Introduction: Why Correct Oil Volume Is Critical for the VQ35DE

Nissan Murano third generation (body Z51) with motor VQ35DE 3.5 liter capacity is one of the most reliable crossovers in the brand’s lineup, but its durability directly depends on the quality of maintenance. An error in oil volume of even 200–300 ml can lead to oil starvation during sharp turns (due to the design of the pan) or, conversely, to foaming of the oil when overflowing. This manual contains exact data on filling volumes, recommendations for viscosity and unique nuances for the 2015–2021 Murano, which are not taken into account in standard manuals.

Engine VQ35DE known for its “gluttony” for oil, especially after 100–150 thousand kilometers. This is due to the design of the crankcase ventilation system and wear of the oil scraper rings. Therefore, monitoring the oil level is more important here than in most other engines. Next, we’ll look at exactly how much oil is required for a complete change (with and without a filter), what nuances there are when changing in a garage, and why Nissan’s factory recommendations are not always relevant for Russian realities.

Official data: oil volume for Murano 3.5 (Z51)

According to the service manual Nissan (publication SM5E-3V51U0), the total volume of oil in the lubrication system VQ35DE is:

  • 🔧 With oil filter replacement: 5.4 l
  • 🛢️ Without filter replacement: 5.1 l
  • ⚠️ Acceptable range on the probe: from MIN to MAX (difference ~1 l)

However, these figures are valid for “ideal” conditions: horizontal position of the car, oil temperature 20–25°C, original filter 15208-31U0A. In reality, the volume may vary:

Replacement condition Oil volume, l Note
Stock pan, new filter 5.3–5.4 Factory recommendation
Pallet with protection (angle of inclination) 5.1–5.2 The oil does not drain completely
After major renovation 5.5–5.7 Takes into account system flushing
For emergency topping up 0.5–0.8 From MIN to the middle of the dipstick

Important: if you are using a non-original filter (for example, Mann W712/94 or Framm PH7317), its volume may differ by ±100 ml. This is critical for Murano, since the oil pump VQ35DE sensitive to oil volume in the first seconds after starting.

📊 What oil do you use in Murano 3.5?
  • 5W-30 (factory recommendation)
  • 5W-40 (universal)
  • 0W-20 (for cold climates)
  • Other

Oil viscosity: what to choose for VQ35DE in 2026

Factory Nissan recommends for Murano 3.5 oil viscosity 5W-30 according to standard API SN or ILSAC GF-5. However, this parameter requires adjustment depending on:

  • 🌡️ Climate: for regions with frosts below −30°C, viscosity is optimal 0W-20 or 0W-30.
  • 🚗 Mileage: after 150 thousand km it is better to switch to 5W-40 to compensate for wear.
  • ⚙️ Riding style: when driving aggressively or towing a trailer - 10W-40 (in summer).

Among the trusted brands for VQ35DE stand out:

  • 💎 Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30 (original, KE900-90132)
  • 🛡️ Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (for turbocharged ones, but also suitable for naturally aspirated ones)
  • ❄️ Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30 (good frost resistance)
⚠️ Attention: Oils with viscosity 0W-16 or 5W-20 not recommended for Murano 3.5 - they can cause knocking of hydraulic compensators on a hot engine due to insufficient film.
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Before purchasing oil, check its compatibility with the system Variable Valve Timing (VVT) VQ35DE engine. Some energy-saving oils cause delays in the operation of phase shifters.

Step-by-step instructions for changing oil in a garage

To change the oil yourself Nissan Murano 3.5 you will need:

  • 🔧 14 mm wrench (for drain plug)
  • 🛠️ Oil filter puller (76 mm cup type)
  • 📏 Funnel with a long spout (for access through the neck)
  • 🧴 6 liters of oil (with reserve for topping up)

Replacement algorithm:

  1. Warm up the engine to 50–60°C (the oil will become less viscous).
  2. Raise the car on a lift or use a viewing hole.
  3. Remove the crankcase protection (4 x 10 mm bolts).
  4. Place a container with a capacity of at least 6 liters under the drain plug.
  5. Unscrew the plug with a 14 mm wrench and wait until it drains completely (10–15 minutes).
  6. Replace the sealing ring of the plug (11026-01M02).
  7. Install a new filter after lubricating the rubber ring.
  8. Fill in 5.1 liters of oil, then add to the mark MAX on the dipstick.

The drain plug is tightened (torque 35–40 Nm)|

New filter installed (check seal)|

Oil level between MIN and MAX|

No leaks under the car|

The service counter has been reset (via the on-board computer menu) -->

After replacement, run the engine for 3–5 minutes and check:

  • 🔴 Oil pressure lamp on the dashboard (should go out after 1-2 seconds).
  • 💧 Leaks around the filter and plug.
  • 📊 Level on the dipstick (add if necessary).
⚠️ Attention: If after changing the oil quickly turns black (within 500 km), this may indicate clogged oil cooler or problems with the crankcase ventilation system. In this case, diagnostics is required.
What to do if you overfilled the oil?

