CVT Transmission Failure or Shudder
high- Typically appears
- 100–160k mi
- Estimated repair
- $2,800 – $5,500
2007 Nissan
MuranoSUV
SUV
The 2007 Nissan Murano is a first-generation (Z50) crossover SUV that debuted Nissan's then-bold, curved styling language in a mid-size package. It slots between compact and full-size crossovers, pairing a 3.5L V6 with a CVT for a car-like driving feel. At this age, the Murano is a value buy for buyers who want a spacious, comfortable crossover on a budget — but it comes with first-gen CVT baggage that demands respect. The 2007 model was in the last full year of the first-generation run (the second generation arrived for 2009), so parts are widely available and the powertrain is well-understood by independent shops. AWD was the volume seller, but FWD versions exist and are simpler to maintain. At 15–18 years old, any surviving Murano needs a thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on CVT health, timing chain stretch, and rust — especially relevant in the Wisconsin salt belt. Budget accordingly for deferred maintenance.
Reliability
3/5
Verified data
Specs shown for Murano FWD — the most common configuration.
Other trims may vary in engine, drivetrain, or fuel economy. Sign in to see your vehicle's exact specs.
Engine
[object Object]
Drivetrain
FWD
Fuel
Premium gasoline
MPG
18 city / 23 hwy / 20 combined
Seats
—
Doors
—
Body
Sport Utility Vehicle - 2WD
Overview
AI-curatedThe 2007 Nissan Murano is a first-generation (Z50) crossover SUV that debuted Nissan's then-bold, curved styling language in a mid-size package. It slots between compact and full-size crossovers, pairing a 3.5L V6 with a CVT for a car-like driving feel. At this age, the Murano is a value buy for buyers who want a spacious, comfortable crossover on a budget — but it comes with first-gen CVT baggage that demands respect. The 2007 model was in the last full year of the first-generation run (the second generation arrived for 2009), so parts are widely available and the powertrain is well-understood by independent shops. AWD was the volume seller, but FWD versions exist and are simpler to maintain. At 15–18 years old, any surviving Murano needs a thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on CVT health, timing chain stretch, and rust — especially relevant in the Wisconsin salt belt. Budget accordingly for deferred maintenance.
Known for
- Distinctive, sweeping styling that still turns heads
- Smooth, quiet highway ride for its class
- Spacious, upscale cabin with panoramic roof option
- 3.5L VQ35DE V6 — one of Nissan's most proven engines
- CVT transmission that can be costly if neglected
Best for
- Commuters wanting a roomy, comfortable daily driver
- Buyers who prioritize highway comfort over off-road ability
- Those seeking a stylish SUV at a low entry price
- Families needing a spacious cabin without minivan stigma
Watch for
- CVT failures, especially on high-mileage or poorly maintained examples
- Timing chain rattle on cold starts — early sign of stretch
- Rust on frame rails, rocker panels, and brake lines in salt-belt states
- EVAP and fuel system codes on aging examples
- Power steering hose leaks (hydraulic system on this generation)
Common issues by mileage
6 knownTiming Chain Stretch / Tensioner Wear
medium- Typically appears
- 80–130k mi
- Estimated repair
- $900 – $1,800
VTC (Variable Valve Timing) Solenoid Failure
medium- Typically appears
- 70–120k mi
- Estimated repair
- $200 – $550
Oxygen / A/F Sensor Heater Circuit Failure
medium- Typically appears
- 90–150k mi
- Estimated repair
- $150 – $400
Power Steering Hose / Rack Leak
medium- Typically appears
- 80–150k mi
- Estimated repair
- $250 – $700
Rust on Rocker Panels, Brake Lines, and Frame (Salt Belt)
high- Typically appears
- Any mileage on Wisconsin/Midwest vehicles
- Estimated repair
- $300 – $2,500
Maintenance schedule
- 1 Every 60k mi — do NOT skip or extend CVT Fluid Change
Nissan's first-gen CVT is extremely sensitive to fluid condition. Many failures trace directly to degraded fluid. Use only Nissan NS-2 or NS-3 CVT fluid. If the fluid has never been changed and you're past 100k mi, change it immediately — dirty fluid shortens belt and pulley life fast.
- 2 Every 5,000 mi or 6 months, whichever comes first Engine Oil Change
The VQ35DE is oil-sensitive. Timing chain tensioners and VTC solenoids depend on clean oil pressure. In Wisconsin winters, cold-start oil delivery is critical — don't stretch intervals.
- 3 Inspect at 80k mi; address any cold-start rattle immediately Timing Chain Inspection
Timing chain stretch shows up first as a brief rattle on cold start. Catching it early avoids engine damage. If P0012, P0015, P0022, or P0025 codes appear, diagnose the chain and tensioners before driving further.
- 4 Every fall before winter; every spring after snow season Brake Line Inspection for Rust
Wisconsin road salt accelerates brake line corrosion on 15+ year old vehicles. A rotted brake line can fail suddenly. Inspect the entire run from master cylinder to rear wheels each season.
- 5 Every 5 years or 60k mi Coolant Flush
Older coolant loses its corrosion inhibitors and can attack the aluminum components in the VQ35's cooling system. A flush is cheap insurance against a cracked head gasket.
