NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Air Bags complaints
91 reportsClear category filter130,000 miles · Jun 23, 2026
Air BagsService Brakes, HydraulicCrash
The contact owned a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that several years ago, the vehicle was stolen, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was involved in a crash and that the air bags should have deployed; however, the air bags failed to deploy. The contact was unaware of several details associated with the crash,…
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The contact owned a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that several years ago, the vehicle was stolen, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was involved in a crash and that the air bags should have deployed; however, the air bags failed to deploy. The contact was unaware of several details associated with the crash, including the speed at the time of the crash. The vehicle was towed and returned to the contact by the Police Department. A Police report was filed, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was deemed a total loss. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V916000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the vehicle was not repaired under the recall. The manufacturer was informed of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
NHTSA ODI #11745898
94,000 miles · Sep 11, 2024
Air Bags
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the front passenger air bag failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to …
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The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the front passenger air bag failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.
NHTSA ODI #11614000
Mileage unknown · Jul 7, 2024
Air BagsService BrakesWheels
Falla en abs y ruedas riesgo al frenar tarda demasiado luces de abs vdc off AWD y tpms
NHTSA ODI #11599811
Mileage unknown · Dec 27, 2023
Air Bags
Blinking airbag sign in my Nissan Murano since week. Reset did not work by mechanic..
NHTSA ODI #11562129
Mileage unknown · Nov 28, 2023
Air BagsElectrical SystemSeats
Passenger seat sensor light for air bag stays lit, flashing 1 steady and 5 bursts. Shows airbag off even with adult sitting in passenger seat
NHTSA ODI #11557271
Mileage unknown · Mar 24, 2023
Air Bags
Nissan has a voluntary recall for faulty air bag sensors on 2009 Nissan Murano but when you take it in they say your vin is not included. This is fraud because they know that ALL Muranos from 2009 and other years have a faulty sensor in the passenger seat and the air bags will NOT deploy. They lie because the fix is a new seat c…
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Nissan has a voluntary recall for faulty air bag sensors on 2009 Nissan Murano but when you take it in they say your vin is not included. This is fraud because they know that ALL Muranos from 2009 and other years have a faulty sensor in the passenger seat and the air bags will NOT deploy. They lie because the fix is a new seat cushion which is expensive. They try to charge owners $5000 to repair a safety issue that is their responsibility. There are many, many complaints for this issue and many people are driving around without airbags because of Nissan’s dereliction. How many people will die??
NHTSA ODI #11513684
Mileage unknown · Feb 15, 2023
Air Bags
In reference to my 2009 Murano, I like to bring my concern/complaint into your attention that since Jan 07, 2023, my Murano's airbag light is blinking. On Jan. 16, 2023, I took my SUV to ACME Nissan dealer situated at 2050 Highway 130, South Brunswick, NJ. 08852 for checkup and repair. Dealer diagnosed airbag issue code B1018 an…
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In reference to my 2009 Murano, I like to bring my concern/complaint into your attention that since Jan 07, 2023, my Murano's airbag light is blinking. On Jan. 16, 2023, I took my SUV to ACME Nissan dealer situated at 2050 Highway 130, South Brunswick, NJ. 08852 for checkup and repair. Dealer diagnosed airbag issue code B1018 and advised "in control unit K8820-1AL0A and 873A2-3Z53A seat sensor are bad and need to be replaced. Dealer mentioned that they cannot replace these part/sensors, because they are not available thru Nissan anymore. Dealer also tried to get these parts from the aftermarket dealer. But these parts are also not available in aftermarket. Not functioning of airbags is a big-time Safety issue. I contacted Nissan customer service support and opened the case (48254432). But some reason they are not helping me at all in resolving this safety issue. Their answer is, they cannot do anything for this issue. While going through the Nissan forum, I noticed that this safety issue is common in Nissan Murano. This wonders that why Nissan have not issued any recall on this airbag safety issues. Are they going to issue the recall after someone die in the accident because of this airbag issues. Now I cannot even trade my SUV because of this safety issue. Now I am too afraid to drive my 2009 Murano. I love my Murano so much it runs like a new and I am not in the position to buy a new Murano at this time. I would really appreciate if you can request Nissan to rectify this issue as soon as possible.
