Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

2018 Nissan Murano pre-purchase inspection checklist

What to check before you buy, built from NHTSA recall data, owner-reported failures, and mechanic intel. Print it or bring it to your mechanic.

Pre-purchase inspection · 2018 Nissan Murano
Check another vehicle
2018 Nissan Murano
S / SV / SL / Platinum (Z52, 3rd gen, 2015-2024)
Watchful

Z52 Murano is Nissan's most premium crossover with a genuinely upscale interior. The 3.5L VQ35DE V6 is one of Nissan's most proven engines — the CVT remains the risk vector. CVT service at 30k miles with genuine NS-3 fluid is mandatory. Body on Frame alternative? No — this is unibody-only. Strong buy for buyers who prioritize comfort and have documented service history.

Items to check
12
Open recalls
1
NHTSA complaints
130
Top concern
CVT fluid history / infotainment issues

Powertrain

Xtronic CVT fluid service history

High Attention
Same CVT reliability concern as the Altima and Rogue — NS-3 fluid required every 30k miles. Neglected fluid = belt slip, shudder, eventual failure.
Ask for CVT fluid service history. Test highway acceleration for hesitation or shudder.
Est. cost: $200–$350 fluid service / $3,500–$5,500 CVT replacement Source: Nissan CVT service standard

VQ35DE oil consumption check

Monitor
VQ35 can consume oil above 100k miles with extended intervals.
Pull dipstick before driving.
Est. cost: Monitor / $0 if caught early Source: VQ35 pattern

Electrical

NissanConnect infotainment / navigation

Monitor
NissanConnect with navigation has known slow response and freeze issues on 2018 Z52.
Test all infotainment functions including navigation and backup camera.
Est. cost: $0 update / $1,000–$2,000 head unit Source: Nissan campaigns

Suspension & Steering

Rear cross-traffic and 360-degree camera calibration

Low Risk
Around-View Monitor camera requires calibration after any body work — verify all cameras are clean and focused.
Test backup and all Around-View cameras.
Est. cost: $150–$400 calibration Source: Common camera issue

Body

Panoramic roof seals

Monitor
Moonroof drain tubes clog causing water intrusion at A-pillar.
Check headliner and A-pillar for water stains.
Est. cost: $100–$300 drain cleaning Source: Common complaint

Documentation

CVT service proof + recall check

High Attention
CVT fluid history is the critical document. Three recalls possible.
Run VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Require CVT service receipts.
Est. cost: Walk away from CVT without documented service Source: NHTSA

NHTSA Recalls (verify completion via VIN)

Multiple
Open recalls — VIN check
Campaigns vary by build date. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and require every open recall closed before purchase.
After you buy: common DIY repair guides
Planning the upkeep this car will need? Our step-by-step guides cover oil changes, brake pads & rotors, battery replacement, transmission fluid, coolant flushes, and spark plugs — each with the tools, parts, torque specs, and common mistakes that matter. Browse all repair guides →

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