If the oil level is more than 5 mm above the MAX mark on the dipstick, you must:

1. Pump out the excess through the neck with a syringe with a tube.

2. Check the condition of the seals (overfilling accelerates their wear).

3. Monitor the oil pressure at idle speed (normal: 0.5–1.0 bar).

If the overflow exceeds 0.5 liters, a complete oil change is recommended - foaming will lead to oil starvation.

Common mistakes when changing oil in Murano 3.5

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that reduce their service life. VQ35DE. Here are the most common:

  1. Ignoring the replacement of the sealing ring of the plug. Over time, it hardens and does not seal the connection, which leads to leaks. Cost of a new ring (11026-01M02) - only ~100 rubles.
  2. Using a filter without a check valve. B Murano this leads to dry start engine, as the oil flows from the filter back into the sump.
  3. Incorrect filter tightening torque. Over-tightening deforms the body, and weak tightening leads to leaks. The optimal torque is 18–22 Nm.
  4. Changing the oil on a cold engine. In this case, up to 300 ml of old oil with impurities remains in the pan.

Another typical problem is incomplete oil drain due to the design of the pallet. B Murano 3.5 the pan has a “pocket” in the back, where ~200 ml of waste accumulates. Solution:

  • 🔄 Raise the rear of the car 5–10 cm after draining the main volume.
  • ⏳ Let the oil drain for an additional 5-10 minutes.
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The use of flushing oil for the VQ35DE is not recommended - it can clog the oil passages in the cylinder head. Instead, use a quality oil with detergent additives (such as Liqui Moly MoS2 Leichtlauf 5W-30).

How often to change oil: recommendations for Russian conditions

Official regulations Nissan for Murano 3.5 — oil change every 15,000 km or 12 months. However, for Russia these deadlines require adjustment:

Operating conditions Recommended interval Note
City (traffic jams, short trips) 8,000–10,000 km Frequent cold starts
Country roads (even driving) 12,000–14,000 km Optimal mode for the engine
Extreme conditions (dust, frost below −30°C) 6,000–8,000 km Increased oil wear
After major renovation 5,000 km (first replacement) Running in new parts

To check the condition of the oil, use:

  • 🔬 Express drop test: drop the oil from the dipstick onto the paper. If the stain is dark with a clear outline, the oil is still suitable. Blurry edges and inclusions are a signal for replacement.
  • 📱 Analysis via on-board computer: in the menu Maintenance → Oil Life The remaining oil life is displayed (in %).

If you are using synthetic oil premium class (eg Amsoil Signature Series), the interval can be increased to 12,000–15,000 km, but only with a calm driving style and the absence of extreme temperatures.

Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I mix oils from different brands in VQ35DE?

Mixing oils is allowed same viscosity and standard (For example, 5W-30 API SN) in emergency cases (for example, topping up on the road). However, for a complete change, it is recommended to use oil from the same manufacturer - different additive packages may react, leading to the formation of deposits. After mixing, reduce the replacement interval by 30%.

Why does the pressure light come on after changing the oil?

There are several reasons:

  1. Insufficient oil level (check dipstick).
  2. Faulty oil pump (typical for mileages over 200 thousand km).
  3. Clogged oil filter or oil receiver screen.
  4. Using oil with a higher viscosity 10W-40 in cold weather (it is difficult for the pump to pump thick oil).

If the lamp flashes at idle, but goes out when the speed increases, the problem is worn liners crankshaft

What oil should I fill in a Murano 3.5 with a mileage of 200+ thousand km?

For engines with high mileage it is recommended:

  • 🛢️ Increased viscosity: 5W-40 or 10W-40 (in summer).
  • 🧴 Oils with molybdenum: Liqui Moly MoS2 or Castrol Magnatec to protect worn surfaces.
  • 🔧 Topping up additives: Wynns Oil Stop-Leak to restore the elasticity of the seals.

Avoid oils with high levels of detergent additives (e.g. API SP) - they can wash away deposits that have clogged microcracks in the block.

How much oil does the VQ35DE waste?

Normal oil consumption for VQ35DE:

  • 🆗 Up to 100 thousand km: up to 200 ml per 1,000 km.
  • ⚠️ 100–200 thousand km: up to 500 ml per 1,000 km.
  • ❌ Over 200 thousand km: more than 1 liter per 1,000 km - repairs are required (replacement of oil scraper rings, caps).

If consumption exceeds the norm, check:

  • Condition breather (a clogged breather increases pressure in the crankcase, squeezing oil through the seals).
  • Compression in the cylinders (a spread of more than 1 bar indicates wear of the CPG).
Can Long Life oil be used in Murano 3.5?

Oils Long Life (For example, Mobil 1 Extended Performance) are theoretically suitable for VQ35DE, but with reservations:

  • ✅ They can be used if the replacement interval does not exceed 12,000 km.
  • ❌ Not recommended for engines with mileage over 150 thousand km - they have lower ash content, which accelerates the wear of old parts.
  • ⚠️ In Russian conditions (bad fuel, dust) resource Long Life oils are reduced by 20–30%.