Like every car model, the 2nd gen Nissan Murano has problems particular to its generation, like sluggish acceleration or ticking noises. We cover the signs, causes, and fixes of these common problems to help you know more about the 2nd generation Nissan Murano, years 2009 to 2014.
Top 5 Issues on the 2009 to 2014 Nissan Murano
1. Driver Side Seat Shifting Problems
Symptoms of Driver Seat Shifting Problems on the 2009 to 2014 Nissan Murano
- Whenever you accelerate or step on the brake pedal, you may feel the seat shift forward and back.
Causes of the Driver Seat Shifting
If the driver seat is shifting, it’s usually an issue with the adjuster underneath the seat adjusting independently. The channels the adjustor sits in has actuators that help secure the seat at different positions. If the channel is blocked, the seat will not slide and lock into new positions on that side. The actuators may also be broken and failing to secure the seat. The seat channel may also have rusted, rotted, or broke.
How to Fix the Driver Seat Shifting Independently
Inspect the seat’s channels for debris that may be affecting its adjustment. If there is rust or cracked and broken metal, the adjusting unit may have to be replaced, which can be expensive.
Preventative Maintenance Tip: Lubricate the channels to help prevent them from breaking.
2. Motor Mount Wear
Symptom of Bad Motor Mounts
- Vibration or thumping under acceleration
- Vibration or thumping when shifting under load
- With the hood up and the engine running, you may see the engine moving excessively
Note: The vibration or thump is usually felt close to the driver’s feet and near the firewall.
Causes of Bad Motor Mounts
The rubber can break down and tear over time, creating a clunking noise as it loosens.
How to Fix Bad Motor Mounts
Replace the motor mounts. We recommend replacing all the motor mounts at once if they are a similar age. They are likely to wear out soon—especially if the engine has been rocking excessively.
Steps for Testing the Motor Mounts
- Start the Vehicle
Have an assistant start the vehicle
- Press the Brake Pedal
Have an assistant press the brake pedal at all times
- Put the Emergency Brake on
Have an assistant put the e-brake on
- Shift Gears and Accelerate
Have an assistant put the vehicle into drive or reverse and press the gas pedal
- Watch the Engine for Excessive Movement
Watch the engine and motor mount for excessive movement when the gas pedal is pressed. A little movement is common
3. EVAP Codes
Symptoms of a EVAP Codes
- Check engine light is on for code P0456
Causes of a EVAP Codes on the 2nd Gen Nissan Murano
The 2009 to 2014 Murano tends to run EVAP codes for a small leak in the EVAP system
How to Fix EVAP Codes
- First, check the condition of the gas cap for its ability to tighten. Check the gas cap gasket for tearing, looseness, or breaking.
- A smoke test can also help detect where the leak is.
- Check the EVAP vent valve. Check the o-ring gasket on the EVAP vent valve for dryness, brittleness, or cracking. Usually it’s a problem with the seal, but replacing the EVAP vent valve may fix this issue.
4. Ticking Timing Chain Noise
Symptoms of Bad Timing Chain Guides and Tensioners
- Ticking or rattling noise at start up that may last longer than a few seconds
- Anywhere from a drop in engine performance to the engine not running
Causes of a Ticking Noise on the 2009 to 2014 Nissan Murano
A short ticking at start up is likely from low engine oil. On the 2nd gen Nissan Murano, it’s common for the timing chain and guides to wear down, creating slack and making a prolonged ticking noise.
How to Fix a Timing Chain Ticking Noise
Change the oil regularly at the recommended intervals and check the oil regularly. Add oil between the intervals as necessary.
If the issue is with the timing chain and/or guides, we recommend replacing both. Since this repair is labor intensive on this vehicle, we recommend bringing it to a professional.
5. Throttle Body
Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Body
- Drop in fuel economy
- Slow or sluggish acceleration
Causes of a Bad Throttle Body on the 2nd Gen Nissan Murano
The throttle body on the 2009 to 2014 Murano tends to build up carbon and is not always easy to clean because it is electronic.
How to Fix a Bad Throttle Body
You can try cleaning the throttle body without removing it, but it is difficult to clean them because the throttle body is electronic and moving the throttle body blade can offset the computer’s reading. To make cleaning easier and to access the back of the blade, we recommend removing the throttle body.
Mechanic’s Tip: When cleaning the throttle body, do not move the blade so it does not mess up the gearing or calibration inside the electronic motor.
Once the throttle body has been cleaned and is reinstalled, you may notice an erratic idle at start-up. This means the throttle body needs to be recalibrated, which can be done with a scan tool or by disconnecting the negative battery terminal and letting the car sit for an hour. Then start the car and let it run until the engine is operating normally.
Fix Your Own Nissan Murano
Fix your own 2009 to 2014 Nissan Murano with 1A Auto’s how-to videos that cover many repairs for parts like the wheel hubs, control arms, headlights, struts, brakes, and more
Shop 2nd Gen Nissan Murano Parts
Related Content
- Vibration Under Acceleration?
- Gas Cap Throwing a Check Engine Light? [Diagnose & Fix]
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Why It Happens, How to Prevent It, and How to Fix It
- How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
- Throttle Body Cleaning Tips [Expert Advice]
2nd Generation Nissan Murano Model Years
- 2009 Nissan Murano
- 2010 Nissan Murano
- 2011 Nissan Murano
- 2012 Nissan Murano
- 2013 Nissan Murano
- 2014 Nissan Murano
I hear a one-click noise whe i accelerate or when i shft from reverse to drive, it usaully happens upon acceleration and the weight of the vehicle is shiftting upon take off. Keep in mind I sm not accelerating fast, just a normal take off.