Nissan Murano Z51 (51 body): everything you need to know before buying

Nissan Murano 51 bodies (internal designation Z51) is the second generation of the popular crossover, which was produced from 2007 to 2014. The car has become a real bestseller on the Russian market thanks to its combination of comfort, cross-country ability and stylish design. However, over the years of operation, the model has revealed both obvious advantages and characteristic “diseases” that are important to know about before purchasing.

In this article we will look at Murano Z51 from all sides: from technical characteristics to repair nuances. You will find out which engines were installed on the model, which gearboxes are considered the most reliable, as well as which hidden problems may arise after 150,000 km. We will pay special attention to comparison with competitors - Toyota Highlander And Honda Pilot of the same generation.

Technical specifications Nissan Murano Z51

Second generation Murano offered with two petrol engines, both of which were combined with a CVT CVT. The basic version was equipped with a 3.5-liter VQ35DE with a power of 265 hp, and the top one - boosted to 280 hp. VQ35HR (since 2011). Both versions had all-wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i with the possibility of blocking the center differential.

Key parameters of transmission and suspension:

• 🔧 Gearbox: CVT Jatco JF011E with manual shift mode (6 virtual gears)
• 🛣️ Suspension: front - MacPherson, rear - multi-link, with pneumatic elements in top trim levels
• 🔄 Razdatka: electronic, with push-button control (Auto/4WD Lock)
• 🛞 Clearance: 180 mm (unloaded), 165 mm (fully loaded)

Among the chassis features, it is worth noting the system Active Ride Control, which automatically adjusted the stiffness of the shock absorbers. However, after 200,000 km, many owners turn it off due to wear of sensors and solenoids. The air suspension on the rear axle in LE trim levels requires maintenance every 100,000 km - ignoring this rule leads to leaks and failure of the compressor.

Parameter	3.5 VQ35DE (2007–2010)	3.5 VQ35HR (2011–2014)
Power, hp	265	280
Torque, Nm	336	350
Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s	8.3	7.8
Max. speed, km/h	210	220
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km	11.5	11.2

Weaknesses and typical malfunctions

Despite the reliable reputation of the series engines VQ, y Murano Z51 There are several “childhood diseases” that appear with age. The main one is overheating of the variator when towing or long-term driving at high speeds. The manufacturer recommends changing the CVT oil every 60,000 km, but in practice it is better to reduce the interval to 40,000 km, especially if the car is operated in urban mode.

Other common problems:

• 🔥 Engine tripping: often caused by wear of the ignition coils (lifespan ~80,000 km) or clogged injectors. On motors VQ35HR additionally check the phase regulators - their jamming leads to an error P0011.
• 💧 Oil leaks: The camshaft seals and the rear crankshaft seal begin to “sweat” after 150,000 km. Engines that are often operated in cold conditions are especially vulnerable.
• ⚡ Electrics: oxidation of contacts in the fuse box under the hood (leads to erratic errors ABS And ESP), failure of the throttle position sensor.
• 🔊 Suspension: Knocks in the front suspension are usually associated with wear on the stabilizer bushings or upper shock absorber mounts. Rear air struts in complete sets LE serve no more than 120,000 km.

⚠️ Attention: If the CVT experiences jerking or vibration when shifting gears, immediately check the oil level and condition of the solenoids. Driving with a faulty CVT can lead to complete failure of the gearbox (repair cost starts from 250,000 rubles).

The all-wheel drive system deserves special attention. In mode 4WD Lock the load on the rear gearbox increases, which over time leads to wear of the satellites. Owners recommend avoiding prolonged use of the lock on dry pavement.

How to check the CVT when buying a used Murano?

1. Warm up the box to operating temperature (drive 10–15 km).

2. On a flat surface, sharply press the gas pedal - there should be no jerking.

3. Check the oil on the dipstick: it should be light, without a burnt smell or metal shavings.

4. Pay attention to vibrations at speeds of 60–80 km/h - this may indicate wear on the shaft bearings.

Options and equipment

In Russia Nissan Murano Z51 officially supplied in three trim levels: SE, SL And LE. Basic version SE included climate control, leather interior, electric seats and sunroof, and an audio system with 6 speakers. Version SL added to this a rear view camera, navigation and heated steering wheel. Flagship LE featured air suspension, ventilated front seats and a Bose with 11 speakers.

