Driving a 2010 Nissan Murano offers a sense of elevated confidence, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and comfortable, spacious cabin that caters to families or road-trip enthusiasts. This specific model year sits at a sweet spot where the design remains modern and the technology feels dated, yet it is not so old to be prohibitively expensive to maintain. However, like any vehicle traversing the decade-plus milestone, the 2010 Murano comes with its own specific set of mechanical vulnerabilities and electronic quirks that prospective buyers need to understand before committing to the purchase.
Common Mechanical Wear and Tear
Under the hood, the 2010 Murano relies on the 3.5-liter VQ35DE V6 engine, a unit known for its smoothness but not necessarily its longevity if maintenance is neglected. Owners frequently report issues related to the automatic transmission, specifically harsh shifting into reverse and premature wear on the torque converter. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive system, while a major selling point, places additional stress on the front differential and the constant velocity (CV) joints, which can lead to clicking noises during turns if the boots are compromised.
Suspension and Brake Concerns
The suspension on the Murano tends to soften over the years, but specific components are prone to failure. Control arm bushings and ball joints wear out faster than one might expect for a vehicle of this weight, leading to clunking sounds over uneven pavement. Brake system issues are also prevalent; the rear drum brakes often seize up, causing a burning smell and reduced braking efficiency, while the rotors on the front discs are susceptible to warping due to the unit's relatively light construction.
Electrical and Infotainment Challenges
One of the most frustrating aspects of the 2010 model year is the integration of electronics with aging hardware. The DVD-based navigation system, while advanced for its time, is notoriously unreliable. The screen is prone to fading, the motor that pops the screen down often fails, and the head unit itself is susceptible to failure, leaving the radio and GPS capabilities dead in the water. Resetting the system usually requires a specific procedure that many drivers are unaware of, leading to unnecessary dealer visits.
Warning Lights and Sensor Failures
It is not uncommon for a 2010 Murano to illuminate the Check Engine Light due to issues with the rear oxygen sensor or the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system. The push-button start system, while convenient, has been known to experience malfunctions where the vehicle fails to recognize the key fob or, in rare cases, refuses to start. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor often fails, resulting in constant warnings on the dashboard that do not correspond to actual tire pressure issues.
Interior and Material Durability
Inside, the Murano wraps the driver in faux leather and soft-touch plastics, but the quality of those materials degrades quickly with exposure to sunlight. The dashboard is particularly susceptible to cracking and fading, and the stitching on the seats can unravel over time due to the constant flexing of the foam padding. The power liftgate, a signature feature, often struggles to stay open and may require manual support to prevent it from slamming down, which poses a safety risk to anyone walking behind the vehicle.
Proactive Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Owning a 2010 Murano successfully hinges on adopting a proactive maintenance schedule rather than a reactive one. Replacing the rear drum brake hardware kit before the shoes wear down completely can prevent the rotor damage that leads to expensive repairs. Flushing the transmission fluid and filter at the recommended intervals, or even slightly earlier, can significantly extend the life of the transmission and mitigate harsh shifting. Regular inspection of the CV boots for cracks is essential to prevent grease loss and subsequent joint failure.