NHTSA ODI #11507429
Mileage unknown · Jan 14, 2023
Air Bags
The icon for the passenger airbags are flashing on my vehicle dashboard about two months ago (11/2022). Back in 2013 my vehicle was in a crash with substantial front end damage…no other vehicle was involved. Also the airbags in front row seats did not deploy. I’m planning on taking in my vehicle to get it checked out and tuned. …
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The icon for the passenger airbags are flashing on my vehicle dashboard about two months ago (11/2022). Back in 2013 my vehicle was in a crash with substantial front end damage…no other vehicle was involved. Also the airbags in front row seats did not deploy. I’m planning on taking in my vehicle to get it checked out and tuned. Any guidance from NHTSA is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
NHTSA ODI #11501794
90,000 miles · Sep 2, 2022
Air Bags
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger's side air bag needed to be replaced; however, the parts were not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The …
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The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the passenger's side air bag needed to be replaced; however, the parts were not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer informed the contact that the passenger's side air bag part was no longer being manufactured. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000. The consumer stated that a replacement part was available from a salvage dealer but it wouldn't work because her vehicle would need the exact make and model that it came with. The vehicle is yet to be repaired and the passenger air bag sensor is still faulty.
NHTSA ODI #11482546
207,000 miles · Aug 26, 2022
Air Bags
The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that a diagnostic test was performed on the vehicle by the dealer and it was determined that a sensor in the front driver’s side seat was defective, causing the failure. The cont…
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The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that a diagnostic test was performed on the vehicle by the dealer and it was determined that a sensor in the front driver’s side seat was defective, causing the failure. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacture was also notified of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall on the VIN and the warranty had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 207,000.
NHTSA ODI #11481369
Official recalls
4Dec 19, 2018
Nissan of North America, Inc (Nissan) is recalling certain 2009 Murano vehicles. The valves within the ABS Hydraulic Control Units (HCU) may react with brake fluids containing specific corrosion preventative additives. This reaction may cause the valves to not close properly.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the valves do not properly close, additional brake pedal travel may be required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Nissan has notified owners, and dealers will flush the brake system with DOT 4 fluid. The HCU will then be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition. If necessary, the HCU will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.
Oct 5, 2009
NISSAN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2010 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WASHINGTON D.C., WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN. THE MATERIAL IN THE NUT USED TO SECURE THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER OF THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS) MAY CORRODE AND POTENTIALLY CRACK IN AREAS WITH HEAVY CONCENTRATIONS OF ROAD SALT. IF THIS OCCURS, THE NUT MAY COME OUT OF THE SENSOR-TRANSMITTER AND THE TPMS LAMP WILL ILLUMINATE.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IF THE TPMS LAMP IS DISREGARDED AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO BE DRIVEN IN THIS CONDITION, THE TIRE WILL QUICKLY LOSE AIR PRESSURE AT A CONSISTENT RATE RESULTING IN A FLAT TIRE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TPMS NUT WITH A NEW, MORE ROBUST NUT. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE NOVEMBER 9, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 AND INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Oct 7, 2008
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:software
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Air Bags
NISSAN IS RECALLING 204,361 MY 2007-2008 ALTIMA, ALTIMA HYBRID, 350Z, 350Z ROADSTER, MY 2008 ALTIMA COUPE, ROGUE, MY 2009 MURANO, AND INFINITI MY 2007-2008 G35 SEDAN, MY 2008 G37 COUPE AND EX35 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS' OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) CONTROL UNITS. A VARISTOR IN THE OCS CONTROL UNIT LOCATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT CUSHION MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED OUT OF SPECIFICATION. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU).
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG BEING SUPPRESSED WHICH COULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE SIGNAL BETWEEN THE OCS AND ACU SYSTEMS USING A SPECIAL TOOL TO CHECK THAT IT IS FUNCTIONING AS DESIGNED. IF NECESSARY, THE SEAT CUSHION (CONTAINING OCS HARDWARE) WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE MANUFACTURED TO SPECIFICATION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261 OR INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200.
