Where is the oil filter located on a Nissan Murano: a complete replacement guide

Finding and replacing consumables on Japanese crossovers often raises questions among owners who do not have deep technical knowledge. Nissan Murano is no exception to this rule, especially when it comes to engine maintenance. Many car owners mistakenly believe that the filter element is hidden deep in the engine compartment, which requires the dismantling of many attachments.

In fact, the location oil filter depends on the year of manufacture and generation of your car. Owners Nissan Murano first and second generations (Z50 and Z51) you need to know the specific access features so as not to damage neighboring nodes. An incorrect procedure may result in leaks or difficulties in subsequent maintenance operations.

Location features depending on generation

Space under the hood of a crossover Nissan Murano designed quite tightly, especially in models with powerful VQ series engines. For first generation cars (2003–2007), the filter is located in the lower part of the engine compartment, which requires lifting the car on a lift or using an inspection pit. This is a classic solution that is typical for many cars of those years.

In more recent versions such as Nissan Murano second generation (2009–2014) and third (since 2015), the design of the engine compartment has undergone changes. Engineers have tried to optimize access, but accessibility still varies depending on trim level and engine type (V6 3.5L). In some cases, the filter has been moved closer to the front bumper, but access to it is still limited.

• 🔧 First generation (Z50): the filter is located at the very bottom, near the engine crankcase.
• 🚗 Second generation (Z51): access is often blocked by plastic protection shields.
• 🔩 Third generation (Z52): similar arrangement to Z51, but with modified mounts.

⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with a VQ35DE engine, access to the filter may be difficult due to the proximity of the coolant expansion tank. Never attempt to remove the filter without making sure the engine is completely cool to avoid burns from steam or hot fluid.

Understanding exactly where the filtration element is located is critical to planning the job. If you plan to do the replacement yourself, you must prepare an accessible site with lifting equipment in advance. No pit or lift, quality replacement oil filter on Nissan Murano almost impossible due to the low landing of the car.

Necessary tools and workplace preparation

Before you begin searching and dismantling, make sure you have all the necessary tools at hand. A standard set of wrenches may not be suitable here, since nuts and fasteners often have a specific size and shape. Particular attention should be paid to the filter puller, since it is often impossible to unscrew a stuck element by hand.

For the job, you will need a jack and reliable supports, unless you are using a professional lift. Safety is the number one priority due to the significant weight of the vehicle. Also don't forget about a container to drain the used oil and a new drain bolt gasket, which often comes with the filter or is sold separately.

Don't forget to prepare a place under the car. The oil will leak out quickly, and if you place the container incorrectly, you can stain the engine or the surface under the car. It is best to use a wide, flat container to minimize the risk of splashing.

• 🛠️ Filter puller: It is best to use a chain or belt puller as they are versatile.
• 🧤 Gloves: Use protective gloves as the oil may be hot and contain harmful impurities.
• 🔦 Flashlight: lighting in the engine compartment and under the car is often insufficient.

Step-by-step instructions for access and replacement

The replacement process begins with preparing the car. Drive Nissan Murano on a flat surface, apply the handbrake and engage neutral (or park). Raise the front of the car with a jack and place supports under the frame or subframe. Never work under a machine supported solely by a jack.

Next, you need to remove the engine protection, if installed. On many versions Nissan Murano There is a plastic or metal pan that blocks access to the oil filter and drain plug. Unscrew the fastening bolts and carefully remove the protection, putting it aside. This will give you a view of the underside of the engine.

Find oil filter. It is a cylindrical element, usually black or metallic in color, located on the side or bottom of the cylinder block. On Nissan Murano with the VQ35DE engine it is often located on the right side (when viewed in the direction of travel), closer to the radiator. Use a flashlight to pinpoint its location.

⚠️ Attention: When unscrewing the filter, be prepared for some more oil to leak out of it. Keep a container handy and place it directly under the filter as you remove it.

Loosen the filter with a puller counterclockwise. When it is loose enough to unscrew by hand, continue unscrewing until it comes off completely. Clean the seat on the engine from dirt and remnants of the old gasket. This is critical to preventing future leaks.

How to properly lubricate a new gasket

Before installing a new filter, be sure to apply a thin layer of fresh engine oil to the rubber gasket. This will ensure a tight connection and allow you to easily unscrew the filter the next time you replace it. Without lubrication, the rubber may stick to the engine block and tear during removal.

