2007 Murano convert to FWD

[caparem]

Hi all, my first time here. My TC was replaced under warranty at 62K (goodwill) and now has 71K. After a bit of research on the subject I see it is a common problem. I loved my Murano and planned on keeping it at least 3 more years but now I am sacred of the surprises it can reserve...especially thinking it can blow another TC. The dealer confidently told me the NEW TC was a NEW IMPROVED MODEL...I am not convinced since they can put any garbage TC and if it blows later it will not be covered. My question for you is: if it blows another TC is it possible to simply convert to a FWD by removing the TC and associated components. There is on the market a FWD version of the Murano so why not just retro to that configuration and let the Murano finish its life as a FWD. I personally would not pay 3-4K for a new TC on an older vehicle.

[kerrton]

This is much more complex than you realize. The ECU and TCU "computer" are programmed for AWD, and receive input from various sensors including brakes, wheel slip, etc. and it uses this input to decide when to engage the rear wheels through an electronic clutch pack, how to split the torque and when to disengage. These calculations happen continuously as you drive, if any sensors fail or give erroneous readings your car will throw a MIL/check engine code and could go into limp mode in certain scenarios. Also, your CVT transmission has a drive shaft coming out the back of it to power the rear wheels, the CVT transmission is designed for AWD only, the FWD transmission is a different part.

Modern cars are completely dependant on computers, removing an unwanted component like the transfer case would confuse the computer and immediately cripple your vehicle. It's not impossible, but would require a ton of money, time, research and labor.

[caparem]

Kerrton, thank you very much for your reply...I see you know a lot more about these things than I do. Had this worked out it would have solved a big problem for many people. I am glad to have AWD since we get tons of snow but then again it isn't an absolute must...just a "nice to have" but I'm sure when most are faced with a repair bill of $4k just to keep using the vehicle, they (like me) would dump the AWD and easily content with FWD. Maybe someone can come up with a standard fix procedure and price the job.