Oil volume and complete replacement instructions for the Nissan Murano 3 (VQ35DE) engine

Crossover owners Nissan Murano third generation (Z51 body) are often faced with the need for scheduled maintenance, where the key point is proper lubrication of the power unit. Engine VQ35DE 3.5 liter capacity is known for its reliability, but it is extremely sensitive to the quality and quantity of lubricants. Incorrect choice of volume or ignoring replacement regulations can lead to serious consequences for the piston group and gas distribution system.

Many car owners mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply add oil to the maximum, without knowing the exact specifications. In fact, the lubrication system VQ35DE has its own characteristics, including the volume of the oil pan and the need to replace the filter with each fluid change. In this article, we will analyze in detail exactly what volume of oil is required for a 3.5 liter engine, what nuances there are when refueling, and how to correctly carry out the procedure yourself to avoid costly repairs.

Technical characteristics of the VQ35DE lubrication system

Power unit Nissan VQ35DE, installed on Nissan Murano third generation, is a complex mechanism with phase shifters (CVTC) on both shafts. This feature dictates strict requirements for the viscosity and fluidity of the oil, especially during cold starts. The engine requires the use of low-viscosity fluids to quickly reach system pressure and lubricate the timing chain tensioners.

The standard oil volume in a 3.5 liter engine is 4.9 liters when replaced with a filter. If only topping up is done without dismantling the filter, the figure drops to 4.5–4.7 liters, depending on the degree of emptying of the pan. It is important to consider that the exact volume depends on the angle of the vehicle and the engine temperature at the time of draining the old lubricant.

The manufacturer strongly recommends using oils approved API SN or higher, as well as specification ILSAC GF-5. The use of unsuitable lubricants can lead to contamination of the oil passages, which is critical for the operation of the phase shifters. When purchasing canisters, you should focus on sets of 5 liters, since 4 liters will not be enough even with a reserve.

• 🔧 Full system volume: 4.9 liters (with filter replacement).
• 🛢️ Recommended viscosity: 5W-30 for most climates.
• ⚙️ Manufacturer approval: API SP or SN, ILSAC GF-6 or GF-5.
• 🌡️ Temperature: The oil must maintain its properties from -30°C to +40°C.

Choosing the right oil and change intervals

Correct selection of lubricant is the key to long engine life VQ35DE. There are many brands on the market, but the key is to meet the specifications in the service book. For crossover Nissan Murano The optimal choice is semi-synthetic or 5W-30 synthetic, which provides a balance between protection at high temperatures and ease of cranking in winter.

Oil change intervals depend on operating conditions. In ideal urban conditions with low mileage, you can change the oil once every 10,000 km, but in the conditions of our country, with traffic jams, dust and temperature changes, it is recommended to reduce this interval to 7,000–8,000 km. Frequent replacement allows you to remove wear products and acid compounds formed during fuel combustion.

Many owners are interested in whether it is possible to use oil with a viscosity of 0W-20. Theoretically, the engine will allow such a replacement, especially if the mileage is low, but for an old engine with wear and tear, it is better to stick to 5W-30. Thicker lubricant adheres better to friction surfaces and creates the necessary layer of protection in gaps that increase over time.

⚠️ Attention: Using oil with a viscosity of 0W-20 for a mileage of over 150,000 km can lead to increased oil consumption due to waste and a decrease in pressure in the lubrication system, which is dangerous for the operation of phase shifters.

• 🛢️ Original Nissan oil: Genuine Motor Oil 5W-30 (catalog number 999MP-5W30P).
• 🔝 Popular analogues: Motul 8100 X-clean, Shell Helix Ultra, Liqui Moly Synthoil High Tech.
• ⏱️ Recommended interval: 7,000–8,000 km or once a year.

Step-by-step instructions for changing the oil yourself

Engine oil change procedure Nissan Murano does not require complex equipment, but requires accuracy and consistency of actions. You should start by warming up the engine: the oil should become liquid so that the maximum amount of old lubricant flows out along with the sediment. The engine must be warmed up to operating temperature, but not hot, to avoid burns when unscrewing the drain plug.

After warming up, the car must be placed on a flat surface or a lift. Place a container with a volume of at least 5 liters under the drain plug. Unscrew the plug carefully so as not to damage the threads and allow the oil to drain completely. At this point, you can also remove the oil filter if it is located at the bottom, or use a special unscrewing attachment.

Before tightening the drain plug, be sure to replace the copper washer with a new one to prevent leakage. Tighten the plug with the force recommended by the manufacturer, usually about 30–40 Nm, but it is better to focus on the “feel” and not overtighten, so as not to strip the threads in the pan. After installing the filter and plug, fill in new oil through the neck.

You need to fill the oil in parts, monitoring the level through the dipstick. First fill in 4.5 liters, wait a minute, let the oil drain into the pan, then check the level. If the level is below halfway, add more. Do not try to fill 4.9 liters at once, as this can lead to overfilling, which is no less harmful to the engine than underfilling.