- 6 Every 105k mi per factory spec; consider 80k mi on used examples with unknown history Spark Plugs (Iridium)
Worn plugs cause rough idle and increased load on ignition coils. On a 2007 with unknown service history, replacing plugs at purchase is low-cost peace of mind.
- 7 Every 15–20k mi or annually Cabin and Engine Air Filters
Wisconsin road grime and pollen load these up quickly. A clogged engine filter can affect fuel economy and MAF sensor readings.
- 8 Every 30k mi on used vehicles with unknown history AWD Transfer Clutch Fluid (if AWD-equipped)
The Murano's AWD system uses a wet clutch coupling that needs clean fluid. Neglect causes shudder and premature failure of an expensive unit.
Always defer to the manufacturer's service manual for warranty-mandated intervals.
Cost of ownership
Annual maintenance
$700 – $1,600
Fuel
At ~20 MPG combined and Wisconsin average gas prices, expect $1,800–$2,400/year at 12,000 miles annually. The engine accepts regular unleaded despite some sources noting premium preference — regular is fine for normal driving.
Insurance
Typically $900–$1,300/year for a 2007 Murano in Wisconsin for a driver with a clean record; rates vary widely by ZIP and coverage level.
Day-to-day costs are reasonable for a V6 crossover this age — oil changes, filters, and brakes are the routine spend. The risk is a CVT replacement, which is a $3,000–$5,500 event that can easily exceed the vehicle's market value on a high-mileage example. Budget a CVT fluid change immediately at purchase if history is unknown, and set aside a repair reserve. Rust remediation is a realistic line item for any Wisconsin-operated vehicle.
Seasonal care
Lake Geneva, WI Winter
- Switch to a full synthetic 5W-30 if not already — cold Wisconsin starts below -10°F are hard on oil that hasn't fully circulated, and the CVT and timing chain tensioners need immediate pressure.
- Test the battery each fall; the 3.5L V6 is a strong cranker but a marginal battery fails fast in sub-zero temps. Replace anything testing below 500 CCA.
- Inspect and top off CVT fluid before winter — cold thickens fluid and a low or degraded level stresses the belt on cold-start engagement.
- Fill washer fluid with a -20°F or lower rated concentrate; Wisconsin winters will freeze standard fluid solid in the reservoir overnight.
- Check rubber brake lines and steel brake lines for salt corrosion each fall — a rusted-through line is a brake failure waiting to happen.
- Install dedicated winter tires if using AWD for real winter driving; all-seasons lose grip below 45°F and the Murano's weight makes stopping distances worse on worn rubber.
Summer
- Check tire pressure monthly — every 10°F rise in ambient temp adds roughly 1 PSI; hot pavement and summer heat can push pressures above door-placard spec and accelerate wear.
- Inspect the A/C system each spring — the 2007 Murano's condenser sits low and is vulnerable to stone damage and corrosion; check for refrigerant leaks and verify the cabin filter is clean for full airflow.
- Watch coolant temperature on hot days in stop-and-go traffic; a partially blocked radiator or aging thermostat will show itself in summer heat before it fails completely.
- Inspect the power steering hose connections and reservoir level — heat accelerates hose aging and a leak can leave you with heavy steering quickly.
Comparable vehicles
2007 Ford
Edge
Same model year, similar mid-size crossover footprint and price point. The Edge uses a conventional 6-speed automatic instead of a CVT, which some buyers find more reliable and cheaper to repair at this age.
2007 Toyota
Venza
Actually debuted in 2009, but the 2007 Highlander slots in as a Toyota alternative in the same segment — V6 power, AWD available, and Toyota's reputation for long-term reliability gives it an edge on high-mileage examples.
No catalog match
2007 Honda
Pilot
Slightly larger but similarly priced used. The Pilot's 5-speed automatic is simpler and less expensive to repair than the Murano's CVT, and Honda's drivetrain longevity record is strong.
2007 Mazda
CX-9
Three-row option at a similar used price. Shares the same mission — car-based crossover comfort — with a conventional automatic and Mazda's generally solid reliability record.
If you're shopping for one
Red flags
- No record of CVT fluid ever being changed
- Any transmission shudder, hesitation, or slipping during test drive
- Cold-start timing chain rattle
- Visible rust holes on rockers or undercarriage brake lines
- Check engine light on or recently cleared with no explanation
- Overheating history or signs of coolant leaks (white residue at hose connections, milky oil)
What to inspect
- Start the engine cold and listen for timing chain rattle in the first 10–15 seconds — any metallic chattering is a red flag.
- Drive in a tight circle at low speed to check for AWD coupling shudder (AWD models); vibration on turns suggests a worn transfer clutch.
- Check the CVT for smooth, seamless acceleration — any hesitation, shudder, or slipping under light throttle is a transmission warning sign.
- Inspect rocker panels, frame rails, and undercarriage for rust perforation; probe with a screwdriver — soft or flaking metal means structural rust.
- Pull the CVT dipstick (if accessible) or check the fluid condition: it should be pink/red and clean, not brown or smelling burnt.
- Scan for DTCs before purchase — codes P0012, P0015, P0022, P0025 point to timing chain or VTC issues; address them before buying.