Nissan Murano Z50 throttle training: instructions with errors and nuances

Throttle valve Nissan Murano Z50 (2003–2007) - a key unit responsible for supplying air to the engine and correct operation of the electronic gas pedal. Over time, it becomes dirty, and after cleaning or replacement it requires mandatory training - a procedure that many owners miss when later faced with floating speed, jerking or an error P0505 (malfunction of the idle speed control system). In this article we will look at how to properly perform training on Murano Z50 with engines VQ35DE (3.5 l), avoiding typical mistakes and saving on diagnostics.

The throttle training procedure on this crossover has its own characteristics: it differs from the algorithms for Nissan X-Trail T30 or Qashqai J10, where a different ECU firmware is used. Here it is important not only to follow the steps, but also to take into account engine temperature, battery condition and even the brand of scanner used (if you connect it to reset errors). We have collected verified information from manuals Nissan, car service experience and owner reviews - without fluff and general phrases.

When is Throttle Learning Required on a Murano Z50?

The training procedure is needed not only after mechanical intervention. Here is a complete list of cases when it must be performed:

• 🔧 After cleaning the throttle valve (even if you did not remove it from the car). Soot and dirt change the geometry of the channel, and the ECU must again “remember” the extreme positions of the damper.
• 🔄 After replacing the throttle assembly or its components (for example, throttle position sensor). The new unit has different factory parameters.
• 🚗 When errors occur P0505, P0507 (high idle speed) or P2101 (malfunction of the damper drive). Sometimes training will solve the problem without replacing parts.
• 🔋 After battery disconnection for a long time (more than 30 minutes) or replacing it. The ECU resets the adaptive settings.
• 🔧 After flashing the ECU or resetting its settings (for example, through Consult-III or Nissan DataScan).

Important: if you cleaned the damper without removing (for example, washed WD-40 or a special purifier through the air duct), training is still required! Even a minimal displacement of the damper axis leads to incorrect sensor readings.

⚠️ Attention: Don't confuse throttle learning with idle speed adaptation. The latter is performed automatically by the ECU when the engine is first started, but if the damper is not trained, adaptation will occur with errors and the speed will fluctuate.

Preparing for training: tools and conditions

Before starting the procedure, make sure that all conditions are met:

• 🔥 Engine fully warmed up (coolant temperature is not lower than 80°C). A cold motor will provide incorrect training data.
• 🔋 Battery voltage is not lower 12.5 V. If the battery is weak, connect the charger - a voltage drop during the procedure will lead to a failure.
• 🚗 The car is standing on flat surface, box in position P (for automatic transmission) or neutral (for manual transmission).
• 🔌 All electricity consumers (headlights, air conditioner, audio system) are turned off. The load on the generator will distort the results.
• 🛠️ Should be at hand scanner (For example, ELM327 with the program Torque or Nissan DataScan) to reset errors after training.

If you are using Consult-III or Nissan Diagnostic Tool (NDT), check their compatibility with Murano Z50. Some Chinese clones do not reset errors correctly P0505, and they have to be washed by hand through ECU Relearn.

Tool	Suitable for training?	Notes
ELM327 (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi)	Yes	Supported software required Nissan Relearn (For example, Torque Pro with plugin).
Consult-III (original)	Yes	The most reliable option, but expensive. Supports full reset of adaptations.
Chinese clone Consult-III	Partially	May not reset error P0505 - Re-training will be required.
Nissan DataScan	Yes	Free alternative, but only works with the original adapter.
Without scanner (manual method)	Yes	Requires precise timing. Suitable for experienced owners.

Step-by-step instructions: learning the throttle without a scanner

This method is suitable if you do not have diagnostic equipment. It is based on the manual Nissan for Murano Z50 and verified by the owners on the forums. Important: don't interrupt the process — if you make a mistake, you will have to start over or go to a service station to reset the adaptations.

Turn off the engine, remove the key from the ignition

Make sure the gas pedal is fully released

Wait 10 seconds (to discharge the capacitors in the ECU)

Insert the key into the lock, but do not turn it

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Next, follow the algorithm:

1. Step 1. Turn the key to position ON (ignition on, engine off). Wait 3 seconds.
2. Step 2. During 5 seconds Press the gas pedal all the way down and release it. Repeat it 5 times (speed is important - there should be no more pauses between presses 1 seconds).
3. Step 3. After the 5th press, wait 7 seconds, then press the gas pedal all the way and hold it there.
4. Step 4. Via 10 seconds on the dashboard will start flashing Check Engine (or indicator SLIP on some versions). As soon as the flashing starts, release the pedal.
5. Step 5. Start the engine and let it idle 1–2 minutes. The speed may temporarily rise to 1500–2000 rpm - that's normal.
6. Step 6. Turn off the ignition 10 seconds, then start the car again. Check engine operation at idle and while driving.

