2009-2014 Nissan Murano Radiator Support: Damage, Fitment, and Replacement Guide
This guide covers the essential information for diagnosing and replacing the radiator support on a 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, with a special warning for CrossCabriolet owners.
- The radiator support is a critical structural part; damage compromises front-end integrity and safety.
- The support for the standard 4-door Murano (62500-1AA0A) is NOT compatible with the 2-door CrossCabriolet model.
- Failure is almost always caused by collision damage, leading to misaligned panels, hood latch problems, and potential overheating.
- A high-quality, undamaged used OEM part is often superior to a new aftermarket part due to better fitment and alignment.
Symptoms of a Damaged Radiator Support
Since the radiator support is a structural part, failure is almost always the result of a front-end collision or impact. Here are the most common signs of a damaged support:
- Visible Damage: This is the most obvious symptom. Look for cracks, bends, or crumpled sections on the support itself. Even minor impacts from hitting a curb or road debris can cause damage.
- Misaligned Body Panels: If your Murano's hood, fenders, or bumper have uneven gaps, or if the headlights appear crooked, it's a strong indicator that the underlying support structure is bent.
- Hood Latching Issues: A damaged radiator support can shift the position of the hood latch, making the hood difficult to close securely or causing it to be misaligned when shut.
- Engine Overheating: If the support is bent, it can push the radiator out of position, restricting airflow or damaging the radiator itself. This can lead to coolant leaks and the engine running hotter than normal.
- Unusual Noises: A rattling, clunking, or creaking sound from the front of the vehicle, especially when driving over bumps, can indicate that the support is cracked or has broken mounting points, allowing components to shift.
Compatibility Warning: The radiator support for the standard 4-door Nissan Murano (Part No. 62500-1AA0A) will NOT fit the 2-door Murano CrossCabriolet convertible model. These models have different front-end structures. Always verify the part is correct for your specific Murano body style.
Buying a Used Radiator Support
For a structural part like this, a high-quality used OEM support is often a better choice than a new, low-cost aftermarket part. Factory parts are designed for a perfect fit, which is critical for front-end alignment. Here’s what to inspect before buying:
- Check for Any Signs of Repair: Carefully inspect the entire support for evidence of previous work. Look for non-factory welds, body filler, or fresh paint trying to hide a repair. 🎬 Watch: How to spot hidden front-end wreck damage A repaired support may have compromised structural integrity.
- Examine All Mounting Points: All holes, tabs, and brackets where the support bolts to the frame and where other components (radiator, headlights, etc.) attach must be intact, round, and free of cracks or stress marks. Elongated or torn holes are a major red flag.
- Verify Straightness: Lay the support on a flat surface to check for any twisting or warping. Even a slight bend that isn't obvious can cause significant problems with panel alignment during installation.
- Source from a Reputable Supplier: Purchase from a recycled parts dealer who can provide information about the donor vehicle. A support from a vehicle that had a rear or side impact is a much safer bet than one from a front-end collision.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Nissan or the NHTSA for failures of the radiator support itself on the 2009-2014 Murano. Most issues with this part are due to external factors like collisions rather than a manufacturing defect.
However, it's always a good practice to check for any open recalls on your vehicle, as other issues may be present. For example, some 2013-2014 Murano models were recalled for a power steering hose clamp issue (NHTSA Recall No. 17V178000). You can check for recalls using your vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website.
Cost Comparison
The cost of a radiator support can vary significantly based on the source of the part. Labor for this job is intensive as it requires removing the front bumper, headlights, and disconnecting the cooling system.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $515 - $840 |
| New Aftermarket | $165 - $340 |
| Used OEM | $150 - $350 |
| Shop Labor | $400 - $600+ |
Installation Details
Replacing the radiator support on a 2009-2014 Murano is a complex job that requires significant disassembly of the vehicle's front end.
- Difficulty Rating: 4 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
- DIY Feasible: Not recommended for beginners. This job is best for experienced DIY mechanics or professionals.
The process involves removing the front bumper cover, 🎬 See this step-by-step bumper cover removal guide impact bar, headlights, and hood latch. The radiator, A/C condenser, and cooling fans must be unbolted and carefully moved to allow the old support to be removed and the new one installed. In many cases, the A/C system may need to be discharged and recharged, which requires specialized equipment. The support itself is typically bolted or welded to the vehicle's frame rails.
🎬 Watch: How to remove and replace a radiator supportPro Tip: Before fully tightening the new support, loosely attach the fenders, headlights, and hood to check for proper alignment. Making small adjustments at this stage is much easier than after everything is reassembled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive my Murano with a cracked radiator support?
It is not recommended. A damaged radiator support compromises the structural integrity of the front end. It can allow the radiator and cooling fans to shift, potentially causing further damage and overheating. It can also affect headlight aim and hood latch security, which are safety concerns.
Why is a used OEM support often better than a new aftermarket one?
A used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) support was made by Nissan to the exact specifications of your vehicle. This ensures a precise fit for all mounting points and body panels. New aftermarket parts, especially cheaper ones, can have slight variations in dimensions or hole placement, leading to installation problems and poor panel alignment.
Does the radiator support for the 4-door Murano fit the CrossCabriolet?
No, it does not. The 2-door CrossCabriolet has a different front-end structure, and its radiator support is a different part. You must use a support specifically designed for the CrossCabriolet model.
Will replacing the radiator support fix my overheating problem?
Only if the overheating is caused by a radiator that has been damaged or knocked out of position due to a broken support. If the support is damaged, you should inspect the radiator, condenser, and cooling fans for collateral damage. Overheating can have many other causes, such as a bad thermostat, water pump, or coolant leak elsewhere in the system.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 625001AA0A 62500-1AA0A
Material: Steel and/or Plastic composite
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Nissan Murano: