2016 Nissan Murano Safety Report

The 2016 Nissan Murano presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable number of complaints and several critical recalls. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an overall 4-star safety rating, including 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover. This indicates good occupant protection in tested collision scenarios. However, the vehicle has accumulated 105 total complaints, with 3 crashes, 1 fire, and 3 injuries reported, suggesting real-world safety concerns beyond controlled tests. A significant concern is the recall history, with 5 recalls issued. Four of these recalls are related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP' system, specifically addressing brake fluid leaks that could lead to electrical shorts and an increased risk of fire, or insufficient brake fluid pressure lengthening stopping distances. The fifth recall pertains to 'AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION,' which could prevent proper passenger frontal airbag deployment, increasing injury risk. These recalls directly address critical safety systems and highlight potential manufacturing defects. Complaint patterns reveal several recurring issues. 'AIR BAGS' is the top complaint component with 11 reports, aligning with the recall concerning occupant classification sensors and actual reports of airbags failing to deploy in crashes. 'POWER TRAIN' (8 complaints) and 'ENGINE' (4 complaints) are also frequently cited, with many complaints detailing sudden loss of motive power, stalling, and transmission failures (specifically CVT issues), which pose significant risks, especially at highway speeds. The 'SERVICE BRAKES' component also has 9 complaints, reinforcing the concerns raised by the multiple brake-related recalls. While crash test ratings are good, the high number of complaints and critical recalls, particularly those related to braking, airbags, and sudden power loss, suggest that potential buyers should exercise caution and ensure all recall remedies have been performed.

Our recommendation: Given the critical recalls concerning brakes and airbags, and numerous complaints about power train issues and sudden loss of power, ensure all recalls have been addressed and thoroughly inspect the vehicle's transmission and braking system before purchase.