Nissan Murano first generation (body code Z50) 2006 model year is a crossover that became a real breakthrough for the Japanese brand in the SUV market. The car combined the dynamics of a sedan, the interior space of a minivan and the cross-country ability of an SUV, making it a popular choice among family drivers and outdoor enthusiasts. In 2006, the model received a restyling, which affected both the exterior and technical components, making it even more attractive.
Today Murano Z50 on the secondary market - this is an option for those who are looking for a reliable and comfortable crossover with a time-tested platform. However, like any used car, it has its pitfalls. In this article we will look at technical specifications, typical problems, nuances of operation and we will give recommendations on choosing a copy for purchase. We will pay special attention to the engine VQ35DE, CVT Jatco and electrical equipment - the most vulnerable areas of the model.
Technical characteristics of Nissan Murano 2006
Under the hood Murano Z50 2006, the only gasoline engine was installed - naturally aspirated V6 VQ35DE volume 3.5 liters. This motor, known from models Nissan 350Z And Infiniti G35, developed 245 hp (in some markets - 234 hp) and 330 Nm torque. The power unit was combined exclusively with stepless variator Jatco RE0F06A, which sent power to all four wheels through an all-wheel drive system Attesa E-TS.
Acceleration to 100 km/h takes approx. 8.5 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited at 200 km/h. For a crossover weighing more than 1.8 tons, these figures are more than decent. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 11.5–13 l/100 km, which is typical for cars of this class in the early 2000s. Independent suspension on all wheels (type McPherson front and multi-lever rear) provides good handling, but is not designed for serious off-road use.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | VQ35DE, 3.5 l, V6, 245 hp |
| Gearbox | CVT Jatco RE0F06A |
| Drive | Full (Attesa E-TS) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 8.5 s |
| Max. speed | 200 km/h |
It's important to note that Murano 2006 equipped stabilization system VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), anti-lock brake system (ABS) and distribution of braking forces (EBD). The top trim levels included a leather interior, a sunroof, climate control and an audio system. Bose with 9 speakers. However, even in the basic version the car offered rich equipment for its time.
Weaknesses and typical problems
Despite the reliability of the platform, Nissan Murano Z50 has several “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. The main problems are related to CVT, engine And electronics. Let's take a closer look at them.
- 🔧 CVT Jatco RE0F06A: The main headache for owners. Over time they wear out
cone pulleysAndbelt, which leads to jerking, delays during acceleration and overheating. CVT resource - 150–200 thousand km, but with aggressive driving it can be reduced to 100 thousand km. - 🔥 Engine
VQ35DE: Problems withignition coils(cracks after 100 thousand km), oil leaks throughvalve coverAndcrankshaft rear oil seal. Also found oil consumption (up to 1 liter per 1000 km) due to wearoil scraper rings. - ⚡ Electronics: Frequently fail
ABS sensors,climate control unitAndelectric seats. There are glitches with immobilizer, especially after replacing the battery. - 🛞 Suspension: Wheel bearings and
shock absorbersserve about 80–100 thousand km.Ball jointsAndsilent blocksrequire attention after 120 thousand km.
⚠️ Attention: If during a test drive the variator emits grinding or humming when cold, and acceleration is accompanied jerks - This is a sign of critical wear. Repairs will cost 80–150 thousand rubles, and replacement with a contract unit - in 200–250 thousand rubles.
Another common problem is body corrosion. Particularly vulnerable rapids, wheel arches And bottom. Cars operated in regions with salt on the roads often require welding work after 10 years of service. Before purchasing, be sure to check the condition of the body on a lift or 3D scanner.
