2013 Nissan Murano Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2013 Nissan Murano: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 Nissan Murano has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 Nissan Murano has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2013 Nissan Murano?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 Nissan Murano, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve error codes that provide specific information about the underlying issue. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also activate the check engine light. Ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine complications. Finally, take a moment to inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any visible damage or corrosion, as faulty wiring can be a significant factor in triggering the check engine light. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the cause of the check engine light, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2013 Nissan Murano?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2013 Nissan Murano, it often indicates a range of potential issues that can be addressed through DIY methods. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if damaged. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to consider the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can significantly affect fuel efficiency and may require replacement. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can lead to more serious performance problems, so it's crucial to inspect this component for any signs of failure. Another common culprit is the mass airflow sensor; if this sensor is malfunctioning, it can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Worn spark plugs or a defective ignition coil can also trigger the check engine light, as they are essential for proper engine operation. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can often identify and resolve the issue, ensuring their Murano runs smoothly and efficiently. However, if the problem persists, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to prevent further damage.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2013 Nissan Murano?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2013 Nissan Murano, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could significantly affect your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Ignoring this light can lead to more severe problems, such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor or catalytic converter, which may result in costly repairs if left unaddressed. Moreover, driving with the check engine light on can diminish fuel economy and engine performance, potentially causing damage to other critical components. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is advisable to use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the issue, allowing you to understand the specific problem and take appropriate action. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's health but also ensures your safety on the road, making it a priority for any responsible car owner.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.