Fresh air inside a car is not just comfort, but a critical element of the health of the driver and passengers. For crossover owners Nissan Murano this is especially true given that many models are equipped with complex climate control and recirculation systems. Over time, the filtration element becomes clogged with dust, lint and soot, which reduces the efficiency of the air conditioner and creates an unpleasant odor.
Many car owners mistakenly believe that replacing this consumable requires a visit to an authorized dealer and expensive equipment. In fact, the process takes no more than ten minutes and does not require special tools. The main thing is to know the exact location of the compartment and choose the correct part number, since for different generations Murano (Z50, Z51, Z52) filters with excellent parameters are installed.
Ignoring timely maintenance of the ventilation system can lead to fogging of the windows in rainy weather and a decrease in the power of air flow from the deflectors. If you notice that the fan is running at maximum speed, but the car is still stuffy, this is a direct signal that the filtration element has reached a critical level of contamination. Regular replacement - this is the key to the long life of your climate control equipment.
Selecting the right consumables
Before you begin dismantling the old element, you need to choose the right new one. There are many offers on the auto parts market, from original parts to high-quality analogues. For Nissan Murano The original part number is often listed as 27277-ED00A or 27277-ED01A, but it is important to check compatibility with your specific year of manufacture.
There are two main types of filters: simple carbon and polyester. Carbon models contain activated carbon, which not only traps mechanical particles, but also neutralizes harmful gases and unpleasant odors from the outside. Polyester filters are cheaper, but they only perform mechanical air purification. The choice depends on your financial capabilities and the environmental situation in the region of operation.
- 🌿 Original spare parts: they guarantee a perfect fit and the stated service life, but are much more expensive than their analogues.
- 💨 Coal analogues: Brands like Mann-Filter or Mahle offer excellent filtration at a more affordable price.
- 🚫 Budget options: Cheap filters can quickly lose their shape or allow dust to pass through, clogging the air conditioner evaporator.
⚠️ Attention! Do not buy filters without packaging or with damaged protective film. This is often a sign that the part has already been used or has been stored in inappropriate conditions, which reduces its filtration properties.
Particular attention should be paid to the density of the material. A high-quality filter should feel quite dense to the touch, and its frame should be rigid. If the filter is soft and easily deformed when pressed, it will not be able to provide a proper seal in the compartment, and dirty air will leak past the filter.
Location and access to the filter compartment
On most generations Nissan Murano The cabin filter is located behind the glove box (glove compartment) on the passenger side. This is a standard solution for many crossovers, which allows you to easily access the element without disassembling the instrument panel. However, the design of the glove compartment may vary slightly depending on the year of the vehicle.
To access the compartment, the glove box must be lowered completely. Usually, this requires snapping off special stops or stoppers that limit its opening. In some modifications, the glove compartment opens only to a certain angle, after which you need to gently press on the side walls to remove them from the grooves.
The process of freeing up space requires care, since the interior plastic can be fragile in the cold. If you are doing work in winter, it is recommended to preheat the interior so that the plastic becomes more elastic and does not crack when deformed.
- 🔧 Clear the space: Remove all unnecessary items from the glove compartment to prevent them from falling into hard-to-reach areas under the dashboard.
- 📦 Check the stops: Look closely at the sides of the drawer to find the attachment points that need to be pressed out.
- 👀 Inspect the compartment: after opening the lid you will see a rectangular body with a lid, which is the filter element.
Sometimes access may be difficult due to installed additional accessories or wiring if the car has been tuned. In such cases, you should not make excessive efforts; it is better to carefully study the fastening diagram.
Step-by-step replacement instructions
The replacement process itself is not difficult even for a beginner. The main thing is to act consistently and not to apply excessive force to the plastic parts. You will need a Phillips screwdriver (in some cases) and a new filter. The whole process will take about 10-15 minutes.
First you need to remove the filter housing cover. It is usually secured with plastic clips or a single screw. If there is a screw, unscrew it with a screwdriver. If latches are used, carefully pry them open with your fingers or a flathead screwdriver to avoid damaging the plastic. When you remove the cover, you will see the old filter.
☑️ Preparation for replacement
Remove the old element and be sure to check for any foreign objects, leaves or debris inside the compartment. Sticks and leaves often get caught inside and can cause noise when the fan is running or even block the fan blades. Wipe the inside of the case with a dry cloth.
Insert the new filter in the correct orientation. The filter housing usually has arrows indicating the direction of air flow. Incorrect installation will reduce filtration efficiency and may cause noise. Air direction should align with the arrow on the filter housing.
- ⬇️ Down arrow: Often indicates the direction of air flow from top to bottom.
- ⬆️ Up arrow: Less common, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- ✅ Fit check: the filter must fit tightly into the grooves, without gaps around the perimeter.
