NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
635 reports73,000 miles · Dec 14, 2016
Service Brakes
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. AFTER DRIVING OVER A POTHOLE, THE BRAKES FAILED TO FUNCTION AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE HAD TO BE APPLIED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE AND DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAIL…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. AFTER DRIVING OVER A POTHOLE, THE BRAKES FAILED TO FUNCTION AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE HAD TO BE APPLIED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE AND DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO SOLUTION. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,000.
NHTSA ODI #10935209
66,000 miles · Nov 29, 2016
Service Brakes
BRAKES SUDDENLY ARE SPONGY AND SOFT. NEED TO BE DEPRESSED MUCH MORE THAN NORMAL. THIS IS A CONDITION THAT HAS APPEARED SUDDENLY. TOOK CAR TO MECHANIC AND HE REPLACED REAR BRAKES, TURNED ROTORS, AND REPLACED THE MASTER CYLINDER TWICE, BOTH RESULTING IN THE SAME SPONGY BRAKE CONDITION.
NHTSA ODI #10928683
99,000 miles · Nov 24, 2016
Service Brakes
AT APPROXIMATELY 99,000 MILES I ENCOUNTERED A LIMITED NUMBER OF INSTANCES WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL LOST PRESSURE, BECOMING VERY "SOFT", WHILE DRIVING. THE SITUATION BECAME DANGEROUS AS THE BRAKES WERE LESS RESPONSIVE. THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD DISPLACE SEVERAL INCHES AND THE CAR WOULD BE DIFFICULT TO STOP. AFTER PARKING FOR A PERIOD,…
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AT APPROXIMATELY 99,000 MILES I ENCOUNTERED A LIMITED NUMBER OF INSTANCES WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL LOST PRESSURE, BECOMING VERY "SOFT", WHILE DRIVING. THE SITUATION BECAME DANGEROUS AS THE BRAKES WERE LESS RESPONSIVE. THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD DISPLACE SEVERAL INCHES AND THE CAR WOULD BE DIFFICULT TO STOP. AFTER PARKING FOR A PERIOD, BRAKE OPERATION APPEARED TO RETURN TO NORMAL. I EVENTUALLY SUSPECTED THE ISSUE WAS TRIGGERED BY THE ABS. I TOOK TO THE DEALER, DESCRIBED THE ISSUE AND REQUESTED A BRAKE DIAGNOSTIC WHICH CONFIRMED THAT THE ABS ACTUATOR WAS DEFECTIVE. NOW FACING A REPAIR OF ~$2400 WHICH CAN'T BE AVOIDED AS HAVING THE ABS SYSTEM MALFUNCTION REPRESENTS A SIGNIFICANT HAZARD. MY DAUGHTER IS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE AT COLLEGE AND LIKELY WOULD NOT BE EXPERIENCED TO HANDLE WHAT I EXPERIENCED. WHILE AT JUST OVER 100,000 MILES, THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN MAINTAINED VERY WELL AND THIS TYPE OF SYSTEM DEFECT SEEMS UNUSUAL AND DANGEROUS.
NHTSA ODI #10927763
42,253 miles · Nov 17, 2016
Service Brakes
WHILE DRIVING ON THE ROAD, AFTER MY CAR HIT A RACCOON THE BREAK PEDAL WENT SOFT AND LOST PRESSURE TOTALLY AND THE CAR WAS NOT STOPPING. I WAS EVENTUALLY ABLE TO GET THE CAR STOPPED AFTER A FEW HUNDRED METERS BY USING THE PARKING BREAK. THE BREAK PEDAL WAS PRESSED COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR AND NO PRESSURE AT ALL. I WAS LUCKY TO BE…
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WHILE DRIVING ON THE ROAD, AFTER MY CAR HIT A RACCOON THE BREAK PEDAL WENT SOFT AND LOST PRESSURE TOTALLY AND THE CAR WAS NOT STOPPING. I WAS EVENTUALLY ABLE TO GET THE CAR STOPPED AFTER A FEW HUNDRED METERS BY USING THE PARKING BREAK. THE BREAK PEDAL WAS PRESSED COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR AND NO PRESSURE AT ALL. I WAS LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO STOP THE CAR WITHOUT COLLISION WITH THE BREAK SUDDEN OUT OF CONTROL, BUT REALLY IN A PANIC WITH EXTREME CONCERNS OF MY DRIVING SAFETY. I TURNED OFF THE CAR FOR A WHILE AND TURN BACK ON, THE BREAK RETURNED TO NORMAL AND I COULD DRIVE MY CAR HOME SLOWLY. I BROUGHT MY CAR TO THE DEALER NEXT DAY AND THE ISSUE SEEMS WELL KNOWN BY THE DEALER BUT THEY HAVE NOTHING TO DO TO SOLVE IT. THIS BREAK ISSUE HAPPENED FEW TIMES BEFORE WHILE DRIVING OVER A BUMP. I FOUND THIS IS MOST LIKELY THE SAME ABS MOTOR MODULATOR ISSUE OTHERS HAVE CLAIMED, NISSAN SHOULD SET A RECALL TO FIX THIS ASAP TO AVOID TRAGEDIES ON THE ROAD.
