2017 Nissan Murano Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2017 Nissan Murano and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2017 Nissan Murano is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 2017 Nissan Murano is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2017 Nissan Murano?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2017 Nissan Murano, start by locating the leak's origin. Begin by inspecting the area beneath the vehicle for any visible signs of oil, such as drips or puddles. Once you have a general idea of where the leak might be, check the engine oil levels to ensure they are adequate; low levels can indicate a significant leak that requires immediate attention. Next, examine the oil filter and drain plug for any signs of looseness or leakage, as these components are common culprits for oil leaks. Additionally, inspect the gaskets and seals around the engine, as wear or damage in these areas can lead to oil escaping. If the source of the leak remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil; this will allow you to use a UV light to trace the leak more accurately. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose the oil leak and take appropriate action to resolve the issue.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2017 Nissan Murano?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2017 Nissan Murano, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may arise. One of the primary culprits is a degraded or damaged oil pan gasket, which can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks. Additionally, worn-out oil seals, particularly around the valve cover and camshaft, can also contribute to oil leakage. It's important to check the oil drain plug as well; if it is loose or damaged, it can allow oil to escape from the oil pan. Another potential issue is a cracked or damaged oil filter, which can result in significant oil loss. Lastly, overfilling the engine with oil can create excess pressure, causing leaks to develop. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage and ensure optimal vehicle performance. Regular maintenance and inspections can help you catch these problems early, making it easier to perform DIY repairs and keep your Murano running smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2017 Nissan Murano to prevent potential engine damage?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2017 Nissan Murano is of utmost urgency to prevent severe engine damage. Oil plays a vital role in lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to insufficient lubrication, resulting in increased friction and wear on critical parts. This not only diminishes engine performance but can also escalate into overheating, which poses a significant risk of warping engine components or even complete engine failure. Moreover, oil leaks can create fire hazards if the leaking oil contacts hot engine surfaces, further endangering both the vehicle and its occupants. Regularly checking for oil leaks and taking immediate action can help maintain your vehicle's health, ensuring reliability and potentially saving you from costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is essential to address the issue without delay to safeguard your Nissan Murano's engine and overall safety.

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