IllustrationTHE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT WITHOUT A WARNING LIGHT OR SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT. I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC AND IF STOPPED. I WAS DRIVING 25 MPH IN A SUBURB GOING STRAIGHT. WHEN I HEARD A LOUD BUZZING SOUND AND BOOM NO MORE ACCELERATION. THIS IS DANGEROUS.
2009 Nissan Murano
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Murano years
Owner complaints for the 2009 Nissan Murano are substantially higher than the model-year median of 110.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Murano years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
380–25K
5025–50K
13750–75K
12275–100K
127100–150K
52150K+
526 reports with mileage · 109 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Service Brakes. Review the 253 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Air Bags. Review the 91 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Electrical System. Review the 83 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
24 crash reports4 fire reports13 injury reports
What owners actually said
635 reportsTHE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG CONTROL QUIT WORKING. THE RED LIGHT IS ON IN THE DASH. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THIS VIN NUMBER IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. NISSAN HAS A RECALL NVTSA # 08V-521 AND THE CAMPAIGN ID FOR THE 2009 MURANO NUMBER IS Z51. THE PROBLEM WITH MY CAR IS THE SAME AS THE RECALL. I ONLY GET THE RUNAROUND FROM NISS…
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THE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG CONTROL QUIT WORKING. THE RED LIGHT IS ON IN THE DASH. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THIS VIN NUMBER IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. NISSAN HAS A RECALL NVTSA # 08V-521 AND THE CAMPAIGN ID FOR THE 2009 MURANO NUMBER IS Z51. THE PROBLEM WITH MY CAR IS THE SAME AS THE RECALL. I ONLY GET THE RUNAROUND FROM NISSAN ABOUT MY PROBLEM. I CAN NOT USE THE CAR IF I HAVE A PASSENGER. I NEED HELP FOR THIS PROBLEM.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS OVER BUMPS IN THE ROAD, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD, WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED, AND DID NOT IMMEDIATELY STOP THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE ABS INDICATOR WOULD ILLUMINATE OCCASIONALLY. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MEC…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS OVER BUMPS IN THE ROAD, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD, WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED, AND DID NOT IMMEDIATELY STOP THE VEHICLE. ALSO, THE ABS INDICATOR WOULD ILLUMINATE OCCASIONALLY. THE DEALER WAS NOT CALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 74,000. *TT CONSUMER STATED THE ABS INDICATOR WAS ON FOR COUPLE OF DAYS.*JB
MY HEADLIGHTS DOES NOT SHINE STRAIGHT AHEAD. THEY SHINE MORE TO THE SIDES AND DOWNWARD, MAKING IT HARD TO SEE ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN IT THERE ARE NO LIGHTING. WHEN I TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE THE TECHNICIAN SAID IT WAS THE LENSES. I HAD THEM CLEANED AND THEY STILL DO NOT SHINE STRAIGHT. I BELIEVE THERE IS A MALFUNCTION THE HEADLIGHTS.…
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MY HEADLIGHTS DOES NOT SHINE STRAIGHT AHEAD. THEY SHINE MORE TO THE SIDES AND DOWNWARD, MAKING IT HARD TO SEE ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN IT THERE ARE NO LIGHTING. WHEN I TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE THE TECHNICIAN SAID IT WAS THE LENSES. I HAD THEM CLEANED AND THEY STILL DO NOT SHINE STRAIGHT. I BELIEVE THERE IS A MALFUNCTION THE HEADLIGHTS. THEREFORE, IT MAKES IT HARD TO DRIVE AT NIGHT WITHOUT THE PROPER LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V066000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. CARR NISSAN (3855 SW CEDAR HILLS BLVD, BEAVERTON, OR 97005…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V066000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. CARR NISSAN (3855 SW CEDAR HILLS BLVD, BEAVERTON, OR 97005, (503) 643-8676) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
MY COLLEGE AGE DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING HOME FROM COLLEGE AND HEARD A NOISE UNDER THE CAR. IT IS A MIRACLE SHE MADE THE 4 HOUR DRIVE WITHOUT A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. WE IMMEDIATELY HAD THE CAR INSPECTED BY A LOCAL GARAGE WITH AN EXCELLENT REPUTATION. THEY CALLED ME BACK TO THE REPAIR BAY AND TOLD ME THE MAIN REAR SUBFRAME OR 'REAR CRADLE…