NHTSA ODI #10926733
60,000 miles · Nov 13, 2016
Service Brakes
EVERY TIME THE ABS SYSTEM IS ENGAGED DUE TO SLIPPING ON ROUGH ROAD OR LEAVES ETC, THE BRAKES BECOME SPONGY AND UNRESPONSIVE. IN ADDITION, THE PEDAL TRAVELS ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THIS HAPPENS AT ANY SPEED, ANY TIME THE ABS SYSTEM IS CALLED UPON. IT IS CLEAR THERE IS A BYPASS VALVE THAT IS NOT RETURNING TO ITS NORMAL POSITI…
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EVERY TIME THE ABS SYSTEM IS ENGAGED DUE TO SLIPPING ON ROUGH ROAD OR LEAVES ETC, THE BRAKES BECOME SPONGY AND UNRESPONSIVE. IN ADDITION, THE PEDAL TRAVELS ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THIS HAPPENS AT ANY SPEED, ANY TIME THE ABS SYSTEM IS CALLED UPON. IT IS CLEAR THERE IS A BYPASS VALVE THAT IS NOT RETURNING TO ITS NORMAL POSITION. IT IS UNACCEPTABLE THAT, WITH OVER 30 COMPLAINTS TO THE NTSA, NO RESEARCH HAS BEEN DONE ON THIS ISSUE BY NISSAN. THE REPLACEMENT PART IS AROUND $1500, POSSIBLY THE MOST EXPENSIVE SINGLE BRAKE PART IN EXISTENCE.
NHTSA ODI #10925681
162,000 miles · Oct 31, 2016
Engine And Engine Cooling
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE AND A ROTTEN ODOR COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER FAILED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,000.
NHTSA ODI #10920293
98,000 miles · Oct 24, 2016
Service Brakes
WHILE BRAKING FOR A YELLOW LIGHT, I HIT A POTHOLE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TOTALLY SOFT, DROPPED TO THE FLOOR, AND THE CAR WAS NOT STOPPING. I COASTED THROUGH THE RED LIGHT AND WAS ABLE TO GET ENOUGH PRESSURE FROM THE PEDAL TO STOP THE CAR A FEW HUNDRED FEET LATER. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS PRESSED COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR. I TURNED TH…
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WHILE BRAKING FOR A YELLOW LIGHT, I HIT A POTHOLE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TOTALLY SOFT, DROPPED TO THE FLOOR, AND THE CAR WAS NOT STOPPING. I COASTED THROUGH THE RED LIGHT AND WAS ABLE TO GET ENOUGH PRESSURE FROM THE PEDAL TO STOP THE CAR A FEW HUNDRED FEET LATER. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS PRESSED COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR. I TURNED THE CAR OFF TO CONSIDER MY OPTIONS (AND PANIC A LITTLE), THEN TURNED IT BACK ON. THE BRAKE RETURNED TO NORMAL HEIGHT AND PRESSURE. I DROVE THE 15 MILES HOME VERY CAUTIOUSLY. BRAKES HAVE BEEN FINE SINCE, BUT I HAVE BEEN DRIVING INCREDIBLY SLOWLY AND CAUTIOUSLY. CAR IS WITH THE DEALER NOW TO TROUBLESHOOT, THOUGH I AM GUESSING IT'S THE SAME ABS MOTOR MODULATOR ISSUE OTHERS HAVE HAD. IT SEEMS LIKE THIS FIX ISN'T QUITE KNOWN TO 100% BE THE FIX, AND SO I AM INCREDIBLY LEERY OF DRIVING THIS CAR ANY MORE, EVEN REPAIRED. MY FAMILY'S SAFETY IS TOO IMPORTANT TO NOT BE SURE. SHOPPING FOR ITS REPLACEMENT NOW. FAILURE FIRST OCCURRED AT 98K MILES. *TR
NHTSA ODI #10918518
116,716 miles · Oct 22, 2016
Power Train