- Up to 100,000 km
- 100,000–150,000 km
- 150,000–200,000 km
- More than 200,000 km
- Haven't owned it, but plan to buy it
Maintenance and consumables: what and when to change
Regular maintenance is the key to longevity Murano Z50. The manufacturer recommends undergoing maintenance every 15,000 km, but for Russian conditions it is better to reduce this interval to 10,000 km. Pay special attention to the following nodes:
- 🛢️ Engine oil: Every 7–10 thousand km. Recommended viscosity -
5W-30or5W-40(For example, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 or Idemitsu Zepro 5W-30). Volume - 4.5 l. - ⚙️ Oil in the variator: Every 60,000 km (despite the declared “irreplaceable” resource!). Use only Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (article
KLE52-00004). Volume for complete replacement - 9.5 l. - 🔥 Spark plugs: Every 30–40 thousand km. Original - NGK PLFR5A-11 (article
22401-AL51A). - 🔋 Battery: Service life - 3–5 years. Recommended capacity - 70–80 Ah (For example, Varta Blue Dynamic D47).
It is equally important to monitor the condition coolant (replacement every 60 thousand km, original - Nissan Long Life Coolant), brake pads (the front ones last 30-40 thousand km, the rear ones - 60-80 thousand km) and timing belt (resource is 100 thousand km, but you need to check every 60 thousand km).
Check the oil in the variator for a burning smell | Assess the smoothness of the engine (jerky acceleration is a bad sign) | Make sure there are no leaks under the engine | Diagnose the electronics (especially ABS and climate control) | Study the service history (presence of receipts plus)-->
Comparison with competitors: which is better?
In 2006 Nissan Murano competed with such models as Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge And Hyundai Santa Fe. Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Model | Engine | Box | Consumption (mixed) | Resale price (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Murano Z50 | 3.5 V6, 245 hp | CVT | 12.5 l/100 km | 600–900 thousand rubles. |
| Toyota Highlander XU40 | 3.3 V6, 230 hp | 5 automatic transmission | 13 l/100 km | 800–1.1 million rub. |
| Honda Pilot 1G | 3.5 V6, 250 hp | 5 automatic transmission | 14 l/100 km | 700–1 million rub. |
| Hyundai Santa Fe CM | 3.5 V6, 270 hp | 5 automatic transmission | 13.5 l/100 km | 500–700 thousand rubles. |
Pros Murano before competitors:
- 🚗 CVT ensures smooth acceleration (in contrast to the “kicks” of the automatic transmission in Highlander).
- 💺 More spacious interior compared to Santa Fe (trunk volume - 480 l versus 465 l).
- 🎧 Better sound insulation among classmates.
Cons:
- 💸 Expensive CVT maintenance (compared to automatic transmission Toyota).
- 🛠️ Difficulty of engine repair (The V6 requires more space to service than competitors' inline-fours).
If reliability is important to you, choose Toyota Highlander with automatic transmission. If you want comfort and dynamics - Murano with a variator would be the best choice.
Modifications and configurations
In 2006 Nissan Murano Z50 offered in three main trim levels: S (basic), SL (average) and LE (top). The differences were in equipment:
- 🔑 S: Air conditioning, power accessories, 17-inch wheels, fabric interior, audio system with 6 speakers.
- 🌟 SL: Climate control, leather steering wheel, sunroof, 18-inch wheels, audio system Bose.
- 💎 LE: Full power accessories (seats with memory, heated rear seats), navigation, rear view camera, chrome exterior elements.
There was also a sports version Murano SE with branded wheels, sports suspension and unique interior trim. In Russia, such specimens are extremely rare.
The color scheme included 8 shades, among which the most popular were Brilliant Silver (metallic silver), Titanium (dark gray) and Blazing Copper (copper). The last two are considered collectible and can increase the value of the car on the secondary market.
How to distinguish the 2006 restyled model from the pre-restyled one?
In 2006 Murano received updated front optics (headlights with clear glasses instead of corrugated ones), a new radiator grille with chrome inserts, modified bumpers and taillights. The interior has a different finish for the center console and steering wheel, as well as an updated audio system.
Secondary market prices and selection tips
Cost Nissan Murano Z50 2006 on the Russian secondary market in 2026 varies from 450,000 to 950,000 rubles, depending on mileage, condition and configuration. Let's look at average prices:
- 🚗 100–150 thousand km, good condition: 700–900 thousand rubles.
- 🛠️ 150–200 thousand km, requires minor repairs: 500–700 thousand rubles.
- ⚠️ More than 200 thousand km or after an accident: 400–500 thousand rubles.
