Used 2003 Nissan Murano Consumer Reviews
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'03 SL AWD 142,000+ mi
timinmn, 08/29/2012
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
31 of 31 people found this review helpful
I have owned this since new, went in to buy an Altima, drove out in the Murano. It has been a joy to drive. It has been a reliable vehicle for over 142,000 miles. The only major problem I've had was the transfer case went out at 138,000 ($3000 to fix, still cheaper than a new car). The one flaw I have found is the fuel filler neck rusting and pitting, causing the Check Engine light to come on, I have sanded it down applied LPS3 rust preventor on it we'll see if that lasts.
Lurching/Acceleration Delay
whynissan1, 07/20/2012
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
40 of 41 people found this review helpful
After taking the vehicle to both the local Nissan dealership and trusted tranny guy - neither could find any problems. Yet when the car is warm and you run into stop & go traffic (I live in So. Cal.) which is a regularity,you will experience the lurch/delay. Luckily no accidents! However, putting it into park and restarting the vehicle seems to "reboot" the problem and it will be okay for a while & then resurface when you least expect it.
2003 Nissan Murano for sale near you
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If You Listen to One Review, Listen to Mine
Michelle, 04/26/2019
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
We have had this car from around 70k and have passed it down from my mom, to my sister, to me. When we first got it, it was good the look is great I will admit and comfort. We travelled 800 to Utah in it with no problems. Until one day heading up a hill in the heat, the AC went out and the car stopped accelerating. Since then, we’ve taken it to shop after shop and have spent thousands trying to solve the endless problems that keep arising. The window motor running out, the AC stopping, overheating, multiple & constant cylindrical misfires, small things that stop working, but the worst is the transmission. It’s unfixable, completely irreversible. After you get to 100K this vehicle is a burden you can’t get rid of. It has left my mom, my sister, and I stranded in the heat more times than I can count. It rattles when you drive, you can’t accelerate regularly, do NOT use the AC, I get 11 miles to the gallon and I can’t leave my hometown without breaking down. Do not get this used car. I am telling you, I am begging you. The amount of wasted money is frustrating and heart breaking. The transmission is shot.
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- Value
Murano, Transmitions are ok dont worry,
chrssll, 03/18/2010
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Hello my name is Chris from Ma, I just purchased my 2003 Murano SL AWD with 63k on it. I love the interior and exterior. I read the reviews about the CVT transmissions with customers having issues with them. I called Nissan today because I had thought i was having trouble with my tranny but they told me most people don't know and aren't used to driving with the CVT thats why they think they are having trouble with them. Nissan recently extended their warranty to 10 years or 120,000 miles on any Nissan with the CVT. You don't have to do any thing to receive this warranty what so ever. ALSO if you have repaired your transmission withing the 120K they will send you in full your money back.
Renault is tarnishing Nissan's reliability
mkh142, 06/02/2013
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
57 of 64 people found this review helpful
These Nissans in many respects are Renaults in disguise. Renault has consistently produced unreliable cars for decades and now that they own Nissan, many of Nissans products are suffering. The Nissan Murano looks nice, and has nice features, but it is a reliability disaster as with every other "Renault". They are not designed to last, but instead designed to be "profitable" to the company. I'd reccomended not buying and going for a more reliable brand.
