Last updated: 2026-04-20

2021 Nissan Murano Reliability Report
The 2021 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.
Recalls
0
Complaints
14
Complaint Rate
N/A
Est. Repair Cost
$507
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,600–$2,700
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5)
- SEAT BELTS (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is 1 year after the minor updates refresh.
- Year 7 in the Third generation (Z52) (2015–2024).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 3rd generation Murano (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2015: Third generation (Z52) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2021: This Model Year
2021 is 1 year after the minor updates refresh.
Should You Buy the 2021 Nissan Murano?
The 2021 Nissan Murano earns an Excellent 82/100 reliability score. 2021 is 1 year after the minor updates refresh.
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 2022 Nissan Murano, which scored the same. See also the 2020 Nissan Murano for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +$14 cheaper to maintain than avg compact SUVs
- +Low major repair risk (14%)
- +No recalls issued
- +Low complaint frequency
Cons
- −FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: Unexpected braking and failure to activate when needed (5 complaints)
- −Forward collision avoidance failures reported at 25,000–35,000 miles
Compare 2021 Nissan Murano With

2021 Mazda CX-5
Reliability: 83/100

2021 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 77/100

2021 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 78/100

2021 Subaru Forester
Reliability: 76/100

2021 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability: 74/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2021 Nissan Murano — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
14
complaintsSafety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2021 Nissan Murano? Check its history first
Every 2021 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
2021 Nissan Murano NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.9%
Safety Technologies
Nissan MuranoRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based 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
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Nissan Murano Resale Value
The Nissan Murano is estimated to retain about 56.8% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Nissan Murano model overall and is not specific to the 2021 model year.
- Value Retained
- 56.8%
- Depreciation
- 43.2%
- Listings Analyzed
- 121
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Nissan Murano depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
22–23 MPG
Running cost: $3,100–$3,200/yr
Fuel + repair
20 city / 27–28 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 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murano FWD 3.5L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S7) | 20 | 28 | 23 | $2,600 |
| Murano AWD 3.5L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S7) | 20 | 27 | 22 | $2,700 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Nissan Murano.
Inspect panoramic sunroof drainage for blockages or leaks
Check for moisture or condensation in headlight assemblies
Test forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking
Verify cruise control maintains speed on downhill slopes
Examine electrical connectors for signs of corrosion
Ensure rear seat belt buckles engage properly
2021 Nissan Murano Common Problems by Component
14 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
5 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2021 Nissan Murano's forward collision avoidance system, particularly involving unexpected braking and failure to activate when needed. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle's brakes engaging suddenly without any apparent obstacle, sometimes while driving at highway speeds or in parking structures, with mileage as low as 25,000. Additionally, some owners describe the cruise control's inability to maintain speed on downhill slopes, leading to significant speed increases. The sudden braking incidents pose potential safety risks, as they could result in rear-end collisions. These issues are reported even when the vehicle is relatively new, and dealers often struggle to replicate the problems or provide satisfactory resolutions.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Nissan Murano report issues related to water intrusion and unintended acceleration. One complaint describes water leaking into the cabin due to a failure in the panoramic sunroof drainage system, leading to soaked A-pillars, floorboards, and corrosion in an electrical connector for the power liftgate, as well as moisture inside the headlight assembly affecting lighting functionality. This issue is noted at approximately 45,000 miles. Another owner reports an incident where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while stationary at a traffic light, requiring them to pump the brakes to avoid a collision. These complaints highlight potential safety risks, including electrical system damage and loss of vehicle control.
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintThe driver side rear seat belt buckle does not engage, the red button on buckle does not pop up