Optionally offered:

• 🎨 Body color: exclusive shade Java Metallic (only for LE), two-tone paint with black roof
• 🔑 Security: blind spot monitoring system (BSW), adaptive cruise control (ICC)
• 💺 Comfort: Power third row seats (USA and Middle East markets only)
• 📡 Multimedia: rear monitor with DVD-player (optional for SL/LE)

Fun fact: in 2010 Nissan released a limited edition Murano CrossCabriolet - convertible on base Z51 with a soft folding roof. In total, about 4,000 copies were produced, and today this version is considered a collector's item (the price on the secondary market starts from 3 million rubles).

Equipment	SE	SL	LE
Air suspension	—	—	+
360° camera	—	+	+
Seat ventilation	—	—	+
Adaptive cruise	—	Option	+

Comparison with competitors: Murano vs Highlander vs Pilot

Main competitors Murano Z51 on the secondary market are Toyota Highlander XU40 (2007–2013) and Honda Pilot RD3/4 (2009–2015). All three models offer similar dimensions and level of equipment, but differ in reliability and cost of ownership.

Key differences:

• 🔧 Engines:
  • Murano: petrol only VQ35 (3.5 l)
  • Highlander: gasoline 3.5 l + hybrid 3.3 l, since 2010 - diesel 2.2 l (for Europe)
  • Pilot: gasoline 3.5 l J35 (250 hp) or 3.7 l J37 (300 hp for USA)
• 🛣️ Transmission:
  • Murano: CVT Jatco (lifetime ~200,000 km with proper maintenance)
  • Highlander: 5-speed automatic (Aisin) or CVT in a hybrid
  • Pilot: 5-speed automatic (Honda) or 6-speed (since 2012)
• 💰 Cost of ownership:
  • Murano: expensive CVT repair, but cheap consumables
  • Highlander: reliable, but expensive original spare parts (especially the hybrid version)
  • Pilot: body corrosion problems (especially in the rear arches), but simple design

According to owner reviews, Murano It outperforms its competitors in terms of comfort and controllability, but loses in reliability over long runs. Highlander is considered the most “problem-free”, but its interior looks outdated after 5 years. Honda Pilot I like it for the spacious interior, but I'm disappointed with the quality of the paintwork.

Secondary market prices and selection tips

Cost Nissan Murano Z51 on the Russian secondary market in 2026 varies from 600,000 to 1,800,000 rubles depending on the year of manufacture, mileage and condition. The cheapest offers are models from 2007–2009 with a mileage of 200,000 km. Cars from 2012–2014 in good condition cost from 1.2 million rubles.

Checklist for inspecting a used car Murano Z51:

Average prices by region:

Year of manufacture	Mileage, thousand km	Moscow and region	Regions (large cities)	Far East
2007–2009	180–250	700 000 – 900 000 ₽	600 000 – 800 000 ₽	850 000 – 1 100 000 ₽
2010–2011	120–180	900 000 – 1 200 000 ₽	800 000 – 1 000 000 ₽	1 100 000 – 1 400 000 ₽
2012–2014	80–120	1 200 000 – 1 800 000 ₽	1 000 000 – 1 500 000 ₽	1 400 000 – 1 900 000 ₽

Buying tip: Avoid cars with more than 200,000 km unless they have a full service history. It is especially critical to check the variator - its repair can cost half the cost of the car. The best option is 2011-2012 Murano with mileage up to 150,000 km and records of CVT oil changes every 40,000 km.

⚠️ Attention: Often found in the Far East Murano, imported from Japan. Such cars may have hidden body problems due to salty air. Before purchasing, check the thickness of the paintwork on the sills and arches - this is a normal indicator for Z51 should not be less than 120 microns.

Tuning and modernization of Murano Z51

Owners Murano Z51 Often they upgrade a car to improve its appearance or maneuverability. Popular tuning areas:

• 🚗 Appearance:
  • Installation of body kit from Nismo or replicas Murano CrossCabriolet
  • Window tinting (allowed standard: 30% light transmission for front windows)
  • LED headlights and LED- interior lighting
• 🛠️ Chassis:
  • Replacing air struts with conventional shock absorbers (KYB or Bilstein)
  • Installing spacers to increase ground clearance (up to +30 mm)
  • Larger diameter tires (maximum 245/55 R20 without modifications)
• 🔊 Multimedia:
  • Replacing the standard radio with Android Auto with support Apple CarPlay
  • Installing a 360-degree camera (if it was not included in the package)
• ⚡ Engine:
  • Chip tuning to increase power (up to +20 hp at VQ35HR)
  • Exhaust system installation Invidia or Tanabe (improves sound, but does not add power)

Important: any changes in the design (for example, a suspension lift or replacement of air struts) require inclusion in the PTS. Otherwise, problems may arise when passing the technical inspection. It is also worth remembering that tuning the variator (for example, installing additional radiators) is not always justified - CVT service life Murano Z51 depends more on the quality of the oil than on modifications.

