 700-1,000 thousand rubles

When purchasing, pay attention to real mileage - it is often twisted. Check the condition of the steering wheel, pedals and seats: if they are very worn during mileage 100 thousand km, most likely, the numbers were screwed up. Also request a VIN report (for example, through Autocode or CarVertical) - this will help identify hidden problems.

Tuning and modernization of Nissan Murano 2011

Nissan Murano - not the most popular car for tuning, but some owners still upgrade it. Here are some areas for upgrade:

• 🎵 Audio system: replacing the standard radio with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, installation of a subwoofer.
• 💡 Optics: LED headlights, tinted rear lights.
• 🛡️ Protection: installation of crankcase protection, mudguards, anti-gravel film.
• 🚙 Appearance: vinyl wrap, dark tinting, chrome elements.
• ⚙️ Chassis: replacing racks with sports ones (for example, KYB), installation of spacers to increase ground clearance.

If you want to increase the power, you can consider chip tuning. After flashing the engine VQ35DE can issue up to 280-290 hp, but this requires the installation of more powerful brakes and an enhanced cooling system. Average cost of chip tuning - 30-50 thousand rubles.

⚠️ Attention: Installing too stiff springs or lowering the suspension can lead to problems with the variator due to changed operating angles of the drives. Before tuning, consult with specialists.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2011 Nissan Murano

What is the service life of the VQ35DE engine?

With proper maintenance, the engine VQ35DE passes easily 300-400 thousand km. The main thing is to change the oil regularly (every 10 thousand km) and monitor the cooling system. The main problems begin after 200 thousand km: oil leaks, timing chain wear, oil leaks.

Can you tow a trailer with the 2011 Murano?

Yes, Nissan Murano 2011 can tow a trailer weighing up to 1.5 tons (with brakes) or 750 kg (no brakes). However, remember that towing increases the load on the CVT. If you plan to frequently transport a trailer, install an additional variator cooling radiator.

What kind of oil should I pour into the variator?

For CVT JF011E original oil recommended Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (art. KLE52-00004). Alternatives: Idemitsu CVTF, Mobil CVT Fluid. Volume for a complete replacement - 10-12 liters (depending on the replacement method).

How much does it cost to repair a CVT?

CVT repair cost JF011E depends on the problem:

• Changing oil and filters: 15-25 thousand rubles
• Valve block repair: 50-80 thousand rubles
• Major repairs (replacement of belt, cones): 150-250 thousand rubles
• Complete replacement of the variator: 300-400 thousand rubles

What is the ground clearance of the 2011 Murano?

Ground clearance (ground clearance) Nissan Murano 2011 is 180 mm. This is enough for urban conditions and light off-road conditions, but the car is not intended for serious off-road use.