DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2007 Nissan Murano steering problems
moderate 42 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700 · see steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
42
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
1crash
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 42 steering complaints filed for the 2007 Nissan Murano, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 11 model years of Nissan Murano we track for steering problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 42.
Owners have filed 42 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
DIAGNOSIS OF VEHICLE PULL (DRIFT) AND/OR STEERING WHEEL OFF-CENTER This bulletin has been amended. See AMENDMENT HISTORY on the last page. Please discard previous versions of this bulletin.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SERVICE INFORMATION When servicing run flat tires or low profile tires: - Special equipment and procedures are required to avoid damage. - Specifically, Tire Pressure Monitor transmitters (TPMS sensors) can be damaged when improperly dismounting and mounting tires. - TPMS sensors becoming damaged during mounting or dismounting tires are not covered under warranty. - To avoid such damage, ensure that the tire changer being used and the operator of the tire changer is capable of servicing run flat and low profile tires. - Operator?s manuals for such tire changers must be followed. See this bulletin for further detail.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SERVICE INFORMATION - This bulletin is to assist you in responding to customer questions about brake operation, and provides diagnostic and repair information for each item listed, if any should occur. - Most brake incidents fall into the following categories: a. Brake Noise: A squeak, squeal, clunk, or groan that occurs when the brakes are applied or released. b. Brake Judder: A vibration that can be felt in the vehicle, steering wheel or brake pedal when the brakes are applied. c. Pedal Feel: The effort needed to operate the brakes is too high or too low. SERVICE PROCEDURE 1. Verify the condition by road testing the vehicle with the customer. 2. Determine the specific brake incident based
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗If YOU CONFIRM: A vehicle needs to have the brake rotors resurfaced (front or rear). ACTION: Use the ProCut PFM Series on-car brake lathe to perform brake rotor resurfacing and follow the tips listed in this bulletin. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe has been chosen as the approved tool for rotor resurfacing. - The ProCut PFM Series brake lathe can be ordered from TECH-MATE at 1-800-662-2001. - ProCut technical support or service can be obtained by calling 1-800-543-6618. NOTE: Brake rotors may need to be resurfaced during routine brake repair or for brake "judder" incidents. - Brake judder: A brake pedal pulsation and/or steering wheel shimmy when braking that occurs when there is too mu
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The dominant issue is power steering hose leaks. Starting in the 30,000–40,000 mile range, the high-pressure hose develops cracks or fails, spraying fluid underneath and forcing owners to refill weekly. The steering becomes rock-hard to turn, loud squeaking erupts from the pump, and one owner reported needing to restart the vehicle mid-drive to regain steering response. Repair cost runs $500–$550, but Nissan has not recalled the part despite forums full of identical complaints. One owner states Nissan offered a new vehicle at discount rather than fix the defect.
Rear k-subframe corrosion is the second critical failure. The frame rusts severely and splits, especially on the right side near the crossmember. Owners describe fishtailing on braking, violent pulling to one side, rear tires bowing outward, and in one catastrophic case, the entire rear end exploding while driving at highway speed after the AWD light began flashing. Full rear-end replacement is required; one owner could not work or afford repairs.
Steering column and rack failures also occur, with one owner experiencing the steering wheel rotating upside down on the freeway without any collision or curb strike. Dealers blamed user error; the owner disputes this.
Intermittent stalling, rear-end instability, electrical glitches (vehicle restarting on its own, doors not locking, AWD engaging without input), and control-arm wear round out the pattern. Multiple owners note Nissan's refusal to recall or cover repairs just outside warranty.
Same Nissan Murano steering reports on nearby years: 2005 · 2006 · 2009
Failure modes owners describe
Power Steering Hose / High Pressure Line Leaks
The high pressure power steering hose develops leaks, causing power steering fluid to escape. Owners report fluid pooling underneath the vehicle, staining driveways, and requiring frequent top-ups. The leak can leave the steering fluid reservoir nearly or completely empty.
When: 31,000–105,000 miles; one owner reported it after just 2 weeks of owning a used unit; another at 37,000 miles (just outside warranty)
Symptoms owners cite: Power steering fluid visible on driveway/ground under vehicle; Steering becomes difficult to turn, requiring significant force; Loud squeaking or screeching noise from steering pump; Rattling sound while driving; Rattling and wheel shake during cornering; Steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive; Need to refill power steering fluid weekly or multiple times
Repairs/costs cited: $500–$550 to replace high pressure hose; some owners noted repair costs up to $1,700 if steering gear/rack is also damaged; recurring leak after shop diagnosis in at least one case
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Nissan has not issued a recall despite numerous complaints; dealerships initially promised repairs then backed down in some cases; one owner states Nissan offered to sell a new vehicle at dealer cost instead of addressing the defect; Nissan Consumer Affairs told one owner compensation would depend on prior service history
Power Steering Pump Failure / Defect
The power steering pump either fails outright or is defective and cannot maintain pressure. Owners experience loss of steering control or must stop and restart the vehicle to regain steering function.
When: 60,000 miles and others at unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel locks or becomes immobile while driving; Complete loss of steering control or severely restricted steering; Loud noise from pump; Steering wheel becomes very hard to turn (feels like driving an 18-wheeler); Steering control requires restart of vehicle to restore
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement of power steering pump required; repair facility was unable to locate leak in one case despite recurring loss of fluid
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in at least one case; vehicle was not repaired
Rear K-Subframe / Crossmember Corrosion and Structural Failure
The rear k-subframe (also called rear crossmember or K-frame) develops severe rust corrosion and structural cracks, causing the frame to separate or split. This results in loss of rear-end integrity, dangerous handling, and in at least one documented case, catastrophic failure while driving.