After installing the filter, return the cover to its place and secure the latches or screw. Close the glove box until it clicks, making sure it fits snugly against the panel. At this point the replacement is considered complete.
⚠️ Attention! If you inserted the filter incorrectly, the direction of the arrow will be against the air flow. This will cause the filter to act like a pump, sucking dust into the cabin rather than filtering it.
- Every year
- Every 2 years
- Only when it smells
- Never changed
Typical maintenance errors
Even a simple replacement procedure can be carried out with errors that will reduce the efficiency of the system. One of the most common problems is ignoring air flow direction arrows. Manufacturers apply them for a reason, but to ensure optimal aerodynamics inside the body.
Another mistake is using the wrong size filter. If the filter is smaller, dirty air will flow past it. If it is too large, it will have to be compressed, which will lead to deformation and destruction of the filter material. Always check part numbers before purchasing.
Some car owners try to “wash” old filters with water or blow them out with compressed air. This is strictly prohibited, especially for coal models. Water destroys the structure of activated carbon, and compressed air can damage the microfibers through which filtration occurs.
Sometimes during installation they forget to check for the presence of a rubber seal. If the rubber band is missing or damaged, the tightness of the system will be compromised and dust will penetrate into the cabin, bypassing the filter. Inspect the old part before disposing of it.
Why does the filter get dirty quickly?
If you often drive on dirt roads or in dusty city conditions, the filter may clog faster than normal. In such cases, it is recommended to change it every 10-15 thousand kilometers, and not once a year.
Signs that replacement is needed
You can determine that it’s time to change the filter not only by the regulations, but also by indirect signs. The first and most obvious signal is the appearance of an unpleasant odor in the cabin, especially when the air conditioning or heating is turned on. A musty smell is often a sign of bacteria and mold growing on a dirty filter.
The second sign is a decrease in the intensity of air flow from the deflectors. If you turn on the fan at maximum speed and there is still not enough air, most likely the filter is so clogged that it is blocking the air supply. This creates extra stress on the stove motor.
It is also worth paying attention to the speed of glass fogging. A dirty filter cannot effectively remove moisture from the air, which leads to rapid condensation on the windshield. This reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents.
If you notice that dust or small debris is flying from the deflectors, this is a sure sign that the filter element has become unusable and has ceased to perform its functions. In this case, replacement must be carried out immediately.
| Sign | Probable Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unpleasant smell | Mold and bacteria on the filter | Filter replacement + system disinfection |
| Weak air flow | Severe element contamination | Immediate replacement |
| Fogging of windows | Impaired air circulation | Replacing the filter |
| Dust from deflectors | Destruction of the filter layer | Replacing and checking seals |
Additional system care tips
In addition to regularly replacing the filter, it is worth paying attention to the general condition of the ventilation system. Periodically use special sprays to clean the air conditioner evaporator. This will help prevent mold from growing inside the system, which can negate the effectiveness of even a new filter.
If you live in a dusty area or do a lot of off-road driving, consider installing a high-performance filter. These models often have a denser structure and can last longer under harsh operating conditions.
Don’t forget to check the condition of the rubber seals on the filter housing. Over time, the rubber may become dull or crack. If damaged, it is recommended to replace the seal to ensure complete sealing of the system.
Before installing a new filter, lightly moisten it with water (if it is not a carbon filter) to reduce the amount of dust that may rise when you first turn on the ventilation.
Use air recirculation mode in traffic jams. This will prevent you from sucking in exhaust gases from other cars and reduce the load on the filter. However, do not forget to periodically switch to fresh air to avoid fogging up the windows.
Regularly replacing the filter and cleaning the ventilation system is an easy way to keep your passengers healthy and extend the life of your Nissan Murano's expensive climate control equipment.
Owner Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to replace a filter on a Nissan Murano?
On average, the process takes 10 to 15 minutes if you know where the compartment is and how to open the glove box. Beginners may need a little more time to learn the fastening mechanism.
Is it possible to use a filter without carbon impregnation?
Yes, you can use a regular polyester filter. It will trap dust and debris, but will not be able to neutralize unpleasant odors and harmful gases from the exhaust of other cars. For the city, it is better to choose coal models.
Where is the cabin air filter located on the Nissan Murano Z52?
On the Z52, the filter is also located behind the glove compartment on the front passenger side. The mounting design may be slightly different from previous generations, but the general principle of access remains the same.
What should I do if noise appears after replacing the filter?
Perhaps the filter is installed incorrectly or a foreign body (leaf, coin) has entered the housing. Check the orientation of the arrow on the filter and make sure there is no debris inside the compartment.
Do I need to change the filter every year?
Regulations usually recommend replacement once a year or every 15-20 thousand kilometers. However, if you operate the car in dusty conditions, it is better to change it more often - every 10 thousand kilometers.