AWD High Temp Stop Vehicle Murano: Diagnosing The Engine Issues

Owners of Nissan Murano SUVs equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) have been experiencing an alarming issue lately. It is that, vehicles abruptly shutting down due to high engine temperatures while driving. This dangerous problem has prompted a wave of complaints and service requests as Murano drivers try to diagnose the cause of the overheating issue.

The high engine heat triggers the vehicle’s fail-safe mode to activate and shut off the powertrain before any catastrophic damage occurs. However, Nissan has yet to identify an exact cause for the overheating problems.

But don’t worry; in this article, you will find out the common reasons for these issues along with some troubleshooting steps. Therefore, you can take your vehicle back to the road without having any second thoughts.

Possible Reasons For This Issue

Clogged AWD fluid lines

• Debris buildup inside hydraulic lines that circulate AWD transfer case fluid can restrict the fluid flow by leading to fluid overheating. 

• Lack of lubrication and cooling causes components to fail and may also results in overheating.

Failed thermostat

• If the thermostat is out of working condition, it prevents coolant from flowing properly through the radiator. 

• This can lead to extreme engine overheating, which then heat-soaks the AWD system since they share the cooling systems.

Cooling system leaks

• Any leaks in coolant hoses, radiators, water pumps, etc. Will lower the total coolant level over time. 

• Low coolant volume reduces heat dissipation and cooling capacity by allowing components like the engine, transmission, and AWD system to overheat.

Weakened water pump

• Impeller blades that are out of shape due to wear and tear reduces the water pump’s effectiveness at circulating engine coolant. 

• The slower flow rate reduces critical cooling to the engine and AWD components, possibly resulting in overheating issues.

Radiator blockage

• Debris accumulation over time (leaves, dust, etc.) can block airflow through the radiator by lowering its ability to dissipate heat. 

• This also contributes to the cooling system overheating.

Failed cooling fans

• Malfunctioning electric cooling fans prevent airflow across vital heat exchangers like the radiator at low speeds. 

• Lack of supplemental cooling causes temperatures to increase in this situation.

Excessive towing and hauling

• Towing heavy loads or driving in muddy or hard conditions increases the load capacity on the AWD system, transmission, and engine for prolonged periods. 

• This accelerates overheating, especially if other cooling issues are already on board.

Solutions For Troubleshooting The Nissan Murano’s AWD Overheating Issues

• Check the transfer case, rear differential, and hydraulic lines for leaks, blockages, and low fluid levels. 

• Install a new, adequately calibrated thermostat that opens at the correct temperature to maintain a proper coolant flow to the radiator and also to the engine.

• Use a pressure tester to locate any external coolant leaks. Inspect the water pump, hoses, radiator, and reservoir tanks for cracks or loose connections.

• Test the fan operation at various speeds and at different engine temps. Replace any non-functioning electric cooling fans and fan control modules. 

• Use compressed air or spray cleaner to blow out debris that are blocking the external radiator fins.

• Stay within the vehicle’s recommended towing capacity or payload limit. Make sure to give the powertrain periodic breaks to cool down after hauling heavy loads.

FAQs About (AWD High Temp Stop Vehicle Murano)

Q: Is it safe to keep driving my Murano if I see the temperature gauge getting high?

A: No, you should immediately pull over and shut off the engine to prevent potential seized components or engine breakdowns. 

Q: Will the overheating cause damage even if I shut off the SUV in time?

A: Possibly. Extreme heat can still warp and damage internal components. Inspection and repairs may be ideal before taking your vehicle for a drive.

Q: Is this a recall issue that Nissan will fix for free?

A: Not yet, but Nissan is likely investigating. Check with your dealer for any extended warranty coverage related to overheating.