When: Vehicle failure occurred after approximately 1 year of ownership; one vehicle at 12 years old; another failure during normal highway driving with no prior warning signs
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle sways or fishtails when brakes are applied; Rear end pulls severely to one side; Rear tires not straight; bowing outward; Vehicle entirely unstable and unsafe to drive; AWD light flashing; Visible rust around sway bar and crossmember; Rear end makes clanking noise; Rear tires tilted inward at top, leaning outward at bottom; Overheating as secondary symptom (vehicle losing power due to frame-related electrical/drivetrain issues)
Repairs/costs cited: Mechanic stated rear k-subframe was completely corroded and unable to be welded—entire rear end replacement required; one vehicle had K-frame split in 2 spots; estimated replacement cost prohibitive for owner (owner self-employed and could not work while vehicle down)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued despite multiple owners reporting identical failures; no manufacturer response documented in narratives
Steering Column / Steering Rack Defect
The steering column, steering rack assembly, or cable reel fails, causing the steering wheel to rotate into an inverted position or lock completely. One owner experienced the steering wheel rotating upside down while driving on the freeway.
When: At undetermined mileage; one event occurred without any prior accident or collision
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel rotates to upside-down position; Steering wheel locks, preventing any turning motion; Loss of steering control while driving at highway speed
Repairs/costs cited: Requires replacement of steering column assembly, steering rack, cable reel, or gear assembly; dealers estimated cost but one owner's insurance paid for 'gear assembly' replacement at independent shop
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer attributed failure to curb strike and refused to honor extended warranty; owner disputes this causation given the low speed of the curb impact
Intermittent Engine Stalling / Loss of Power While Driving
Vehicle stalls or loses power unexpectedly while driving at various speeds, with or without warning, sometimes occurring multiple times or after specific repairs.
When: One instance at 40 mph on highway; another after transmission replacement; one event occurred after power steering hose repair; failures reported repeatedly in some cases
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies suddenly while driving; Vehicle refuses to start after stalling; Check Engine Light illuminates; Vehicle will not exceed 30 mph after stalling event; Vehicle loses power and steering becomes hard to handle; AWD locks in and out during power loss event; Engine shuts off completely in parking lot (one case: turned back on by itself without key)
Codes mentioned: P0340 (Camshaft Position)
Repairs/costs cited: In one case, after alternator replacement and transmission replacement, power steering hose was finally identified as the root cause; owner had to replace alternator, transmission, and high pressure power steering hose; camshaft replaced in another case but problem recurred
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Nissan dealer diagnosed transmission replacement needed but root cause was power steering system; no recall or TSB identified in narratives
Camshaft / Valve Train Failure
Camshaft position sensor or camshaft itself fails, triggering Check Engine Light and loss of power/steering control. In one case, the problem recurred after replacement.
When: At least 60,000 miles; recurrence after first replacement suggests ongoing issue
Symptoms owners cite: Check Engine Light illuminates (diagnostic code P0340 for camshaft position); Loss of power while driving; Steering wheel becomes hard to turn; Engine hesitation on startup; Problem recurs after replacement
Codes mentioned: P0340
Repairs/costs cited: Camshaft replacement performed; problem recurred, requiring second replacement
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented
Electrical System / Ignition Faults
Multiple electrical system malfunctions including doors not locking, trunk not opening, interior lights not functioning, and vehicle starting intermittently based on steering wheel position. In one severe case, the vehicle restarted on its own without keys multiple times, draining the battery.
When: Timing not specified; vehicle pulling to right is separate issue noted alongside electrical problems
Symptoms owners cite: Doors fail to lock properly; Trunk will not open; Interior lights do not turn on; Vehicle will not start when steering wheel is in lower position; Interior lights turn off when steering wheel moved up; Vehicle starts normally when steering wheel moved to upper position; Vehicle turns on by itself without keys in ignition or anyone in vehicle; Battery drained from unexpected engine restart; AWD lock button does not function; AWD engages and disengages on its own while driving
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple owners advised to take vehicle to Nissan dealership for electrical system replacement or repair; no specific costs or repairs documented as completed in narratives
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No factory fix documented; dealers indicate electrical system replacement needed
Lower Control Arm Failure
Lower control arms wear out prematurely or fail, causing vehicle handling issues. At least one owner mentions left front lower ball joint ready to fail.
When: Timing not specified; noted as 'known problem' by owner
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle does not drive well; Handling issues; Left front lower ball joint ready to fall out
Repairs/costs cited: Both right and left control arms replaced; one owner states this is a 'known problem' already recalled on other model-year SUVs but not addressed on 2007 Murano
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Nissan told owner this is a known problem but declined to offer recall or reimbursement
Alternator Failure
Alternator fails without warning, preventing the battery from charging and causing the vehicle to stall during operation.
When: Failure occurred after sustained highway driving; one vehicle had alternator replaced and problem persisted (likely a symptom of other electrical issues)
Symptoms owners cite: Battery goes dead; Vehicle stalls on highway and will not restart; Alternator test confirms it is dead; Battery will not hold charge
Repairs/costs cited: $unknown cost; alternator replacement performed but did not resolve the vehicle's stalling issue—root cause was later identified as power steering system or other electrical defect
Synthesized from 42 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
Power steering line split, spraying oil over engine, drivetrain and accessories. *tr
Had steering trouble with your 2007 Nissan Murano?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2007 Nissan Murano?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 42 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 32 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 55,000 and 90,000 miles, with the median around 74,983. A quarter of owners report trouble before 55,000; a quarter make it past 90,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Nissan/Murano.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.