2003 Murano SE Excellent, Comfortable and Reliable
DANZ, 10/11/2016
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
32 of 37 people found this review helpful
"I bought this vehicle USED and it has turned out to be a very nice vehicle to drive, I commute 210 miles a day to work and this vehicle makes the trip with ease at 70 mph and uses just over a quarter of a tank to make the trip. Handles turns nicely, 2WD version, The Café Latte interior looks great and is very quiet and comfortable inside, but the FM radio gets bad in the mountainous regions. I had to replace the passenger side view mirror, the glass only. I had to take to the dealer because the memory needed to be flashed and I had to replace the three original catalytic converters at 210,000 miles and the Murano now has 236,000 plus miles on it and still going Strong. All in all I like my Nissan Murano very much. "
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CVT Transmission/Transfercase/Gaspump
bgarcia78, 09/09/2013
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
32 of 39 people found this review helpful
I have a 2003 Murano 140,000 miles I have replaced my transfer case three years ago called Nissan for help and got no where with them I had to pay out of pocket $3ooo. Two months after that I have to replace the catalitc converter another big job. Now a month ago I had to replace the gas pump again another big expensive job. But my real problem is my transmission the problem started last summer where after driving the car for about 20 to 30 min and then get into traffic the car starts to hesitate when pressing on the gas I took the car to the dealer w/ no help they told me I had to bring the car when it was happening and this problem doesn't happen all the time. So finally I take it aga
Decent car with bad build quality
umichioe, 10/16/2012
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
16 of 20 people found this review helpful
I owned this car from 2003 (new) to 2012 (traded) It is comfortable and have good performance. But build quality is bad!!!! 40K: CVT failed. Replace underwarranty. 80K: Power seat failure. Replaced under extended warranty 120K: Transfer case failed. $3200 145K: CVT failed: $4300 150K: Aircon failed. Didn't fix. 150K: Catalytic converter failed. Didn't fix. Traded at 150K
Nice Car, BUT...........................
Sonya, 10/25/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car used with only 18,500 miles on it and got a great price and the first year was fantastic.Great gas mileage 20/25, fun 2 drive, roomy then at the anniversary of my purchase coming back from a trip to NC with 45,500 miles on the car the transmission went out.Who would think a car would have transmission issues at 45,000? I would never think of such a thing but it did. Yes it was still under warranty BUT can I trust it to go on trips again? NO! I am a previous owner of a 95 nissan pathfinder that never had an issue and I drove it for 215,000 miles.Thought nissan was a reliable vehicle told all my friends to buy a nissan now I am not sure anymore..Very Disappointed in NISSAN
BEWARE: 2003 Murano Tranny is a Lemon!
Former Murano Owner, 11/10/2010
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought an 03 Murano 62k miles on it. Beautiful, lots of features, pretty good MPG. Unfortunately, within a month or two I experienced the "bunny hop." In stop-and-go traffic, I first noticed the acceleration was sluggish. Then, after each complete stop, it was dangerously unresponsive - creeping along at a couple of mph. Then the engine figured out it was going too slow, it revved up and jumped forward. I could have rear-ended someone. Read other reviews and you will see that I am not alone. THIS IS A DANGEROUS CAR! It broke my heart because I loved my Murano. But I was tired of worrying that my transmission would either blow out or, worse, injure someone.
Best SUV Ever
Qtipp73, 11/08/2002
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
This is a great car and is probably one of the best suvs opn the road and deserves a perfect ten.
Can't drive very well over 65 mph
tauris2000, 04/14/2010
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I am having trouble driving my 2003 Nissan Murano over 65 mph on the highway. It revs really high and then engine sounds like it is going to explode. It seems like it is already in the highest gear possible and it of course won't shift any higher. I am afraid to take it out of town on longer highway trips because of this. I have an extended warranty but don't know what the problem is or if it would be covered. I have taken it to one Nissan Dealer and one Carmax dealer and neither have been able to diagnose a problem. They also aren't allowed to take it out on the highway which seems absurd. Any input would be much appreciated.
TERRIBLE RELIABILITY!! DO NOT PURCHASE MURANOS!!
bobby125, 04/19/2012
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
HEARD ALL OVER OF THE SAME PROBLEMS ONCE I STARTED HAVING ISSUES W/MY MURANO. WOULD NOT RECOMMEND MURANOS!!! Bought used, had engine timing/engine chain problems HAD TO REPLACE WHOLE ENGINE MOTOR!! can cost thousands, mechanics also report problems w/ under hood accessibility on front end due to everything being compacted so poor front end design which takes more time&labor costs for mechanics to fix, also had work done on ball joints, tie rods and rear sway/axle bars TOO MANY MECHANICAL PROBLEMS for a foreign vehicle w/ only 120k miles.
Worst winter car ever.