The following modifications are popular among owners:

• 🔋 Replacing the standard battery with AGM (For example, Bosch S6) for reliable starting in winter
• 🔥 Installation of pre-heater Webasto or Eberspächer
• 🛡️ Covering the body with protective film (especially the hood and front bumper)

Owner reviews: pros and cons

According to polls on forums Drive2 And Nissan-Club.ru, most owners Murano Z51 They note the comfortable suspension, spacious interior and reliable engine. However, there are also criticisms related to the CVT and electrics.

Typical reviews:

• ✅ Pros:
  • “The car is very soft and quiet - on the highway you feel like you’re in business class”
  • "Engine VQ35 runs 300,000+ km without capital if you use good oil"
  • "The design still looks modern, especially in the body CrossCabriolet"
• ❌ Cons:
  • “The variator began to kick after 180,000 km - repairs cost 180,000 rubles”
  • “The electronics are buggy: either the tire pressure sensor will work falsely, or the climate control will switch itself”
  • "Fuel consumption in the city is 14–16 liters, although according to the passport it should be 11.5"

Interesting fact: in the American market Murano Z51 It is considered one of the most reliable crossovers in its class. In the ranking J.D. Power The 2013 model received 4.5 stars out of 5 for reliability. In Russia, the reputation is slightly worse due to harsh operating conditions and low-quality fuel.

There is an opinion among owners that Murano — this is a “women’s car” because of the soft suspension and ease of parking. However, many men choose it precisely for its comfort and reliability. For example, on Drive2 there is a report on how Murano Z51 passed 500,000 km without breakdowns in 10 years (with regular maintenance and oil changes every 5,000 km).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z51

Can you tow a trailer with a Murano with a CVT?

Yes, but with restrictions. The manufacturer allows towing a trailer weighing up to 900 kg (without brakes) or 1,500 kg (with brakes). However, at the same time:

• It is necessary to use the mode 4WD Lock for even load distribution
• The speed should not exceed 80 km/h
• After towing, be sure to check the oil level in the variator - it may overheat

For regular towing it is better to consider Nissan Pathfinder R51 with a classic automatic transmission.

What kind of oil to pour into the Murano Z51 variator?

Official requirement - Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (article KLE52-00004). After 2012 you can use NS-3, but they cannot be mixed. Important details:

• Filling volume - 9.5 liters (with full replacement)
• Analogues: Idemitsu CVTF or Ravenol CVT, but only with permission NS-2
• The replacement must include flushing the variator radiator (otherwise the old oil will mix with the new one)

How do I turn off Active Ride Control?

If the electronically controlled shock absorbers begin to knock or work incorrectly, they can be switched to passive mode:

1. Open the fuse box under the hood
2. Remove the fuse F37 (10A) - he is responsible for the system solenoids
3. Reset the error using the diagnostic scanner (code C1130)

After this, the shock absorbers will work as usual, but the suspension stiffness will become constant.

What should you do if your Murano won't start, but the starter turns?

Most often the problem is related to:

• Crankshaft position sensor (error P0335)
• Fuel pump (check the rail pressure - it should be 3.5 bar)
• Ignition coils (swap the coils of cylinders 1 and 4 - if the problem moves, the coil is to blame)

If the engine "starts" but stalls, check MAF sensor (error P0100). It can be cleaned with a special spray (CRC MAF Cleaner).

How much does it cost to overhaul a VQ35 engine?

Prices depend on the scope of work:

• Replacing piston rings — from 80,000 rubles (with work)
• Crankshaft grinding + bearings — from 50,000 rubles
• Complete re-pinning (block boring, new pistons) — 150,000–200,000 rubles
• Contract engine — 180,000–250,000 rubles (depending on mileage)

Average resource VQ35 to capital - 300,000–350,000 km with proper maintenance. The main thing is to avoid overheating and change the oil every 7,000–8,000 km.