Carrier/rack problems of the 2012 Nissan Murano

While driving approximately 50 mph in good weather and light traffic our closed sun roof spontaneously exploded with intense force. When we got out to look at it, it was clear that it exploded from within as the edges of the hole (about 2 ft x 1. 5 ft) were pushing upward. All of the glass within that area blew out with no damage below it nor were there any remaining glass fragments below it even though what was left of the sunroof was completely full of small shatter lines. We've always maintained our vehicle and have rarely used the sunroof. Our extended warranty carrier refused to pay because it was glass. Our insurance company denied our claim because there was no evidence of an exterior impact. Nissan (corporate) refused to compensate us because they said there was no proof as to how it happened. After looking on the web, it appears that this is a known issue. The experience was very jarring as it sounded like something blew up just above our heads. We thought a plane dropped something from above or someone shot at our car but then realized nothing came into the car. Fortunately, we were not injured, did not veer into another car, and thank god it didn't happen near any pedestrians. We paid to have it fixed, but for all we know, it could happen again at any time.

The car was well maintained at the dealer where purchased new. Over 6 years there have been numerous problems. The 2 most serious and dangerous was the failure of the rack & pinion mechanism. I brought the car in for service and mentioned a noise thinking it is the power steering pump. The service manager said do not drive the car out of the repair shop as it was unsafe. The most recent event was the total failure of the radiator. It literally came apart and could have led to engine seizure. This was discovered as I pulled out of my garage and noticed a pool of coolant. There was no light or hot/cold indicator that the engine was running hot. I was towed to the dealer for another costly repair. There were other problems with the front end; tie rod, motor mount, cv boot, but these are the most serious and very dangerous. I have documentation for all these occurrences. The Murano is a true lemon.

While driving on a paved road, a loud explosion consumed the car. The closed sunroof/closed shade exploded sending shattered glass airborne and on top of the closed shade. This caused a horrible noise as the glass bounced on the shade as I slowly made my way back home and to the dealership! during the return route, you could hear the glass cracking as it broke free and flew off while driving at a slow speed.