Fuzzbean, 12/08/2017
updated 06/13/2022
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
I got this car used from my elderly dad, who got good service out of it in Florida and during Michigan summers. He even drove it successfully through several Upper Michigan winters, but only occasional retiree-style use on flat roads in nice weather and -- critically-- he always parked it in a garage. He had the luxury of picking which days he wanted to drive. For seeing several winters and being about 15 years old, I will say it has held up well as far as rusting. Then again it only has about 110,000 miles on it. While my dad was highly pleased with the car, my opinion is entirely different and I only drive it because my better Honda Odyssey got totaled by a teenager who failed to stop at a stop sign. In my opinion this CVT transmission is the worst drive system ever invented for winter driving. Once a wheel breaks traction, the transmission thinks "Wheeee! I'm going downhill!" and instantly shifts into higher and higher gear ratios. When you are going 15 mph and your wheels are going 60 mph, it is very hard to re-establish traction. Even more maddening are the windshield wipers. The passenger side wiper arm is about 3 feet long, and parks into a closed pocket under the rear edge of the hood. Inevitably snow will get into the pocket, and it has no way to escape. Engine heat turns the snow into hard ice. More snow piles on the ice, etc. etc. until the wiper arm slips on its shaft and "parks" way high on the windshield. Then the wipers start to click together. Then they get totally snarled up and you are lucky if nothing serious breaks. Because of this one feature alone, the car requires 3 times as much care as any other car I ever drove in the winter. It is one of the stupidest design features I have ever seen on any car, and could kill somebody driving during a blizzard of heavy wet "packing" snow. Since it is snow gathering below the wiper blade that causes the total system failure, driving slower would actually make it happen sooner. In addition, the wiper arms' location under the hood means you can't stand up the wiper arms/blades for any reason, such as to prevent them freezing to the windshield, or to scrape frost/ice off the windshield, or to change wiper blades. And the windshield defroster is too hot at the bottom and too cold at the top, resulting in a windshield that is externally wet at the bottom (refreezing into hard ice) and internally fogged at the top. If your wipers happen to be working, they smear the wet from the bottom up onto the cold top area, where it freezes and creates an even bigger vision problem. Another bad feature for winter driving, shared with many other cars I know, is that the rear hatch door swings too close over the bumper. So you better not have any crusty snow piled up on your rear bumper. The plastic bubble headlights on this car get covered with ice and snow in winter, and any attempt to scrape them clean with a windshield scraper (especially the brass-edge scrapers I use) will permanently scratch them. This is the first car I ever owned that has no "tow loops" at the front end; a fact I only noticed when I tried to tie a canoe on the roof, but which could make it hard to get a quick tow out of a snowbank. The angle and width of the front roof pillars seem perfectly calculated to block my side vision efficiently when I pull up to 90-degree intersections. The factory CD player ate my CD and sometimes will play it but will never eject it. The heater/air conditioner controls are very un-intuitive; I just press buttons randomly until something happens that approximates what I want. The gas mileage is very poor, about 17 or 18 mpg in mixed driving and maybe 21 on pure highway. I had a 1987 Toyota that got 38 mpg... this is 15 years of technological progress? I hate the anti-lock brakes, the way the pedal vibrates and rumbles is very startling, like suddenly rubbing a metal bar against a rough spinning rock. It also seems like one wheel hits a icy spot and the whole braking system gives up completely... I could stop faster without this system, and more than once have rolled out helplessly into highway traffic. It is one thing to slide on ice, but much more alarming to be ROLLING forward helplessly. Also the transmission offers a degree of engine braking -- which could be a good thing -- except it cuts out suddenly at low speeds and leaves you in free-fall, just as you are closing in on another car's bumper. The door locks on this car are incredibly badly designed... they rotate on the same axis as the door handle, and simply opening the door in a very normal and typical way often allows the heel of your palm to unintentionally rotate the lock into the locked position. I have been locked out of the car to where I had to call a mechanic with fancy tools to get me back in, and my dad was also locked out several times. And how the heck are you supposed to get the radiator cap off? Finally, I HATE the cold-looking brushed stainless steel interior trim. Yech. Edit, June 2022: I wrote this review several years ago, but I just recently remembered another thing about this car to dislike. Once when I was driving on a long trip, with the cruise control set, my wife in the front passenger seat was sleeping and happened to bump the shift lever into neutral. It took me a couple seconds to realize the sound I was hearing was the engine racing at about 10,000 RPM! The cruise control was trying to maintain vehicle speed when the transmission was in neutral! There really ought to be a safety interlock to disconnect the cruise control, and prevent this from happening... it just seems like common sense to me. It could also be made harder to accidentally knock the transmission out of "drive."
