Purchasing a used car is a great way to drive a reliable car unless you purchase a 2009 Nissan Murano. This car has many problems affecting its brakes, transmission, airbag system, and electrical system. This car is not reliable and should be sent to the junkyard if you can’t afford the costly repairs.
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The 2009 Nissan Murano was a comfortable SUV with a comfortable ride when it first hit the market. Unfortunately, people are still purchasing this vehicle without knowing its common problems and recalls. It looked cool, and still looks pretty cool, but as they say, looks can be deceiving.
The Nissan Murano has been in production since 2002 and like any vehicle, it is not without its problems. Several models have had numerous issues with varying components.
The 2009 Nissan Murano has received the second-largest number of complaints according to CarComplaints.com. That’s not exactly a hallmark achievement.
When the 2009 model was released, most people were really excited about it, as the models from 2005 to 2008 were fairly reliable and relatively problem-free. However, there were a couple of very big issues with the 2009 model, including the transmission.
Transmission problems are a major red flag. Not only is that part quite finicky, it is expensive to repair. In smaller cities, even finding reliable transmission mechanics can pose a major challenge. If there aren’t many, be prepared to pay a pretty penny for the job.
This blog outlines the common problems with the 2009 Nissan Murano and where applicable, the 2021 repair cost estimates are given. Remember that every mechanic and garage is different so prices will vary depending on severity, location, parts, and market value.
2009 Nissan Murano Brake Problems
There most common problem with the 2009 Nissan Murano lies within the braking system. This includes the soft brake pedal, ABS controller, master cylinder, and traction control system.
Brake system problems are scary enough on their own. Without a properly functioning system to stop the car, it’s dangerous out on the road. When you start to consider the car’s age, paired with a history of brake problems, it might make you reconsider picking up this vehicle if it’s on your maybe list.
Drivers reported symptoms such as stabilizers not connected, the brake pedal going all the way to the floor without stopping, losing all braking power, and the ABS unit failing. These are the types of problems nightmares are made of, and the 2009 Nissan Murano has made them a reality for some.
The soft brake pedal begins affecting cars at about 90,000 miles. The repair means replacing almost the entire system: replacing the ABS actuator, brake pads, master cylinder and booster, and ABS hydraulic unit. This is a fairly expensive repair, costing $2,400 on average.
The ABS (antilock braking system) controller issue normally affected cars at around 104,000 miles.
When the ABS controller malfunctioned, drivers reported the brakes becoming “soft”, lacking any brake pressure and the ability to pump. This repair includes replacing the master cylinder for around $1,700.
2009 Nissan Murano Transmission Problems
The 2009 Nissan Murano presented serious transmission issues. The most common reports included hard jerks while driving, not gaining speed from a complete stop, complete transmission failure, rolling back on an incline, and the car not being able to reverse.
These problems are serious and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Old cars may be more prone to transmission problems, but it doesn’t excuse them. If your 2009 Nissan Murano has transmission problems, you need to avoid a dangerous situation by making a choice: get it repaired or send it to a junkyard.
The hard jerks, while driving, were reported at around 130,000 miles. When drivers were stopped at a light or a stop sign and ready to go again, they put their foot on the gas and the car didn’t move; the transmission was not going into the correct gear to accelerate.
Not only do these issues create hazardous driving conditions, but they are also incredibly expensive to repair. This repair meant complete transmission replacement. Depending on the type of transmission purchased and your location, this could cost upwards of $4,000.
2009 Nissan Murano Airbag Problems
As if transmission issues weren’t enough to deal with, the 2009 Nissan Murano also has airbag problems. Combined with the other issues mentioned, this car is a recipe for disaster, if not lethal.
There were several complaints related to the airbags. Sometimes it would be a simple repair, such as a faulty airbag warning sensor, which costs around $300 to repair. As a matter of fact, it should be pointed out here that this warning is for the lucky people.
Not everybody finds out about airbag problems before an accident.
Other times, the front airbags would turn off while driving, or even worse, they would not deploy during an accident. If these issues are related to a sensor, it is a relatively easy fix, but if not, it requires a mechanic’s diagnosis meaning more time and money.
Of course, the safety hazard of driving around a car that doesn’t have working airbags is alarm for change.
2009 Nissan Murano Electrical Issues
But wait, there’s more: the 2009 Nissan Murano also has electrical issues. Drivers reported all of the vehicle lights turning on and flashing, the battery suddenly losing power, the engine shutting off without warning, and the car excessively shaking while driving.
The most common reason the vehicle lights turned on and flashed was because of a worn-out alternator. A bad alternator can also explain why the engine shuts off without warning. An alternator costs about $700 to replace.
The problem isn’t that serious or expensive, but it could occur at the worst possible time, making it a nuisance.
An issue with the alternator could also explain why the battery suddenly loses power; however, it could also be due to corrosion, charging problems, or even extreme weather. If the car battery needs to be replaced it is a fairly inexpensive (between $50 and $250) and relatively easy to fix.
The car shaking could be due to a defective tire, bent wheel, or worn U-joint. Replacing a defective tire is fairly simple and costs on average $160. Bent wheels often can’t be repaired safely, so they need to be replaced costing between $200 and $500. Meanwhile, a u-joint costs around $270.
2009 Nissan Murano Recalls
Knowing all of the issues with the 2009 Nissan Murano, it isn’t surprising that it has had four well-known recalls.
- The first recall related to the passenger airbag failing to deploy due to incorrect programming.
- The occupant classification system control unit reads whether or not there is a passenger in the front seat. If this is not working properly, it could mean that because it does not recognize a passenger, the airbag will not be deployed during an accident.
- The tire pressure monitoring system was also recalled. If this system is not functioning properly, the tires quickly lose air pressure, increasing the risk of a flat tire.
- The final recall was for the anti-lock brake system. The ABS valve did not close properly, meaning the driver had to press harder on the brake pad. The problem has often resulted in a crash.
If you are the owner of a 2009 Nissan Murano or interested in purchasing one, you can check on the status of recalls by contacting a Nissan dealership. The dealership will run the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against the database to review the current status of the vehicle.
Is the 2009 Nissan Murano Reliable?
The Nissan Murano is a popular SUV but not all of its models were reliable, including the 2009 Nissan Murano.
The newer models of the Nissan Murano have not received as many complaints nor had as many recalls (if any), but if you’re in the market for a used vehicle, you need to be cautious. Many mechanics grin when somebody says they’re having problems with 2009 Nissan Murano; they already know.
In addition to all of the issues and recalls, drivers must think about mileage and severity. Because most of the issues occur at an average mileage of 90,000 and cost more than $2,000 to fix, the car is not reliable.
How Much Should I Pay for a 2009 Nissan Murano?
If you are set on purchasing a 2009 Nissan Murano, you need to investigate various factors. For example, the market value depends on where you’re buying, the condition of the car, taxes, fees, and other aspects.
If you find a 2009 Nissan Murano that has been kept in great condition, necessary recalls fixed, repairs completed, and low mileage, you could spend as much as $8,000. That’s a high price for a used car this old, but if everything’s fair in square, then it might be worth it for the right deal.
However, if you are interested in purchasing a 2009 Nissan Murano for its parts or even perhaps because you are a car hobbyist who enjoys making repairs, you could spend around $2,300.
The car is not reliable but due to factors like condition and mileage, the price varies drastically. If an advertisement tells you that it got them front point A to point B over the past decade, don’t assume it will do the same for you.
2009 Nissan Murano Buying and Selling Advice
If you’re thinking of buying this car, and you don’t have the means or knowhow to keep up with the constant repairs that might be down the line, think again. Your time and money are investments you can’t take for granted in buying the first SUV that pops up on your feed.
Instead, take the time to research a car that has fewer problems. You will save time and money. You might even save yourself from an accident.
If you have this car in your possession right now, and you know the car has had symptoms of these issues, don’t try to hide the problems. That’s unethical, and in many jurisdictions, illegal. Instead, send the car to a junkyard. The junkyard will pay you cash money for a 2009 Nissan Murano.
2009 Nissan Murano Problems: Avoid This Year at All Costs
If you are currently driving a 2009 Nissan Murano and have made it this far into the article, you are probably terrified. This vehicle model has several issues and recalls to overcome. Yes, this is a pain for you to deal with; however, you have options.
The depreciation of a car begins the second you leave the dealership lot.
This seems to happen at an even greater rate with used cars, meaning most drivers expect frequent, if not more costly, repairs are just around the corner.
Luckily, you could end the relationship with the car before it gets to that point.
Due to its low reliability, ask for a tow truck to come to pick it up and deliver it to a junkyard. Once received, you will receive cash payment for your vehicle that you can put towards a more reliable vehicle.
If you just can’t part ways with the vehicle just yet, at least have it taken to your mechanic.
Ask for a full vehicle inspection including any outstanding recalls that need to be taken care of. Proper maintenance will help add to the car’s life and allow you more time to come to terms with saying goodbye.
Unfortunately, if you don’t choose between the junkyard or mechanic, you may end up stranded on the road with a vehicle requiring costly repairs.