Critical point: if the seller claims that “the variator has not been serviced and works like new,” this is a reason to be wary. Most likely, the unit is already worn out and will soon require expensive repairs.
When inspecting, pay attention to:
- Condition oil in the variator (should be light, without a burning smell).
- Job engine at idle (there should be no vibration or friction).
- Integrity body (especially sills and arches).
- Functionality electronics (check all buttons, sensors, climate control).
⚠️ Attention: Buying Murano with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, budget 100–150 thousand rubles for the next repair. Most often it is necessary to change the oil in the variator, spark plugs, shock absorbers and brake discs.
Before buying, check the car through the services Autocode or CarVertical. Pay special attention to the mileage history and accident facts. If the mileage is less than 100 thousand km, but the car is older than 10 years, this is a reason to doubt the seller’s honesty.
Tuning and modernization
Nissan Murano Z50 - not the most popular model for tuning, but some owners still upgrade it. Here are the most common modifications:
- 🔥 Chip tuning: ECU firmware may add 15–20 hp, but increases the load on the variator. Cost - from 20 thousand rubles.
- 🎨 External tuning: Installation of body kits (for example, from Stillen), tinting, LED headlights. Popular replica disks Nismo.
- 🛞 Suspension: Replacing springs and shock absorbers with sports ones (for example, Tein or Koni) to improve handling.
- 🔊 Audio system: Replacing the standard radio with a multimedia system with Android Auto and installation of a subwoofer.
However, it is worth remembering that any changes in the design (especially those related to an increase in power) can negatively affect the service life of the variator and engine. If you are planning to tune Murano, better concentrate on external improvements And comfortwithout affecting the power units.
Owner reviews: pros and cons
Owners' opinions Nissan Murano Z50 are divided, but in most cases they boil down to the following:
Pros:
- ✅ Comfort: Soft suspension, quiet interior, comfortable seats.
- ✅ Dynamics: For a crossover, acceleration is very brisk thanks to the engine
VQ35DE. - ✅ Spacious salon: Capacious trunk and spacious rear seats.
- ✅ Controllability: Good directional stability and predictable behavior on the highway.
Cons:
- ❌ CVT: The main source of problems and expensive repairs.
- ❌ Fuel consumption: In the city it can reach 15–16 l/100 km.
- ❌ Spare parts: Some parts (eg ABS sensors) have to be ordered from abroad.
- ❌ Corrosion: A problem for units operated in aggressive conditions.
Many owners note that when proper maintenance (timely changing the oil in the variator, monitoring the oil level in the engine) the car can last 300,000 km or more. However, those who neglected maintenance were faced with major repairs after 150 thousand km.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the 2006 Nissan Murano
Can you tow a trailer with a 2006 Nissan Murano?
Yes, but with reservations. Maximum trailer weight without brakes - 750 kg, with brakes - 1,500 kg. However, towing heavy trailers puts stress on the CVT, which can cause premature wear. Recommended to use additional variator oil cooling radiator.
What kind of oil should I put in the VQ35DE engine?
The manufacturer recommends oil with approval Nissan 5W-30 (article KE900-90042). Suitable analogues: Mobil 1 5W-30, Idemitsu Zepro 5W-30, Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30. Important: do not use oil with a viscosity higher 5W-40, as this may lead to increased oil consumption.
How often do you need to change the oil in the variator?
Official regulations - every 90,000 km, but for Russian conditions it is better to reduce this interval to 60,000 km. If you drive aggressively or tow a trailer, you should replace them every 40,000 km. Use only original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2.
What to do if the variator starts to twitch?
If jerking occurs during acceleration, you must:
- Check oil level and condition in the variator.
- Diagnose solenoids And valve body.
- Please note speed sensor And accelerator cable.
If the problem persists, you will need disassembling the variator and replacement of worn parts (pulleys, belts). Average repair cost - 80–120 thousand rubles.
How much does the VQ35DE contract engine cost?
Contract engine price VQ35DE with mileage up to 100 thousand km is 120–180 thousand rubles. The new engine will cost 350–400 thousand rubles. When purchasing a contract motor, be sure to check it for compression and lack knocks.