Install the new filter by hand screwing it in until it stops. Do not use final tightening tools unless specified in the filter manufacturer's instructions. Usually it is enough to tighten it 3/4 of a turn after the gasket touches it. After this, check the drain plug and, if necessary, replace its gasket.

Choosing the right filter and replacement intervals

Choosing a quality filter is the key to long engine life. Nissan Murano. Original filter from Nissan always guarantees compliance with all technical requirements. However, there are also high-quality analogues on the market from trusted brands, which can cost less with comparable filtration quality.

It is important to pay attention to the part number. Different filters may be suitable for different generations and engines. A mistake when purchasing can result in the filter simply not screwing on or having the wrong gasket dimensions. Always check the part number with the one on the old item or in the technical documentation.

Generation	Engine	Original filter number	Analogues
Z50 (1)	VQ35DE	15208-65F0A	Toyota 15620-31090, Mann W712/94
Z51 (2)	VQ35DE	15208-65F0A	NGK 6357, Bosch 0451103316
Z52 (3)	VQ35DE	15208-65F0A	Mahle OC 593, Filtron OP 592
All	All	Always check compatibility before purchasing	Cross numbers may change

The oil and filter change interval depends on operating conditions. In an urban cycle with frequent traffic jams oil filter should be changed every 7–8 thousand kilometers. If you often drive on the highway or in difficult conditions (dust, off-road), the interval should be reduced to 5–6 thousand kilometers.

The use of non-original filters with a low filtration degree can lead to rapid engine wear. Dirt particles entering the lubrication system act as an abrasive, accelerating wear of the piston group and bearings. Therefore, saving on a filter is a false economy, which can result in expensive repairs.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

One of the most common mistakes is not tightening the filter correctly. Over-tightening can distort the gasket or damage the threads, causing leaks. Tightening it too loose will cause the filter to unscrew under oil pressure and you will lose its contents on the road.

Another mistake is forgetting when installing a new filter. Sometimes car owners forget to remove the protective film from the gasket or do not lubricate it with oil. This results in the filter not being screwed in completely or the gasket being twisted, which guarantees leakage. It is also important to remember to remove the old filter if you are installing a new one and the old one is still in place.

• ❌ Twisting the gasket: Always check that the gasket lies flat.
• ❌ Using tools: Do not tighten the filter with a wrench, only with your hands.
• ❌ Ignoring the drain plug: Be sure to replace the plug gasket at every oil change.

Another problem is oil spilling on a hot engine or exhaust system components. This may cause an unpleasant odor or even a fire. Always work carefully and immediately clean up spilled oil with a rag.

⚠️ Attention: If you hear a strange noise or see an oil pressure indicator when starting the engine after replacement, turn off the engine immediately. This may indicate that the filter is not installed correctly or is clogged.

Correct installation oil filter ensures stable oil pressure in the system. This is critical to lubricating all moving parts of the engine. Do not ignore the manufacturer's recommendations for tightening and checking for leaks.

Service Questions and Answers

In this section we will answer the most common questions that owners have Nissan Murano when servicing the lubrication system. These answers will help you avoid common mistakes and save time.

Is it possible to replace the oil filter without a pit?

Replacing a filter without a pit or lift is extremely difficult and is not recommended. The filter is located at the bottom of the engine, and access to it from the ground is almost impossible without special equipment. Attempting to do this while lying on the ground can lead to injury and poor performance.

How much oil should I fill after replacing the filter?

Oil volume depends on the engine, but for most versions Nissan Murano with the VQ35DE engine it is about 4.5–5.0 liters. Always check the oil level with a dipstick after filling and starting the engine. Do not fill the full volume at once, but add gradually, controlling the level.

What to do if the filter is stuck and cannot be unscrewed?

If the filter is stuck, use a puller and carefully loosen it. You can try heating the filter housing with a hair dryer (not a blowtorch!) to expand the metal. If all else fails, drilling or using a special cutting tool may be necessary. The main thing is not to damage the threads on the engine.

Do I need to change the drain plug gasket when replacing the filter?

It is highly recommended to change the drain plug gasket at every oil change. An old gasket may lose its seal and cause oil leakage. This is a cheap part that prevents major problems.

How often should you check the oil level?

It is recommended to check the oil level every 2–3 thousand kilometers or once a month. This will allow you to notice leaks or oil waste in time. Always check the level with the engine cool to get an accurate reading.