I HAVE OWNED TWO NISSAN VEHICLES. THE FIRST NISSAN I OWNED WAS AN 08 ALTIMA THAT HAD A TRANSMISSION ISSUE AT 25,000 MILES. MY CURRENT NISSAN IS AN 09 MURANO. THIS VEHICLES TRANSMISSION STARTED TO MAKE NOISE AT 116,000 MILES. AT THE TIME I BROUGHT IT INTO A SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT NISSAN HAS A LOT OF TRANSMISSION ISSUES. BECAUSE I…
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I HAVE OWNED TWO NISSAN VEHICLES. THE FIRST NISSAN I OWNED WAS AN 08 ALTIMA THAT HAD A TRANSMISSION ISSUE AT 25,000 MILES. MY CURRENT NISSAN IS AN 09 MURANO. THIS VEHICLES TRANSMISSION STARTED TO MAKE NOISE AT 116,000 MILES. AT THE TIME I BROUGHT IT INTO A SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT NISSAN HAS A LOT OF TRANSMISSION ISSUES. BECAUSE I WAS TOLD THAT MY WARRANTY WAS 60,000 MILES, I DID NOT BRING MY VEHICLE TO NISSAN. AFTER A FEW MONTHS WE DECIDED TO LOOK UP IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS. MY HUSBAND FOUND ON THE NISSAN SITE THAT DUE TO ISSUES THEY HAD WITH THE CVT TRANSMISSION THEY EXTENDED THEIR WARRANTY FROM 60,000 MILES TO 120,000 MILES. WE WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS. I IMMEDIATELY BROUGHT MY CAR INTO NISSAN AND HAD THEM LOOK AT IT. THEY SAID MY TRANSMISSION WAS BAD AND NEVER MENTIONED THE WARRANTY. I CALLED NISSAN OF NORTH AMERICA'S CUSTOMER SERVICE AND HAD MY CASE REVIEWED. THEY ADVISED ME THAT THERE WASN'T A RECALL BUT ONLY A WARRANTY EXTENSION. THEY OFFERED TO PAY 50% SINCE I WAS NOW AT 123,000 MILES. I LET THEM KNOW I HAD DOCUMENTATION SHOWING I HAD THE ISSUE PRIOR BUT THEY HAVE NOT DONE ANYTHING FURTHER.
NHTSA ODI #10918062
91,000 miles · Oct 13, 2016
Service Brakes
OUR 2009 NISSAN MURANO LOST BREAK PRESSURE A FEW MONTHS AGO. TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE TUNE OF ABOUT $700. LESS THAN TWO MONTHS LATER IT IS HAPPENING AGAIN (BREAK ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR). UNFORTUNATELY I DIDN'T REALIZE UNTIL NOW THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSUE. I CANNOT BELIEVE THERE HASN'T…
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OUR 2009 NISSAN MURANO LOST BREAK PRESSURE A FEW MONTHS AGO. TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE TUNE OF ABOUT $700. LESS THAN TWO MONTHS LATER IT IS HAPPENING AGAIN (BREAK ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR). UNFORTUNATELY I DIDN'T REALIZE UNTIL NOW THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSUE. I CANNOT BELIEVE THERE HASN'T BEEN A RECALL FOR THIS POTENTIALLY LIFE THREATENING PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI #10916005
127,000 miles · Oct 5, 2016
Service Brakes
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO DECREASE IN SPEED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ABS CONTROL FAILED. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,0…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 NISSAN MURANO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO DECREASE IN SPEED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ABS CONTROL FAILED. THE MANUFACTURE WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000.
NHTSA ODI #10913911
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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