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MY COLLEGE AGE DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING HOME FROM COLLEGE AND HEARD A NOISE UNDER THE CAR. IT IS A MIRACLE SHE MADE THE 4 HOUR DRIVE WITHOUT A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. WE IMMEDIATELY HAD THE CAR INSPECTED BY A LOCAL GARAGE WITH AN EXCELLENT REPUTATION. THEY CALLED ME BACK TO THE REPAIR BAY AND TOLD ME THE MAIN REAR SUBFRAME OR 'REAR CRADLE' HAD RUSTED COMPLETELY IN HALF. THE CAR HAS 111,000 MILES IN IT AND HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED. THE ENGINE AND INTERIOR ARE IN PERFECT CONDITION AND SHOULD PROVIDE MANY MORE YEARS OF SERVICE. THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND THE LOCAL REPAIR SHOPS ARE UNWILLING TO MAKE REPAIRS BECAUSE OF THE RISK OF BOLTS BREAKING OFF IN THE UNIBODY FRAME. THERE ARE MANY MANY REPORTS OF THIS ONLINE AND NISSAN REFUSES TO FIX THE SITUATION AFTER CALLING AND WORKING THROUGH THEIR PHONE PROCESS. THIS IS A CONSUMER LIFE SAFETY PROBLEM ON PAR WITH STUCK ACCELERATORS. THE GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO STEP IN AND PROTECT THE CITIZENS. APPARENTLY THERE IS EITHER A DESIGN OR STEEL QUALITY ISSUE AS OTHERS DESCRIBE ON THE INTERNET. NISSAN WOULDN'T EVEN OFFER TO FIX THE CAR. SELLING THESE TO OTHERS JUST PASSES RISK TO OTHER UNSUSPECTING PEOPLE. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE. AS IT STANDS THE VEHICLE IT A TOTAL LOSS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS WITH NISSAN TURNING A BLIND EYE DUE TO COSTS. *DT*JB
MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO WHICH I BOUGHT IN FEBRUARY 2014 FROM AN AUTHORIZED NISSAN DEALER (MORRIE'S MINNETONKA) HAD A FAULTY CVT TRANSMISSION. AFTER DEALING WITH THE PROBLEM FOR ALMOST A YEAR, WHICH INCLUDES BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: LOSS OF POWER, TRANSMISSION JERKING, TRANSMISSION SLIPPING, CVT COOLANT HOSE LEAKS AND FAI…
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MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO WHICH I BOUGHT IN FEBRUARY 2014 FROM AN AUTHORIZED NISSAN DEALER (MORRIE'S MINNETONKA) HAD A FAULTY CVT TRANSMISSION. AFTER DEALING WITH THE PROBLEM FOR ALMOST A YEAR, WHICH INCLUDES BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: LOSS OF POWER, TRANSMISSION JERKING, TRANSMISSION SLIPPING, CVT COOLANT HOSE LEAKS AND FAILURES WHICH PUT MY LIFE, MY KIDS LIFE IN DANGER MULTIPLE TIMES. I REACHED OUT TO NISSAN USA WARRANTY OFFICE NUMEROUS TIMES FOR NO AVAIL AND ULTIMATELY REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION AT A COST OF $4,299. NISSAN REFUSED TO COVER THE COST AND COMPLETELY IGNORED MY REPEATED PLEA FOR A RESPONSE. I WOULD LIKE TO BRING THE ISSUE TO THE NHTSA HOPING YOU WILL 1) CONDUCT THE FAULTY CVT TRANSMISSIONS OF NISSAN. I LEARNT THAT THERE ARE PENDING LEGAL ISSUES THAT THE COMPANY IS DEALING WITH AS OF TODAY AND I AM HAPPY TO HAND OVER ALL MY VEHICLE INSPECTION DOCUMENTS IN ORDER TO HELP THE INVESTIGATION. 2) AS I MENTIONED EARLIER THE CVT TRANSMISSION ISSUE AND SUDDEN STOPS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY REPEATEDLY PUT MY LIFE, MY KIDS LIFE AND OTHER DRIVERS AT RISK. I AM SURE OTHER NISSAN MURANO OWNERS ARE DEALING WITH THE SAME PROBLEM AND PURSUING THIS INVESTIGATION AND RESOLVING IN A TIMELY MANNER WILL PROTECT THE PUBLIC FROM UNNECESSARY DANGER CAUSED BY THE MANUFACTURER. 3) NISSAN SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND COVER OWNERS LIKE MYSELF FOR A MISTAKE THAT IN MY OPINION BIG ENOUGH TO DEMAND A RECALL.
BRAKES FAILED DUE TO ABS ACTUATOR FAILURE WHILE IN MOTION ON A HIGHWAY. VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR BRAKE FLUID CHANGE AND ABS ACTUATOR TEST. ABS ACTUATOR FAILED 4 MONTHS AFTER FLUID CHANGE. NISSAN REFUSED TO MAKE REPAIRS. TOTAL COST OF REPAIR WAS $2400. THIS CREATED AN UNSAFE CONDITION WHICH NISSAN REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE.
TAKATA RECALL. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT MY CAR IS NOT UNDER RECALL BUT MY AIR BAG SENSOR LIGHT KEEPS FLASHING AND MY PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG SENSOR SAYS THAT THIS IF OFF. I HAVE TRIED TURNING THE CAR ON AND OFF, BUCKLING THE SEATBELT AS PER INSTRUCTIONS. LIGHT FOR SENSOR WILL NOT GO OFF WHEN DRIVING, STATIONARY, OR IDLING.
MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO LOST POWER ALL OF THE SUDDEN WHILE DEIVING, TOOK IT TO THE LOCSL SHOP AND I WAS TOLD IT WAS THE ALTERNATOR, PROCEED TO REPLACE IT FOR A NEW ONE AND YET IT HAPPENED AGAIN, I HAVE BEEN LOOKING IN SEVERAL FORUMS AND STILL HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT WHAT IT COULD BE, CHECKED NEW ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY AND THEY ARE WORK…
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MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO LOST POWER ALL OF THE SUDDEN WHILE DEIVING, TOOK IT TO THE LOCSL SHOP AND I WAS TOLD IT WAS THE ALTERNATOR, PROCEED TO REPLACE IT FOR A NEW ONE AND YET IT HAPPENED AGAIN, I HAVE BEEN LOOKING IN SEVERAL FORUMS AND STILL HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT WHAT IT COULD BE, CHECKED NEW ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY AND THEY ARE WORKING 'PROPERLY' PLEASE HELP
Official recalls
418V916000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Dec 19, 2018
Nissan of North America, Inc (Nissan) is recalling certain 2009 Murano vehicles. The valves within the ABS Hydraulic Control Units (HCU) may react with brake fluids containing specific corrosion preventative additives. This reaction may cause the valves to not close properly.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the valves do not properly close, additional brake pedal travel may be required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Nissan has notified owners, and dealers will flush the brake system with DOT 4 fluid. The HCU will then be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition. If necessary, the HCU will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
09V393000 · Tires:pressure Monitoring And Regulating Systems
Oct 5, 2009
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. THE MATERIAL IN THE NUT USED TO SECURE THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER OF THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) MAY CORRODE AND POTENTIALLY CRACK IN AREAS WITH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE NUT MAY COME OUT OF THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER AND THE TPMS LAMP WILL ILLUMINATE.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IF THE TPMS LAMP IS DISREGARDED AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO BE DRIVEN IN THIS CONDITION, THE TIRE WILL QUICKLY LOSE AIR PRESSURE AT A CONSISTENT RATE RESULTING IN A FLAT TIRE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TPMS NUT WITH A NEW, MORE ROBUST NUT. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 9, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 AND INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
08V521000 · Air Bags; Electrical System:software
Oct 7, 2008
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:software
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Air Bags
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
08V066000 · Air Bags
Feb 12, 2008
NISSAN IS RECALLING 16,365 MY 2008 INFINITI EX35 AND MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING, THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU) MAY CAUSE THE PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT TO OPERATE AS DESIGNED IF THE VEHICLE BATTERY BECOMES SIGNIFICANTLY DISCHARGED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT INFLATING IN A CRASH IN WHICH IT WAS DESIGNED TO DO SO, AND INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ACU IN AFFECTED VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 19, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200 OR NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
2EA18001 · Extended Braking Distances
Opened Apr 18, 2018 · Closed Jan 17, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
On April 18, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001 to investigate reports of braking concerns in model year (MY) 2009 Nissan Murano vehicles. A failure of the hydraulic control unit (HCU) portion of the antilock brake system (ABS), which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve(s), can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness. Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.The corrosion-preventive, zinc coating used on the armatures of the normally closed (NC) valves within ABS HCU may react with brake fluids lacking sufficient corrosion-preventative additives. This reaction can cause the formation of a gelatinous material, which may cause the NC valves to close slowly. Over time, the gel can solidify to an extent such that the spring used to return the valve to the closed position may not be able to overcome the gel buildup, allowing the NC valve to remain open. If any of the four NC valves remains open, fluid will be diverted to one or two accumulator(s). This misdirected fluid has the net effect of causing brake pedal travel to increase, however enough stroke remains in the pedal to generate braking force. Although the hydraulic braking system remains intact and full braking force is maintained once the pedal travels the additional distance, when this condition occurs, the initial increase in brake pedal travel could result in increased stopping distance. An existing Nissan Service Campaign was launched for MY 2009 vehicles built prior to 11/1/2007. After consultation with ODI as part of EA18-001, Nissan decided to expand this population to the full range of MY2009 Murano vehicles. Later Murano vehicles exhibit significantly lower rates of malfunction.During this investigation 156 complaints were identified that related to the braking concern. Within the complainants 2 allege crashes with 4 injuries. The Nissan reports from investigation Information Request letter responses, were similar in content and identified 870 reports with 16 crashes and no injuries.On December 19, 2018, Nissan notified ODI it would conduct a safety recall (18V916) to remedy the ABS modules on certain MY 2009 Nissan Murano vehicles. The remedy procedure involves dealers flushing the brake system with DOT 4 fluid. The HCU will then be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition. If necessary, the HCU will be replaced. The 2010-14 Murano SUVs outside the recall population and equipped with zinc-coated armatures will be inspected under a service campaign P0A08 using the same procedure as recall 18V916.Continental HCUs with a redesigned armature coating were phased into new vehicle production after December 2014 and do not appear to be experiencing corrosion. The recall action initiated by the manufacturer appears to address the safety risks of concern to ODI. Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exists on other model or MY vehicles outside of the recall scope. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For a complete summary of this investigation and related consumer complaints, please see attached closing resume document.
PE17002 · Extended Braking Distances
Opened May 3, 2017 · Closed May 4, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes; Service Brakes, Air:antilock; Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Service Brakes, Air:antilock
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Service Brakes
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.