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintSafety-relatedOn Jan 15, 2025, my vehicle exhibited an unintended sudden acceleration event while applying the brakes to slow the vehicle. Shortly after applying the brakes, the vehicle's engine revved very high and the car launched forward despite my foot on the brake and then struck another vehicle in front of me. The automatic emergency braking did not trigger. The air bags did deploy. No significant injuries, but both cars were damaged, my Murano likely totaled. I am confident that I did not accidentally hit the gas pedal.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintThe component of the vehicle is the passenger headlight. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time.I was unable to see at night clearly with the use of only one headlight because the other headlight went out. At the time that the headlight went out I was on a 2 Lane Rd. with no street lights and it became very dark and difficult to see.The defect has been confirmed at a Nissan dealership on September 23. The dealership found separation of the assembly, causing the condensation in the passenger side headlight causing it not to work. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other entity, besides the certified Nissan dealership. The system warning message appeared only when the headlight went out.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintBack up system sensors alarms when nothing is behind vehicle and sometimes does not alarm when there is something behind me. I bought the car 5/31/2023 the problem started right away, I took my car to the dealership for repair on 6/7/2023 for the first time. They were unable to reproduce the issue, I have had my car at the dealership 6 times since, they have seen and videoed my car giving false warning lights and sounds like something is behind me even though nothing is behind me. They have replaced all 4 backup sensors and most recently the left blindside warning sensor and tail light, I still have the same issue. I have asked for a loaner car because I am worried I am going to back into something, they tell me this is not a safety issue and I am to drive the car even though there is a problem with the backup system. They have a specialist scheduled for 10/10/2023 to see if he can figure out what is wrong. Both the dealership and Nissan consumer affairs tell me the car is safe to drive with a malfunctioning camera system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaintCar stalls and dashboard goes blank or backup warning lights or other warning lights randomly coming on. I don't feel safe. My car could stall and cause accidents. 2 dealership inspected and said they could not find anything wrong.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact rented a 2021 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle, the rear windshield suddenly shattered. The contact indicated that during the failure, no object had struck the windshield to cause it to shatter. The manufacturer was notified but vehicle was a rental and would not discuss the defect. Also, Pennsylvania State Attorney but manufacturer declined to engage about the damage to the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not determined. The approximate failure mileage was 11,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintA specific cruise control feature of the 2021 Nissan Murano, in my opinion, is dangerous to operate and may or may have already caused a serious injury/accident. I have brought this concern to the people at the Dealership in Tucson, AZ on several occasions. I have also contact the Nissan North America Consumer Affairs Office in Franklin, TN. Both of these parties have told me the cruise control system is working properly. So what is my concern? The last four cars that I have owned had cruise control systems. Two of the cars were Nissan Muranos. A 2010 Nissan Murano and a 2014 Nissan Murano Platinum. All four the cars' cruise control systems operated the same. Unfortunately, the 2021 Nissan Murano's cruise control does not operate the same as my last four cars, The 2021 Murano has one feature that is very dangerous and needs looking into. Example of the four previous cars: Let's say you set the cruise control at 40mph and decide to increase to 50mph by pressing and holding the RESUME/+ lever. All of the other cars that I owned would allow me to do this and when the speed odometer reached 50mph I would release the RESUME/+ lever and the cruise speed would be 50mph.The 2021 Nissan Murano Platinum does not do this. Example of 2021 Murano: Let's say I set the cruise control speed at 40mph by pressing and holding the RESUME/+ lever to increase to 50mph and I release it when my speed odometer reached 50mph. The 2021 Murano does not stop at 50mph it would go to approximately 80mph unless the driver steps on the brake. FYI, I did drive two other 2021 Nissan loaners neither of which were Muranos, Both of those cars' cruise control operated as my previous four cars' cruise control system. The car's manual and videos' documents that the cruise control should operate differently.
When Do 2021 Nissan Murano Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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 scoreThe best Nissan Murano year is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (82/100) and 2022 (82/100).
Nissan Murano Years to Avoid
The worst Nissan Murano year is 2025 with a score of 74/100, primarily due to electrical system (4) issues. Also avoid 2020 (74/100).
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.
| 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 |
| 2026 | 82/100 | Excellent |
Nissan Murano Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Nissan Murano reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Nissan Murano?
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Murano have?
Is the 2021 Nissan Murano expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Nissan Murano without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Nissan Murano.
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