• 🔧 Tools: wrench 14 or 17 (for the plug), wrench for the filter, funnel, rags.
• 🛢️ Consumables: 5 liters of oil, new filter, new copper washer.
• ⏱️ Opening hours: 40–60 minutes if there is a pit or lift.
• 🌡️ Oil temperature: Do not drain hot oil (above 80°C), let it cool for 5-10 minutes.

⚠️ Attention: Never start the engine immediately after adding oil. Wait at least 5–10 minutes for the oil to saturate the filter and fill the oil channels, otherwise you may experience oil starvation upon first start-up.

Checking the level and monitoring the condition of the lubricant

After changing the oil and starting the engine, you need to let it idle for 2-3 minutes. Then turn off the engine and wait another 5-10 minutes for the oil to completely drain into the pan. Only after this can an accurate level check be made. This is a critical step as incorrect data can lead to overfilling or underfilling.

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it with a clean rag, insert it back until it stops and remove it again. The oil level should be between the marks LOW And FULL (or between two points on the dipstick). The optimal level is considered to be slightly above the middle, but not reaching the top mark. If the level is above the maximum, it is necessary to drain the excess through the drain plug or with a syringe through the neck.

Inspect the condition of the oil not only by level, but also by color and consistency. Fresh oil has a golden or amber hue. If you notice black foam, a milky color (a sign of antifreeze), or metal particles, this is a sign of serious problems. In this case, immediate engine diagnostics is required.

What to do if the oil level is above the maximum?

If the level is above the FULL mark, the excess must be drained. Overfilling the oil causes the lubricant to foam in the crankcase, which reduces the pressure in the system and can damage the crankshaft seals. Use a medical syringe or suction pump through the neck to remove excess volume.

Regularly checking the oil level between changes is a guarantee of safety. Check the dipstick every 1000–1500 km. Engine VQ35DE may consume a small amount of oil (up to 0.5 liters per 10,000 km), but if consumption exceeds this figure, it is worth checking the seals and valve system.

Design features and possible problems

Engine VQ35DE has a number of design features that affect the maintenance process. One of the main problems is access to the oil filter on some body versions. On Nissan Murano The third generation filter can be located in a hard-to-reach place, which requires removing the engine protection and using special extension cords.

Another important nuance is the condition of the timing chain hydraulic tensioners. These elements operate on oil pressure. If the oil is changed rarely or a low-quality lubricant is used, the tensioners may stop working, which will lead to the chain and phase shifters jumping. This is often accompanied by a metallic knocking sound when cold.

It is also worth paying attention to the crankcase ventilation (PCV) system. A clogged ventilation valve can lead to increased pressure in the crankcase, which causes the seals to squeeze out and oil leaks. Regular checking and cleaning of this system will help to avoid such problems and maintain normal oil volume.

When changing the oil, do not forget to check and, if necessary, replace the oil filler cap, as there is a magnet inside it that collects metal shavings. If the magnet is clogged with dirt, its effectiveness is reduced and metal particles can get back into the lubrication system.

Parameter	Meaning	Comment
System volume (with filter)	4.9 l	It is recommended to fill 4.8 l, then check the level
System volume (without filter)	4.5 l	Temporary refueling when changing only the oil
Filter type	Element in housing	Replaceable with cartridge or housing
Plug tightening torque	30–40 Nm	Use a torque wrench

Frequently asked questions and answers

What exact volume of oil should be poured into a 3.5 liter engine?

For engine VQ35DE a complete oil and oil filter change requires 4.9 liters. It is recommended to purchase a 5-liter canister and fill it with approximately 4.8 liters, then check the level with a dipstick and top up to normal.

Is it possible to mix different brands of oil?

Mixing oils from different manufacturers is not recommended, as the additive packages may react and form sediment. If urgent topping up is required, use oil of the same viscosity and tolerances, but carry out a complete replacement as soon as possible.

How often should the oil filter be changed?

Official regulations Nissan requires replacing the oil filter at every oil change. Ignoring this rule leads to contamination of fresh oil with wear products retained in the old filter.

What to do if after changing the oil level drops quickly?

If the level drops faster than 0.5 liters per 1000 km, it is necessary to check the engine for leaks (gaskets, seals) or increased waste consumption (piston rings, caps). Also check the condition of the PCV valve.

Do I need to warm up the engine before checking the level?

Yes, the engine should be warmed up to operating temperature and then turned off for 5-10 minutes. This allows the oil to drain into the pan, but maintain fluidity for accurate level measurement with a dipstick.

Following oil change rules and using the correct amount of lubricant will ensure long and reliable operation of your Nissan Murano. Remember that prevention and attention to detail are always cheaper than major engine overhauls. The exact oil volume of 4.9 liters is a critical parameter on which the operation of the entire lubrication system depends. Regularly check the level and condition of the lubricant, and your crossover will delight you with comfort and dynamics for many years.