2021 NISSAN Murano
Recalls, Specs & Safety Report
The 2021 Nissan Murano stands out with an impressive safety record, boasting zero recalls. While it has reported some electrical complaints and technical service bulletins, the lack of recalls significantly highlights its manufacturing quality and reliability.
Why This Matters
In the competitive midsize SUV class, a clean recall record is a rare and commendable achievement. This suggests that Nissan has upheld high standards in engineering and manufacturing, particularly for the Murano, which is often lauded for its combination of comfort and technology. For families and daily commuters alike, the absence of recalls plays a pivotal role in long-term ownership satisfaction.
Expert Analysis
- Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
- Primary Risk Area:Warning
- Vs Brand: Better than avg (1.3)Summary: Historically, the Nissan Murano has maintained a solid reputation for safety, with its recent models reflecting this trend positively. Compared to segment expectations, its reliability profile is markedly better, positioning it as a trustworthy option for consumers focused on both performance and safety.
Safety & Reliability Score
Score Breakdown
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2021 NISSAN Murano
Safety History Timeline
Consumer Complaint Analysis
Most Reported Issue
Complaint Trend
Safety Incidents
Complaint Severity Distribution
Breakdown of 13 consumer complaints by severity level.
Mileage Failure Analysis
The peak failure range of 20k-40k miles indicates that some electrical issues may arise relatively early in ownership. Owners should remain vigilant during this phase to ensure all systems function properly and address any warnings promptly to maintain optimal performance.
🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Risk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
Electrical Systems
Issue: Potential failures with Intelligent Cruise Control and related warning lights due to sensor obstructions.
Regularly check sensor cleanliness to prevent false alerts or system failures.
Inquire about any documented issues with electrical systems during test drives.
No Recalls Found
Zero Defect Certification
2021 NISSAN Murano
Exceptional News! As of February 2026, the 2021 NISSAN Murano has recorded 0 safety recalls.
Compared to other 2021 models which average multiple safety campaigns, this vehicle's clean sheet is a testament to its engineering integrity.
🛡️ Proactive Safety Maintenance Guide
Even with a perfect recall record, regular maintenance safeguards your vehicle's reliability. Our experts recommend monitoring these systems:
No active investigations for this vehicle.
Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Murano.
Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis
The driver side rear seat belt buckle does not engage, the red button on buckle does not pop up
I’m not sure what this problem may be but I was at the traffic light with my foot on the brake and the car just accelerated by itself which was very frightening to my and my grandkids I had to pump the brakes twice before it almost ran into the car in front of me. So the engine rises also when this happens
The crash sensor light keeps engaging while driving, even when the vehicle is parked or idle. There is nothing in site to indicate a crash. Vehicle was taken to dealer on 5 or more occasions and finally it was replaced in December 2024 after Nissan Corp. got involved. The vehicle engaged the brakes while driving on the highway when NOTHING was present to indicate danger. This was mentioned to Nissan and the dealer (AutoNation) on my last visit in January 25 and the dealer stated they could not reproduce the issue, although the problem still exist, I was told by the dealer that it's normal. Nissan Corp mentioned a senior mechanic will investigate, but was never sent to dealer. Instead, I emailed video of it happening to customer affairs at Nissan. The senior mechanic (Nissan Corp) and the mechanic at the dealer provided reasons like a piece of lint could be on the lenses (not while driving 55mph), could be sunlight blocking the sensor (what about at night), or the lenses could be dirty (maybe but not really). This seem to be a danger when driving and all of a sudden your brakes are engaged automatically while driving and the only reason given was possibly lint. The only recourse from the dealer was my option was to return vehicle (lemon law) and purchase another one. I'm retired and not in the position to start all over in acquiring a note. This vehicle was still under warranty (with less 25K miles) when this was first reported, why are customers responsible for any fees? I am afraid to drive most occasions and would like to know if anyone else has reported this (also asked Nissan - sure they're not going to be truthful)? Will someone please investigate this matter and let me know my options? Have videos showing crash sensor engaging but the files are too large to upload. Thanks!
On Jan 15, 2025, my vehicle exhibited an unintended sudden acceleration event while applying the brakes to slow the vehicle. Shortly after applying the brakes, the vehicle's engine revved very high and the car launched forward despite my foot on the brake and then struck another vehicle in front of me. The automatic emergency braking did not trigger. The air bags did deploy. No significant injuries, but both cars were damaged, my Murano likely totaled. I am confident that I did not accidentally hit the gas pedal.
