The gearbox of the Nissan Murano has to cope with the size and weight of this SUV, which made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002. Spanning three generations through to 2024, this vehicle — appreciated for its comfortable cabin — places considerable demands on its transmission, making regular maintenance all the more important.
On the Murano, the gearbox is almost always automatic, with four to six ratios depending on the generation, or a continuously variable transmission available across the entire range. A manual gearbox was never offered, although a steering-wheel-mounted control does allow certain versions to adopt a more dynamic mode. Here is how to look after this mechanism and respond effectively should a fault arise.
The Nissan Murano's Transmission: What Makes It Different
Because it has no clutch pedal or conventional gear lever, the Murano's automatic gearbox greatly reduces the risk of driver error. One rule remains absolutely essential, however: never engage reverse or the park position until the SUV has come to a complete stop, as doing so can cause lasting damage to the transmission. The continuously variable transmission, for its part, constantly adjusts engine speed without relying on the fixed ratios of a traditional gearbox.
Day-to-Day Gearbox Maintenance
Listen to What Your Vehicle Is Telling You
On a heavy SUV like the Nissan Murano, even the slightest unusual sign deserves attention. Make a note of each occurrence so you can discuss it with your mechanic:
- noises such as whining, grinding or clunking;
- burning smells inside the cabin;
- excessive vibrations;
- a general drop in performance (sluggish acceleration, engine struggling).
Acting early prevents a minor fault from spreading to the rest of the transmission.
Keep an Eye on the Gearbox Oil
Not to be confused with engine oil, gearbox oil lubricates every component, dissipates heat and has detergent properties that flush out metallic residues. Over time it becomes saturated and can no longer do its job: an oil change then becomes necessary, generally every two years or every 60,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. A leak underneath the vehicle calls for a prompt visit to a professional. To better understand the role of each component, see our guide on how a gearbox works.
Repairing or Replacing the Gearbox
Only a mechanic's diagnosis can determine with certainty the right course of action. Many problems can be dealt with directly at the garage: an oil change, replacing a worn gear. In more complex cases, a complete gearbox replacement is required, and several options are available.
New and Second-Hand Gearboxes: Two Dead Ends
A new gearbox is reliable, but its high price and limited availability make it impractical — these parts are primarily intended for new vehicles. The second-hand market, meanwhile, never allows you to test the gearbox before fitting it to your Murano: it is a gamble best avoided.
The Reconditioned Exchange Gearbox
To combine reliability with a controlled budget, our reconditioned exchange gearboxes are fully stripped down, thoroughly cleaned and tested in every respect. The process is also environmentally friendly: your old gearbox is taken back for recycling. Browse our gearbox catalogue and the Nissan selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nissan Murano Available with a Manual Gearbox?
No. The Murano has always been offered with an automatic gearbox or a continuously variable transmission, with certain versions providing a sequential mode via a steering-wheel-mounted control.
When Should the Gearbox Oil Be Changed?
As a general rule, every two years or every 60,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Heavy use or a leak may bring this forward.
Can a Continuously Variable Transmission Be Repaired?
Some repairs remain possible at the garage, but an advanced fault often leads to a complete replacement. An exchange gearbox is then an attractive alternative to a new part.
Where Can I Find More Guides for Nissan SUVs?
See our advice on the Nissan Qashqai gearbox or the Nissan X-Trail gearbox.
Why Choose EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES reconditions exchange gearboxes to breathe new life into your Nissan Murano. Our commitments:
- a warranty of up to 24 months;
- pay in up to 10 instalments;
- delivery throughout France and the European Union, with a lead time confirmed on quote;
- a satisfaction-or-money-back guarantee on the exchange gearbox, subject to our Terms and Conditions.
To find the gearbox compatible with your SUV, have your gearbox code or number plate to hand and explore the Nissan range.