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Big Disappointment - Safety Concerns
MVC, 07/06/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
What a lemon! Drivers seat is loose and rocks back and forth from first week. Williams Nissan in Boyertown, PA and Nissan report other customers have same complaint, but they have no fix! CD player makes clicking sound. Turn volume down and listen. Again no fix yet. Brakes squeel when applied in reverse, considered "normal" for this vehicle. Carpet held down with staples and velcro, typical of overall quality. The list goes on. Save yourself a big headache and wait until engineering catches up with design.
beautiful gas guzzler
Jonn B., 06/20/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned the Murano for 8 months and have discovered a few key things. As related to its size, this car does not get any where near the gas mileage it should. It does however pack a good bit of power. The ride is smooth but the driver seat has poor lumbar support and gives me back pain if driving an extended amount of time. The auto. handles very well and has room to store more than it appears. Still, with the price of gas I would recomend that Nissan rethink the fuel efficiency of their engines. You would think it would be possible to get performance and fuel economy wrapped up in one attractive package.
2003 Murano
P Varner, 12/03/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a great car! Fun to drive and great power. I have a family of four and it is perfect. I have all the options of a higher priced car for less!
Best buy ever
LuvMyMurano, 08/15/2009
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I was initially lured by the Murano's design, then fell in love with how it drove. I bought it new in January 2004 and have never regretted it. 170,000 miles later I am still impressed with it's reliability and build. I have only paid for routine maintenance, and continue to enjoy consistent performance. No issues with things falling apart or breaking. Friends comment that it is still "like new". Either I got lucky with a perfect car, or the Murano is just close to perfect.
CVT needs replacement after 5 years
bummed about cvt, 03/18/2008
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
At 60000 the transmission was already having problems. At 70000 miles and 5 years old my transmission needs replacement. While driving for about 10-15 miles, it would have resistance at a stop sign, trying to pull into traffic. I would press the gas pedal and the Murano doesn't want to go, it's scary when I pull into traffic and a car is coming. I love all other features of the Murano, just the CVT stinks. Today my Murano is stuck in the shop and I need $5000-$6000 to replace the transmission.
A JEWEL OF AN SUV
Harry Cartwright, 04/24/2016
updated 05/03/2017
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Make sure a mechanic you trust will inspect this vehicle. Yes, it was 12 years old but something about that SUV I just loved. In the beginning, much work had to be done at the expense of the dealership that sold me a powertrain warranty. It was a great move because after all the work done, the engine went out and guess what? The had to pay out $3,700.00, for a replacement engine. Other than that, I LOVE THIS SUV. Drives great, comfortable, bose stereo. I really hope to have some restorative work done but in a couple years when paid off, the temptation may be to buy something else. Oh, yeah, the 2003 up to, I believe, 2007, have a cabin design that does not feel as confining as the later models (my opinion).
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- Value
Should have kept previous car
Angela, 03/25/2017
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
Cheap leather or pleather, loud, not a smooth ride, parts on inside cheap and falling off. Had several nissan before this and this was the worst decision to purchase this car brand new. I feel cheated in the worst way. Miss my other car!
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No Help From Nissan
johnl, 11/14/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car was a dream until Sept of 05 - since then it has been in and out of every area dealership for the same issue - which every technician and service manager "hears" but no one can fix. Nissan Corp has been absolutely no help - a case number means nothing. Never mind 3 recalls - a gas cap that won't open, a window that rattles, a clock that runs 5 minutes fast - stupid things that just show poor quality - and now they want $650 for an air flow sensor because I didn't have my last oil change done by Nissan? This is my third Nissan and my very last.
Lack luster performace
mehere, 01/15/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Check engine light came on day after purchase has been in and out of the shop three times since.
Traded it in
sdwtchlvr, 02/01/2011
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I owned a 2003 Murano from 4/06-5/10. Here are a few bullet points. The SE ride is very rigid...the suspension is supposed to be sport tuned but it is awfully rough and rigid. Had to replace struts at 70K and when I traded it in, a couple of the motor mounts were shot. The frame on the driver's seat broke, so the window side of the seat sagged down. Did some research and found I was not alone. Nissan wanted to replace the seat at $1500+. No thanks. The HID head light went out. Bought a replacement bulb for $180. That blew right after putting it in. Bought another one, same thing. Turns out it was the transistor housing for the bulb. Headache. Traded it in for a Camry.
