Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 82/100 (EXCELLENT)

2018 Nissan Murano Reliability Report

Name: 2018 Nissan Murano
Brand: Nissan

The 2018 Nissan Murano scores 82/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 0 recalls and 14 owner complaints.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

N/A

Est. Repair Cost

$507

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,500

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint SeverityN/A

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue DiversityN/A

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Buy

Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
LANE DEPARTURE (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2018 is year 4 of the Third generation (Z52).

Redesigned for the 2015 model year.
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
A refresh arrives in 2020.
3rd generation Murano (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2015: Third generation (Z52) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2018: This Model Year

2018 is year 4 of the Third generation (Z52).

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2018 Nissan Murano?

The 2018 Nissan Murano earns an Excellent 82/100 reliability score. 2018 is year 4 of the Third generation (Z52).

Across 0 recalls and 14 owner complaints, the ownership picture is dependable.

A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.

Compared to the 2019 Nissan Murano, which scored 5 points lower.

Pros

+Strong reliability score
+$14 cheaper to maintain than avg compact SUVs
+Low major repair risk (14%)
+No recalls issued
+Low complaint frequency

Cons

−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (4 complaints)
−1 fire incident reported in owner complaints

Compare 2018 Nissan Murano With

2018 Honda CR-V

Reliability: 65/100

Good

2018 Mazda CX-5

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2018 Hyundai Tucson

Reliability: 68/100

Good

2018 Subaru Forester

Reliability: 66/100

Good

2018 Chevrolet Equinox

Reliability: 69/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

No recalls are on record for the 2018 Nissan Murano — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

complaints

LowAvgHigh

Very Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2018 Nissan Murano? Check its history first

Every 2018 Nissan Murano has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2018 Nissan Murano NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 15.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Nissan MuranoRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$507

vs $521 avg for compact SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.5

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

14%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Murano

$507

Category Avg

$521

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

24 MPG

Running cost: $3,000/yr

Fuel + repair

21 city / 28 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Murano AWD 3.5L 6-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AV-S7)	21	28	24	$2,500
Murano FWD 3.5L 6-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AV-S7)	21	28	24	$2,500

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Nissan Murano.

Inspect for dashboard flickering and resetting
Test forward collision warning and cruise control systems for consistent operation
Check for signs of sunroof damage or replacement
Verify ABS and AEB warning lights are not active
Inspect for unauthorized modifications or tampering signs in the interior
Check for any recalls related to ABS and electrical systems

2018 Nissan Murano Common Problems by Component

14 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)LANE DEPARTURE (2)SERVICE BRAKES (1)POWER TRAIN (1)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report issues with the 2018 Nissan Murano's electrical system, including dashboard flickering and resetting, as well as traction control loss lights appearing unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention these symptoms occurring around 93,500 miles. One report involves a fire that destroyed the vehicle while parked, linked to a recall. Additionally, some owners describe unauthorized access and tampering by dealerships, resulting in mechanical and electrical problems not present before service. These issues pose potential safety risks, including stalling and fire hazards, which are critical for prospective buyers to consider.

4 complaints total1 fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Nissan Murano report issues with the panoramic sunroof shattering unexpectedly while driving, with one owner describing a loud explosion sound and a large hole in the sunroof, which could pose a safety risk if the interior sliding sunshade is open. Another complaint involves abnormal electrical behavior after a service visit, including unusual lighting effects and heat radiating through the cabin, suggesting possible system manipulation. These incidents occur at varying mileages, with one specifically noted at approximately 93,500 miles. The sunroof issue has potential safety implications, such as the risk of injury from falling glass or causing a loss of vehicle control.

3 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the forward collision warning (FCW) system in the 2018 Nissan Murano, where the warning light intermittently activates while driving. Complaints frequently mention that when the FCW light is on, the cruise control system becomes inoperative and requires resetting once the light turns off. Another common symptom described is the FCW system disabling itself within approximately 10 miles of driving, with the warning light clearing only after the vehicle is restarted. These issues have been reported to occur persistently over a period of two months or more. While no crashes or loss of control are mentioned, the disabling of the FCW system and its impact on cruise control functionality may be a consideration for potential buyers.

2 complaints total

LANE DEPARTURE (2 complaints)

LANE DEPARTURE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2018 Nissan Murano report issues related to lane departure and associated systems, with complaints frequently mentioning problems with the ABS actuator. Symptoms include the activation of warning lights such as the AEB and ABS on the dashboard, and some owners note that this issue affects the functionality of the cruise control. One owner describes a delay in obtaining replacement parts, indicating a backlog that could affect timely repairs. While specific mileage ranges are not detailed, the mention of parts being on back order since February suggests a persistent problem. These issues could have safety implications, particularly concerning vehicle control and reliability on highways.

2 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

2026-02-01

When my car gets to about 20mph the abs light comes on and stays on until I restart the car and drive it again then at 20 mph it come on again I know there are recalls on other Nissan Murano midnight edition for there abs system issues the nhtsa number is 19v807000 other numbers were r1916 and 1920 also 18v601000 my car is showing the same issues the other recalled vehicles are showing and needs to be added to the recall please contact me ty

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2020-04-07

During acceleration, vehicle has a jerkiness/shutter feeling throughout compartment.

VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

2024-10-07

System: Exterior Lighting / Visibility / Unknown or Other VIN: [XXX] Mileage: Approx. 93,500 Date: October 2024 Issue: After a service visit, my headlights became excessively bright and misaligned. The windshield also began reflecting light in distorted ways, especially at night or in rain. I now experience glare, light flickering, and visibility interference. This makes night driving unsafe and was not present before the dealership visit. I believe the components may have been altered or coated without my knowledge. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

When Do 2018 Nissan Murano Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

93,000–94,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Nissan Murano Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Nissan Murano Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Nissan Murano year is 2023 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2022 (82/100) and 2021 (82/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

Nissan Murano Years to Avoid

No Nissan Murano years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Nissan Murano maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Nissan Murano years-to-avoid analysis

Nissan Murano Reliability Score Trend

Nissan Murano reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 79/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Nissan Murano reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	82/100	Excellent
2019	77/100	Good
2020	74/100	Good
2021	82/100	Excellent
2022	82/100	Excellent
2023	82/100	Excellent
2025	74/100	Good

Nissan Murano Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	79/100 (predicted)	—	Predicted	0	1
2025	74/100	-8	Good	2	14
2023	82/100	0	Excellent	0	6
2022	82/100	0	Excellent	0	5
2021	82/100	+8	Excellent	0	14
2020	74/100	-3	Good	2	41
2019	77/100	-5	Good	1	39
2018(selected)	82/100	—	Excellent	0	14

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2018 Nissan Murano reliable?

Yes, the 2018 Nissan Murano is considered highly reliable with a score of 82/100 ("Excellent"). It has 0 recalls and a complaint rate below the segment average, placing it among the more dependable vehicles in its class.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Nissan Murano?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 Nissan Murano include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints), LANE DEPARTURE (2 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2018 Nissan Murano have?

The 2018 Nissan Murano has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.

Is the 2018 Nissan Murano expensive to maintain?

The 2018 Nissan Murano is expected to have below-average maintenance costs at $507/year, which is $14 less than the compact SUVs average of $521. Its high reliability score of 82/100 and complaint rate below the segment average suggest that unexpected repairs are uncommon.

Don’t buy a 2018 Nissan Murano without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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