2006 Nissan Murano steering problems

The high-pressure hydraulic hose (part 49720-CB60A) on the power steering pump fails, allowing power steering fluid to leak from the system. Owners report rapid fluid loss—sometimes complete drainage within a few days—and leakage visible as stains on driveways or as fluid on the engine/catalytic converter. The failure occurs across a wide mileage range (27,000–76,000+ miles) on 2006 Muranos.

When: 27,000 to 76,000+ miles; multiple narratives note failures at 35,000–65,000 miles; some within weeks of purchase

Symptoms owners cite: High-pitched whine from engine compartment, especially when turning; Steering wheel becomes very difficult or impossible to turn; Power steering fluid reservoir low or empty; Steering becomes sluggish at all speeds; Loud racketing or tapping noise from front of vehicle; Difficulty steering left turns while right turns normal (in one narrative); Loss of power steering while driving at highway speeds

Repairs/costs cited: Replacement hose costs $400–$1,000 (commonly $550–$750). Part 49720-CB60A frequently backordered due to high failure volume; dealers reported 2–3 week to 2-month delays. One owner repaired the hose themselves to avoid shop costs. Parts were in such demand that dealerships stockpiled them and service advisors knew the part number by heart.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Nissan refused warranty coverage or reimbursement beyond the original warranty period, even on vehicles within 344 miles of warranty expiration. Dealers stated they were aware of the widespread failures but no recall was issued. Multiple owners stated Nissan declined assistance or responsibility when contacted.

Steering wheel locks when vehicle is started if the front and rear wheels are not perfectly parallel to each other or if the steering wheel is not in a horizontal position. Owner must exert great force to turn the wheel, or in one case, the ignition key would not turn at all.

When: Upon vehicle startup; at or below 42,000 miles in the one detailed narrative

Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel will not move or requires extreme force to turn upon startup; Ignition key locked and will not turn; Condition clears when wheels are manually aligned to parallel position and steering wheel moved to horizontal

Repairs/costs cited: One narrative mentions the dealer stated a steering lock would need to be purchased to fix the issue. Part of NHTSA Campaign 06V401000 (steering column anti-theft locking device), though one owner was told their VIN was not included in that campaign.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 06V401000 exists for steering column locking anti-theft device on 2006 Murano, but some owners reported their vehicles were excluded from the campaign. One owner purchased a used vehicle and received no recall notification letter.

The rear K-frame or subframe exhibits premature corrosion and structural failure, with complete breaks reported in at least two narratives. Stabilization bar breaks from its mount. This failure causes vehicle instability, fishtailing in wet conditions, and loss of steering control. Tire misalignment and uneven wear result from the damaged subframe.

When: One narrative reports failure after rain/wet driving at 54,000 miles; another describes years of ongoing seat and suspension instability before discovery

Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle fishtails in rain or wet conditions; Loss of vehicle control on roadway; Rear suspension feels like it is 'riding on ice'; Steering feels unsafe and uncontrollable at highway speeds; Visible corrosion and complete breaks in K-frame/subframe structure; Premature and uneven tire wear; Seat instability and oscillation

Repairs/costs cited: One narrative indicates the suspension was repaired at a dealer (cost not stated); another reports the owner did not repair the vehicle. Repairs would involve structural welding or frame replacement, likely expensive.