NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Nissan Murano Safety Ratings
The 2021 Nissan Murano scores 96 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Exceptional), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 0 recalls, and 15 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Nissan Murano achieved an Exceptional rating in the NHTSA Safety Index, scoring 96 out of 100. This strong performance is supported by its clean recall record and robust crash-test results from NHTSA. The inclusion of a full suite of standard crash-avoidance technologies further enhances its safety profile, making it a noteworthy option for those prioritizing safety in the used market.
The 2021 Nissan Murano SUV AWD received a 5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 96/100, based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 118 SUVs from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Nissan Murano ranks 4 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 96 / 100 (Exceptional) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 15.1% |
| Recalls on file | 0 |
| Owner complaints | 15 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 4 of 118 SUVs tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Nissan Murano?
The 2021 Nissan Murano stands apart from its immediate predecessor in one measurable way: its NHTSA Safety Index climbed 4 points to 96/100 from the 2020 model's 92/100, both within the Exceptional band but with 2021 sitting notably closer to a perfect score. That movement is driven in part by a spotless defect record, which contributed 19.5 out of a possible 20 points, reflecting zero recall campaigns on file for this model year. The crash protection component added 66 of a possible 70 points, anchored by NHTSA's 5-star overall rating and perfect frontal and side scores. The avoidance technology category captured the full 10 out of 10, consistent with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all being standard equipment on this trim configuration. The rollover rating of 4 stars with a 15 percent risk figure is the only area where the vehicle falls short of a clean sweep, a detail worth noting for buyers who prioritize that specific metric. The 15 unverified complaints on file represent a modest volume, though the concentration of 6 allegations around Forward Collision Avoidance is worth monitoring as that system is also a key contributor to the high avoidance-tech score.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Nissan Murano perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Murano AWD SUV achieved 5 out of 5 stars in its overall NHTSA crash test rating, with perfect 5-star scores in both frontal and side impact protection. The vehicle's rollover rating stands at 4 out of 5 stars, with NHTSA data indicating a 15 percent rollover risk and a "No Tip" result in the dynamic tip test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15548
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Nissan Murano have any recalls?
The 2021 Nissan Murano has zero recall campaigns on file with NHTSA. No components have been flagged, and no park-outside or do-not-drive advisory has been issued for this model year. Shoppers should still run a VIN check through NHTSA's database to confirm no new campaigns have opened since the vehicle was manufactured.
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Nissan Murano?
NHTSA has received 15 unverified owner complaints for the 2021 Murano. The most frequently alleged problem area is Forward Collision Avoidance, cited in 6 reports. Other alleged concerns involve Unknown or Other issues (4), Vehicle Speed Control (2), Seat Belts (1), Structure (1), and Engine (1). One alleged crash has been reported. All complaints are unverified consumer allegations.
15 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Nissan Murano?
The 2021 Murano has a clean recall record with NHTSA, showing zero campaigns on file. While this means no outstanding remedies require verification, buyers of any used vehicle should still perform a VIN-specific recall check. This practice ensures awareness of any new campaigns that may have been initiated.
- The 2021 Murano's Safety Index of 96/100 represents a 4-point gain over the 2020 model's 92/100, the highest recorded Index for this generation based on available data.
- Zero recall campaigns are on file with NHTSA for this specific model year, a key factor behind the near-perfect defect record score of 19.5 out of 20 in the Index.
- NHTSA's 5-star frontal and 5-star side crash ratings are the headline protection figures, while the 4-star rollover rating with a 15 percent risk measurement is the single area below a perfect score.
- Six of the 15 unverified NHTSA complaints target the Forward Collision Avoidance system, making that technology worth a hands-on evaluation during any pre-purchase inspection.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Nissan Murano places
The 2021 Nissan Murano qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Nissan Murano safety questions
Was the 2021 Nissan Murano crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Nissan Murano, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 96 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Nissan Murano crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Nissan Murano earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 15.1%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Nissan Murano have?
According to NHTSA recall data, no vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Nissan Murano as of Oct 1, 2026. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the Safety Index. Run your VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm the status is current.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Nissan Murano?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 15 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Nissan Murano. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Murano years
Rivals in SUV (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 6-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 7-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Mazda CX-3 | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2021 Buick Envision | 94/100 | 5 of 5 | 2 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15548), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Nissan Murano 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 4 of 118 in the SUV class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.