Will definitely buy another
Jeff, 03/18/2008
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the second Nissan I've owned. I bought it with 16k miles about four years ago, and it just turned over 92k. I drove it back and forth from NY to VA several times, and it was very comfortable and got decent mileage. No major problems whatsoever. I step on the gas and response is immediate. Great speed-to-speed acceleration, too. The interior could be better, but I'm 6'3" and feel very comfortable inside. I wish it had an auxiliary hookup for audio devices, and the CVT has kind of a dynaflow effect every now and then; a 5-speed automatic or 4-speed with O/D would be better suited for the car. Once I refinance the mortgage, I'm getting a fully loaded '09 Murano LE AWD.
Great replacement for the Maxima
ehylee, 07/01/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Murano because I needed better traction in the snow than my 97 Maxima could give me. So far, the car has been great. Fuel economy is not stellar, not even to EPA specs but the Maxima never made it that high either. I have a few of the usual Nissan rattles here and there, but its a Nissan, not Toyota, so no complaints here. The power port is very poorly placed - in the center console and on the passenger side - they are both inconvenient for charging cell phones. The rear hatch power port does not function unless the ignition is on ACC - another poor design.
Infiniti in disguise
Rond, 04/05/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
From the first drive you wonder how Nissan pulled this off. This is so much like an Infiniti in power and handling that nothing but admiration comes from using this car/suv. It is solid, stylish, fast, precise in its handling. The controls have been well thought-out. There is a lot of room for storage. The seats are firm and comfortable for long drives. The fit and finish are excellent. I think this is a real bargain. What can I say about the design? COOL!
Looks good, but don't buy one
Ren, 12/26/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I guess I got a lemon...Many problems, battery died 2x(covered), back windows rolled down by themselves (2x,luckily nothing stolen), gas door wouldn't open (in costco line), now door locks are "worn"-all three gave out when I took it in for a "free" oil change- coincidence? Nissan will not cover this, because warranty is over. I highly discourage others from purchasing a Nissan.
I Love my Murano
D.Paz, 12/08/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Since the purchase the experience has been wonderful. I've taken it for along ride and my children loved the comfort. Great on gas for a SUV. The vehicle was loaded with everything including a Bose Radio System. And LOVE it!
I love this car!
tom bottom, 03/20/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Reliable, great in bad conditions, and just fun to drive. Bose system with controls on the wheel are a plus. Extra features...with rear folding seats activated from the back are a plus. Retracting rear seats are roomy even with a full cargo load.
sweet ride
mscpool, 04/24/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had the murano for five weeks now and I can't find anything I dislike about the vehicle. It handles like a car not an SUV. I love the headlights and the fact that you can adjust them. Also, I was planning to put another sound system in, but the BOSE system is amazing and with no doubt a keeper.
Great Drive
pageturner, 01/06/2004
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I hadn't bought a new vehicle in 13 years when I purchased my Murano. I drove every midsized and crossover vehicle on the market and none really came close particularly in handling! I really did my homework before this purchase and it has paid off. It is the most vehicle for the money in it's class.
Tranmission Design Defect
jbhog330, 12/31/2007
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just turned over 89750 miles on my Murano. Must to my surprise the transmission has gone bad. Come to find out this is a "typical" problem with this year and the 2004's yet the factory still fails to acknowledge it. The cost to fix, over $5000. Not a small pill to swallow. Nissan owes it to their customers to step up to the plate and rectify the situation. I am joining a class action law suit against Nissan for this defective transmission, specifically pressure sensor unit. This is a SERIOUS potential cause of death due to the way the tranny goes. You could be pulling out into traffic and it will not move for 10-15 seconds. Someone will probably die because Nissan does not want to lose $$
Thrilled with Murano!
muranofan99, 10/24/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We checked every comparable suv including Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Lexus RX330, and Acura MDX. The Murano provides the most value and performance for the money. We get stares and questions about it everywhere we go. Performance has been great and wet-weather handling is outstanding! Can't wait for winter to see if this continues. No complaints with fit/finish and dealership experience at Classic Nissan has been outstanding too. Do yourself a favor and check it out.