The component of the vehicle is the passenger headlight. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time.I was unable to see at night clearly with the use of only one headlight because the other headlight went out. At the time that the headlight went out I was on a 2 Lane Rd. with no street lights and it became very dark and difficult to see.The defect has been confirmed at a Nissan dealership on September 23. The dealership found separation of the assembly, causing the condensation in the passenger side headlight causing it not to work. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other entity, besides the certified Nissan dealership. The system warning message appeared only when the headlight went out.
The contact owns a 2021 Nissan Murano. The contact stated while her mother was driving at 6 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to come to a complete stop, after which the vehicle lost power. As a result, the Forward Collision Avoidance warning light, and the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking systems failed to activate, and the driver lightly tapped the vehicle in front. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 35,000.
Back up system sensors alarms when nothing is behind vehicle and sometimes does not alarm when there is something behind me. I bought the car 5/31/2023 the problem started right away, I took my car to the dealership for repair on 6/7/2023 for the first time. They were unable to reproduce the issue, I have had my car at the dealership 6 times since, they have seen and videoed my car giving false warning lights and sounds like something is behind me even though nothing is behind me. They have replaced all 4 backup sensors and most recently the left blindside warning sensor and tail light, I still have the same issue. I have asked for a loaner car because I am worried I am going to back into something, they tell me this is not a safety issue and I am to drive the car even though there is a problem with the backup system. They have a specialist scheduled for 10/10/2023 to see if he can figure out what is wrong. Both the dealership and Nissan consumer affairs tell me the car is safe to drive with a malfunctioning camera system.
The cruise will not maintain the set speed when going downhill. This does not have to be a steep hill. Any downward slope with cause the speed to increase until I hit the brake pedal. It has gotten up to 13 miles over before I hit the brake. I owned a 2018 Murano and it did not do this. I've also owned many other vehicles with cruise control and none have done this. I have taken this to Town Center Nissan more than once for this problem and they say that it they can't duplicate it and then the answer changed to it is normal when going downhill.
The problem we have with the Murano is the cruise control. We live in a mountainous area and the issue we have is the cruise control will not maintain our speed when going downhill. It wasn't until we had bought the car that we learned that because the vehicle is equipped with a CV transmission that the car cannot downshift to slow the car down in a dissent. The first time we hit a downward slope heading home from the dealer the car increased in speed twenty miles over the set speed. The only waring we got was the cruise control set speed display was flashing. Had we known that the Murano was not able to maintain a reasonable speed going downhill we never would have bought it. We raised our concerns about the cruise control issue to the dealer we purchased it from, and they told us that the manual states that the cruise control won't maintain a reasonable speed in a downhill. Never explaining why it doesn't. We finally got the answer from another Nissan dealer. He explained that a CV transmission cannot downshift to slow a vehcle down because it doesn't have gears. I have spoken to our people that own vehicles with a CV transmission and that their cars can hold a set speed by throttling down and apply brakes. We spoke to a Nissan representative and she had us take the car to another dealership for a diagnostic test, which we did, but never got a response from them. Again, let me state that we would have never bought a car that cannot maintain a reasonable speed going downhill had we known.
Car stalls and dashboard goes blank or backup warning lights or other warning lights randomly coming on. I don't feel safe. My car could stall and cause accidents. 2 dealership inspected and said they could not find anything wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about the safety features of the 2021 Nissan Murano?
The 2021 Nissan Murano comes equipped with advanced safety technologies such as Intelligent Cruise Control and Automatic Emergency Braking. Its lack of recalls reflects strong manufacturing practices aimed at ensuring these systems operate reliably under various driving conditions.
How reliable is the 2021 Nissan Murano compared to other SUVs?
'Reliability-wise, the 2021 Nissan Murano excels within its segment by maintaining zero recalls since its release. This positions it as a standout choice for those seeking a dependable midsize SUV without significant concerns over potential defects or recurring issues.'
Year-over-Year Context
Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows improving reliability trends, largely due to manufacturing refinements addressing 2020 issues. Recall frequency decreased 100%.
What This Means for You
Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
If You Own This Vehicle
- Your 2021 Murano currently shows zero open recalls. Maintain this status with scheduled preventive maintenance.
- Proactive tip: Enroll in NISSAN's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
If You're Buying Used
- Request the VIN from the seller and verify the 'Clean' recall status via NHTSA.
- This specific Murano year is noted for its strong reliability foundations.
This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.