Feb 12, 2008
NISSAN IS RECALLING 16,365 MY 2008 INFINITI EX35 AND MY 2009 NISSAN MURANO VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING, THE AIR BAG CONTROL UNIT (ACU) MAY CAUSE THE PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT TO OPERATE AS DESIGNED IF THE VEHICLE BATTERY BECOMES SIGNIFICANTLY DISCHARGED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT INFLATING IN A CRASH IN WHICH IT WAS DESIGNED TO DO SO, AND INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE ACU IN AFFECTED VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 19, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT INFINITI AT 1-800-662-6200 OR NISSAN AT 1-800-647-7261.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
2EA18001 · Extended Braking Distances
Opened Apr 18, 2018 · Closed Jan 17, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip
On April 18, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001 to investigate reports of braking concerns in model year (MY) 2009 Nissan Murano vehicles. A failure of the hydraulic control unit (HCU) portion of the antilock brake system (ABS), which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve(s), can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness. Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.The corrosion-preventive, zinc coating used on the armatures of the normally closed (NC) valves within ABS HCU may react with brake fluids lacking sufficient corrosion-preventative additives. This reaction can cause the formation of a gelatinous material, which may cause the NC valves to close slowly. Over time, the gel can solidify to an extent such that the spring used to return the valve to the closed position may not be able to overcome the gel buildup, allowing the NC valve to remain open. If any of the four NC valves remains open, fluid will be diverted to one or two accumulator(s). This misdirected fluid has the net effect of causing brake pedal travel to increase, however enough stroke remains in the pedal to generate braking force. Although the hydraulic braking system remains intact and full braking force is maintained once the pedal travels the additional distance, when this condition occurs, the initial increase in brake pedal travel could result in increased stopping distance. An existing Nissan Service Campaign was launched for MY 2009 vehicles built prior to 11/1/2007. After consultation with ODI as part of EA18-001, Nissan decided to expand this population to the full range of MY2009 Murano vehicles. Later Murano vehicles exhibit significantly lower rates of malfunction.During this investigation 156 complaints were identified that related to the braking concern. Within the complainants 2 allege crashes with 4 injuries. The Nissan reports from investigation Information Request letter responses, were similar in content and identified 870 reports with 16 crashes and no injuries.On December 19, 2018, Nissan notified ODI it would conduct a safety recall (18V916) to remedy the ABS modules on certain MY 2009 Nissan Murano vehicles. The remedy procedure involves dealers flushing the brake system with DOT 4 fluid. The HCU will then be tested to detect a possible stuck valve condition. If necessary, the HCU will be replaced. The 2010-14 Murano SUVs outside the recall population and equipped with zinc-coated armatures will be inspected under a service campaign P0A08 using the same procedure as recall 18V916.Continental HCUs with a redesigned armature coating were phased into new vehicle production after December 2014 and do not appear to be experiencing corrosion. The recall action initiated by the manufacturer appears to address the safety risks of concern to ODI. Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exists on other model or MY vehicles outside of the recall scope. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For a complete summary of this investigation and related consumer complaints, please see attached closing resume document.
PE17002 · Extended Braking Distances
Opened May 3, 2017 · Closed May 4, 2018
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes; Service Brakes, Air:antilock; Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Service Brakes, Air:antilock:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Service Brakes, Air:antilock
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
Service Brakes
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is closing this Preliminary Evaluation and upgrading to an Engineering Analysis (EA) 18-001.During the PE, ODI requested and reviewed information provided by Nissan including consumer complaints and other field and technical data related to failures of the hydraulic control unit (HCU), an electro-mechanical brake system component that provides antilock braking and other functionality in the subject model year (MY) 2009 Murano.The subject failure of the HCU, which involves improper operation of an internal hydraulic control valve, can cause extended brake pedal travel and may result in a reduction in overall braking effectiveness.Tier-one supplier Continental manufactured the HCU for Nissan.ODI currently recognizes 484 subject vehicle complaints that appear related to the alleged defect.Fourteen crash allegations, with three non-life threatening injuries are under evaluation also.ODI has been monitoring consumer complaints received, and in some cases has obtained suspect HCUs from complainants' vehicles.Recovered HCUs sent to NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) in East Liberty, Ohio are under evaluation, and VRTC has conducted limited vehicle testing also.In a July 28, 2017 submission, Nissan acknowledged that a failure of the HCU can result in increased brake pedal travel during braking.Nissan's analysis of returned parts revealed that a zinc coating used on the normally closed valve assemblies inside the HCU may react with certain brake fluid constituents.The reaction results in the formation of a gelatinous material that can harden with time and prevent the valve from closing after opening in an ABS event.When this occurs, Nissan maintains that the hydraulic brake system remains intact and that full braking is available once the pedal travels an additional distance, about 36 mm according to Nissan.Although still under investigation, Nissan states it has not determined the condition represents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety, citing low rate and vehicle age as additional factors.In March 2018, Nissan began conducting a customer satisfaction campaign on certain MY 2009 Murano to service (flush and replace the brake fluid), and then test and replace the HCU as needed.The campaign is being conducted free of charge to customers.During the EA, ODI will request VRTC continue to evaluate the cause and consequence of HCU failures, including the affects of multi-valve failures.ODI will further study the potential scope of the alleged defect as it understands similar HCUs and brake fluid is used in other MY Muranos, and potentially in other Nissan models as well.ODI notes that improved valve coatings were introduced on Nissan HCUs at some subsequent stage.
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