Best Urban SUV
Mike, 09/29/2006
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We purchased our silver SL in January 03. The model had only been available since December '02. We've never regretted a minute. It's got power, performance and comfort. Love the Bose sound system. Our hauling capacity is larger and has better access than our daughter's '05 Lexus RX 330. My only complain is that the gas mileage is no where near what they originally claimed (22 city and 28 hwy). Our overall average has been 18 mpg.
GLACIER PEARL MURANO
Nancy Bolin, 08/12/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My check engine light came on after a short time after I purchased my vehicle. I carried it back to dealership to have it checked and to have my oil changed and tires rotated being it had approximately 5500 miles on it. I was told it was my gas cap not being put on correctly and I was surprised that I was charged $72. to check my engine light on this new vehicle. Since that time my light has continued to come on and I carried it back and they said if there wasn't something mechanically wrong with my vehicle, I would have to pay to have it checked again. Needless to say, I wasn't going to pay to have it checked again. My light is still coming on!
Reliable SUV, most bang for the buck!
thesugarrush, 06/02/2005
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the murano because it is on car frames instead of truck, has fulltime AWD with good gas milage and buttery smooth CVT transmission just like the one used in AUDI A4! Driving a roadster before, I am surprise that MURANO can match the vehicle dynamic of a my BMW Z3! Murano has been very reliable (for 2 yrs). Could not justify myself buying RX330 for $10K more. Nissan VQ engine has been proven reliable, do not hesitate. Murano is a vehicle for the most bang for your hard earn money!
3500 mile review
clbisbee, 10/05/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After 3500 miles the Murano is still fun to drive. Great for long trips up 101. Environmental controls are the best, sound system is good and ride is very quiet. Still draws stares from strangers and 9 out of 10 think it looks great.
First non-american car I bought
extonguy2, 08/18/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I went on line got the invoice price & negotiated from there. It was a no hassle sale & the car rides like a dream. Great sound system, lots of room. I'm 6' tall & someone can sit behind me without having their knees around their throats.
Buy This Vehicle
Alan T., 11/03/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Sold our 2001 Mercedes C-320 for this vevicle. It is a decision we have not regretted. All the luxury of the MBZ with Nissan's dependability and lower price. (We also own a trouble-free '01 Xterra). Love the sound system and the vehicle's comfort. Why buy the Infiniti? A wiinner!
Nissan Joke
consumerguy, 01/10/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is overpriced. Corners are skipped everywhere. lift up the rear flap up and what do you find? Carboard! Seats do not lay down flat.
Loving it
Ester, 05/31/2009
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought it 2 months ago after our first kid, and love it. Spacious, quick, and not a minivan.Lots of good features, feels & looks like a luxury vehicle. Great value for the price I paid.
Awful Options Packaging
Smart Money, 01/21/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
There I was all set to plop down hard money for the new Murano SL AWD. The car handled like a smart sedan and had the styling and utility of the very best out there. However, when it came to ordering the only option I wanted (leather seats) I was introduced to an options requirement that ran the charge for the leather seats to over four grand. Porsche doesn't even get away with this much of gouge! I actually had to order a sun roof just to get leather.
DO NOT Waste you're money.
Tabitha, 05/13/2019
updated 11/13/2020
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I would never recommend anyone buy a 2003 Murano. EVER. I bought one used and it was hands down the worst vehicle I ever purchased. The person I bought it from had taken very good care of it , drove it off the lot. All regular maintenance was completed. Had the proof of every reg oil change etc. I had to take out towing on my insurance the car was such a POS. Everytime I went anywhere i had to worry how me and the car were getting home. I wish I were kidding. 8/10 times I was stranded. These aren't big trips. I'm talking a 15-20min drive away from home left me stranded. I hate this car so much , makes me angry just talking about it. It be easier to talk about what I did like rather than discuss what went wrong and broke down every day. I had this POS a week before the fuel pump [non-permissible content removed] out. Transmission crapped out. CO2 censor. Catalytic converter. Just to name a few. (So much more). What I liked?!?! Giving the piece of crap away , I didn't want anyone to pay for an expensive POS like i did. It was so bad I called Nissan. They did nothing about it. Though there were plenty of recalls i found, I somehow never qualified. The lady I bought it from showed proof of regular maintenance at the dealership and didn't mention if there were any major issues. She was probably just happy to get rid of it. Idk . Who knows if she had problems during her time owning it. But I would imagine. A lemon is a lemon. Do not buy. Do your research. Read reviews. They are pretty accurate. I wonder about the good reviews I read. I had a Nissan Altima before this. (Can't recall the year) Best car i had. Sold it with over 300 k miles on it. And it still drove like a champ. Should have kept it, and NEVER bought the Murano. ( I owned this Murano 10 years ago. So I'd say it was still in it's "prime " btw) it's prime was weak. Don't be confused. Don't buy this POS ever. Maybe they perfected over the years..... maybe it got worse. Don't risk it. Buy a Toyota.
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Sad
Her, 01/31/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife insisted on this car, so she bought it. Unfortunately I think we will trade it in. Too many squeaks. I hate design. It looks like raised up P/T Cruiser. Why is it so expansive if you can get a better Acura MDX? Buttons under the console, come on! Already have small scratch on aluminum trim. Engine truck-like vibration, again, not as refined as Lexus/Acura/MB/BMW
Nice Car BUT...
cherryja, 01/29/2008
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overall, this car is a mess. I purchased a Nissan because I thought they were reliable cars. My Murano has been nothing but trouble, I had the car stop on me in the middle of traffic 3 times: 1. alternater 2. transmission (which had to be repaired 3 times) 3. battery. 4. Now I have to pay for a catalytic converter. Nissan did nothing to me make me happy except take my money. Because I drive a great distance to work, I was anticipating a reliable car, instead I got a over priced piece of junk that just looks good on the exterior. I will never buy another Nissan again.
Junk, Junk, 2003 Murano
GENE, 07/12/2020
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Every time I get into the car, I will find something that needs attention...ie, muffler, tail pipe, hub bearings, service engine light comes on. Check filler neck for rust. Tune up, and oxygen sensors all needs replaced.. leaks at rear of engine, Nissan has serviced this car since new... always high dollar items, flush transfer case, leaking valve cover gaskets. hubs have been replace twice... Checking oil is a blast; tube is in directly in head, requiring day time checking, and the dip stick will not line up with the hole, looks like too many holes! changing the cabin filter, look at you tube... this is the only vehicle that requires the complete removal of the glove box,, check it out...I have two Toyotas, one a 2003 Highlander, with 179000 miles, no problems, one is a 2011 Rav4, with 90000 miles, no problems. There is no comparison... buy Toyotas, stay away from Nissan ( this the most recalled car)/
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Murano
Allen Arndt, 01/10/2008
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Our Murano is operated in very harsh enviroment in Minnesota and just keeps running perfectly. Maintenance is easy and i put new brake pads on at 60k miles. The finish is standing uo very well considering tree branch contact. Compared to my friends Lexus it rides better and we the CVT. I will buy one again unless they make changes that detract from its current performance. I almost forgot my wife hit in a parking lot in the left rear and bumper was damaged. I pulled it out by hand and it popped in shape and only minor scratches. I fix that problem in the spring. We feel very good about our murano and I feel its refined enough almost anyone taste.
MURANO- AWESOME and THEN SOME
bipkas, 02/09/2003
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
GREAT EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR DESIGN. Excellent ride, handling, power, comfort, and fuel economy.
If you're thinking of buying one.. DONT!
DONT BUY ONE!!!!!!!, 06/11/2009
2003 Nissan Murano SE AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought a used 2003 Murano trusting there were no problems and less than a month after buying (74K miles)the accelerator would stall for 3-5 seconds and after our research we found the transmission was going out! Even under warranty Murdock Hyundai would NOT work with us in an equal trade or just fixing the transmission! I will never buy again or ever suggest to someone to buy a Murano! They look cool and sporty, but the entire car will break down on you sooner than said. Any bumps you go on etc, it feels like the steering wheel is coming off and that your tires are popping.... It is just overall a HORRIBLE make of a car!!!! DONT BUY ONE.... YOU'LL REGRET IT!!!!