2017 Nissan Murano Sunroof Drain Location

Hello fellow Murano owners! Having trouble with a leaky sunroof in your 2017 Nissan Murano? You're not alone. One of the most common causes of water leaks, especially after a bit of age, is clogged sunroof drains. Finding and clearing those drains can often resolve the issue and save you a trip (and expense) to the mechanic. This guide will help you locate the drain locations and give you some practical tips on clearing them.

Identifying the Problem: Is it Really the Sunroof Drains?

Before we dive into finding the drains, let's make sure that's actually the culprit. Here are some telltale signs of clogged sunroof drains:

• Water stains on your headliner: Especially near the A-pillars (the pillars that hold your windshield) or around the sunroof itself.
• Damp or soaked carpets: Check the front footwells first, as this is where the water tends to collect when the front drains are clogged.
• Musty odor inside the cabin: Lingering dampness can lead to mold and mildew, resulting in that unpleasant musty smell.
• Sloshing sound when driving: This can indicate water accumulating in the rocker panels (the body panels below the doors).

If you're experiencing these symptoms, there's a good chance your sunroof drains are clogged. However, it's always a good idea to rule out other potential causes, such as a damaged sunroof seal or a compromised windshield seal. If you're unsure, a professional inspection is recommended.

Locating the 2017 Nissan Murano Sunroof Drain Locations

The 2017 Nissan Murano, like most vehicles with a sunroof, has four drain tubes – one at each corner of the sunroof assembly. These tubes channel water away from the sunroof and down to the ground. Here's where to find them:

Front Sunroof Drains

The front drains are usually located inside the sunroof frame, in the front corners. You'll likely need to partially open the sunroof (vent it) to access them. Look closely at the corners of the sunroof opening; you should see small openings or holes. These are the entry points for the drain tubes.

Practical Tip: Use a flashlight to get a better view. The openings can be quite small and easily missed.

Rear Sunroof Drains

The rear drains are a bit trickier to locate. They are also located in the corners of the sunroof frame, but they are typically accessed from inside the vehicle, usually behind the rear interior trim panels in the cargo area. This often requires partial disassembly of the trim. Look for the drain tube exiting the body panel typically near the rear wheel wells. Sometimes, you can access the drain exit from underneath the vehicle near the rear wheel wells, depending on the undercarriage trim.

Practical Tip: Before you start pulling apart your interior trim, consider if you're comfortable doing so. If not, this might be a job best left to a professional to avoid damaging the trim pieces.

Clearing the Clogged Sunroof Drains

Once you've located the drains, it's time to clear them. Here are a few methods you can try:

• Compressed Air: This is a popular and often effective method. Use a compressor with a nozzle attachment to gently blow air into the drain opening. Use short bursts of air to avoid dislodging the drain tube from its connection. Start with low pressure and gradually increase it if needed.
• Weed Eater Line or Flexible Wire: A piece of flexible wire or weed eater line can be carefully inserted into the drain opening to dislodge any debris. Be extremely gentle to avoid damaging the drain tube. Rotate the line as you push it in to help break up the blockage.
• Sunroof Drain Cleaning Tool: You can purchase specialized sunroof drain cleaning tools online or at auto parts stores. These tools are designed with flexible shafts and small brushes or hooks to safely and effectively clear the drains.
• Pouring Warm Water: Slowly pour warm (not hot) water into the drain opening. This can help to dissolve some types of debris.

Important Safety Tip: Always wear eye protection when working with compressed air or inserting tools into the drain openings.

Step-by-Step Clearing Guide

1. Locate the drain opening (front or rear) following the instructions above.
2. Prepare your chosen cleaning tool (compressed air, wire, cleaning tool, etc.).
3. Gently insert the tool into the drain opening. If using compressed air, use short bursts. If using a wire or tool, gently push and rotate it.
4. Check for drainage. Pour a small amount of water into the sunroof channel near the drain opening and see if it drains freely. If not, repeat the process.
5. Repeat on all four drain locations. Even if only one drain is clogged, it's a good idea to clear all of them as a preventative measure.
6. Test thoroughly. After clearing the drains, pour a larger amount of water into the sunroof channel to ensure proper drainage. Monitor the footwells and headliner for any signs of leaks.

Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Sunroof Drains Clear

The best way to avoid clogged sunroof drains is to practice preventative maintenance. Here are a few tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the sunroof channel regularly, especially after periods of heavy rain or exposure to debris (leaves, pollen, etc.). Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any visible debris.
• Periodic Flushing: Flush the sunroof drains with water every few months to help prevent build-up.
• Park Strategically: If possible, avoid parking under trees or in areas prone to accumulating debris.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've tried clearing the sunroof drains yourself and are still experiencing leaks, or if you're uncomfortable performing the work yourself, it's time to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs. This could include:

• Professional Drain Cleaning: Mechanics have specialized tools and techniques to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
• Drain Tube Repair or Replacement: If the drain tubes are damaged or disconnected, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
• Sunroof Seal Replacement: If the sunroof seal is damaged, it may need to be replaced to prevent leaks.

Estimated Repair Costs

The cost of repairing a leaky sunroof can vary depending on the cause of the leak and the extent of the damage. Here's a general estimate:

• Sunroof Drain Cleaning: $50 - $150
• Drain Tube Repair: $100 - $300
• Drain Tube Replacement: $200 - $500
• Sunroof Seal Replacement: $300 - $800

Important Note: These are just estimates. The actual cost may vary depending on your location, the mechanic's labor rates, and the specific parts required.

Tools You Might Need

Here's a list of tools that might come in handy when tackling this project:

• Flashlight
• Compressed air with nozzle attachment
• Flexible wire or weed eater line
• Sunroof drain cleaning tool (optional)
• Small bucket or container
• Warm water
• Screwdrivers (various sizes)
• Pliers
• Trim removal tools (optional, but helpful for removing interior trim)
• Eye protection
• Gloves

Hopefully, this guide has helped you locate and clear the sunroof drains on your 2017 Nissan Murano. Remember to take your time, be gentle, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Good luck, and happy motoring!