If after training the speed floats or lights up Check Engine, which means the procedure was incorrect. In this case:

• Repeat the training from the very beginning.
• Check the battery voltage - if it drops below 12 V during the procedure, start again.
• If the error P0505 remains, use the scanner to reset it.

Throttle training using scanner (Consult-III, ELM327)

If you have a diagnostic scanner, the process is simplified. We will look at the algorithm using an example Nissan DataScan And Consult-III, since they are the most reliable for Murano Z50.

Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel, to the left of the brake pedal). Turn on the ignition, but do not start the engine. Next:

1. Select a model in the program Nissan Murano (2003–2007), engine VQ35DE.
2. Go to section ECU → Engine → Relearn/Initialization.
3. Select an item Throttle Valve Closed Position Learning (teaching the closed position of the damper).
4. Follow the instructions on the screen. Typically required:
   • Press the gas pedal all the way and release (to calibrate the sensor).
   • Wait 10–30 secondsuntil the scanner confirms the procedure is complete.

After teaching the closed position, select Idle Air Volume Learning (learning air volume at idle).

Start the engine and let it run 5–10 minutes at idle speed. The scanner itself will determine the moment of completion of adaptation.

If you use ELM327 with Torque Pro, look for a plugin Nissan ECU Relearn. You need to select the option Throttle Body Alignment and follow the prompts. The main thing is not to turn off the scanner until the end of the procedure, otherwise the settings will be reset.

⚠️ Attention: On some versions of the ECU firmware, after learning with a scanner, it is required manual error reset, even if Check Engine does not burn. Use the function Clear DTC in the diagnostic program.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Murano Z50 encounter problems after learning the throttle. Here are the most common mistakes and their solutions:

• ❌ The engine is not warmed up. If the temperature is lower 80°C, the ECU will record incorrect data. Warm up the engine to operating temperature and repeat the procedure.
• ❌ Interrupting the procedure. If you release the gas pedal ahead of time (in step 4 of the manual method), the learning will be reset. Start again.
• ❌ Weak battery. Voltage drop below 12 V leads to failure. Connect the charger or use a jump charger.
• ❌ Using a non-original throttle assembly. Cheap analogues (for example, from Febi or JP Group) may have other opening angles. In this case, training will not help - you need ECU firmware.
• ❌ Errors are not cleared after training. Even if the procedure was successful, old errors (P0505, P0507) may remain in the ECU memory. Use a scanner to remove them.

A critical nuance for the Murano Z50: if after training the idle speed is high (more than 1000 rpm) and does not fall within 5 minutes, it means the throttle assembly is worn out damper drive (motor). In this case, training will not help - the assembly will need to be replaced.

Symptom	Possible reason	Solution
RPM fluctuates after training	Poor cleaning of the damper (carbon deposits remain)	Repeat cleaning using LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line or Wynns.
Engine stalls when releasing gas	Idle speed adaptation not performed	Carry out the procedure for keeping the speed at 2000 rpm within 2 minutes.
Error P0505 returns after reset	Worn damper position sensor	Replace the sensor or throttle assembly.
The damper “snacks” when opening	Dirt getting into the mechanism or wear of the drive gear	Disassemble the assembly, clean and lubricate silicone grease (not WD-40!).

What to do if training doesn't help?

If you repeated the procedure several times, but the problem remains, check:

1. **Condition of the throttle assembly** - the damper axle or drive may be worn out. On Murano Z50 This is a common problem after 150,000 km.

2. **Wiring of sensors** - oxidation of contacts or broken wires to the damper position sensor (connector C101 under the hood).

3. **ECU firmware** - required on some software versions calibration update through Consult-III.

4. **Vacuum Leaks** - Check intake manifold hoses and valve PCV (often sucks air through cracks).

Cleaning the throttle valve: how not to harm it

Before training, the damper is often cleaned. But improper cleaning can make the problem worse. Here's how to do it right:

• 🧹 Use only special cleaners (For example, LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Drosselklappen-Reiniger or Wynns Throttle Body Cleaner). WD-40 or carbcleaner They leave an oil film that attracts dirt.
• 🔧 Do not use metal brushes or abrasives - they scratch the surface of the damper, breaking the seal.
• 🕳️ After cleaning be sure to blow it channels with compressed air to remove any remaining cleaner.
• 🔩 If you remove the throttle assembly, replace it gasket (article Nissan 16536-4M000). The old one may leak air.

On Murano Z50 the throttle assembly is secured with four bolts under Torx T25. When removing, be careful not to damage the damper position sensor connector. After installing the unit in place do not overtighten the bolts (tightening torque - 10 Nm), otherwise the body will be deformed.

Checking learning results

How do you know that the procedure was successful? Here are the telltale signs:

• ✅ Idle speed is stable: 650–750 rpm (for Murano Z50 with automatic transmission the norm is up to 800 rpm).
• ✅ There are no jerks when accelerating or braking the engine.
• ✅ Bugs P0505, P0507 do not return after reset.
• ✅ The engine responds quickly to pressing the gas pedal (without “thoughtfulness”).

If something goes wrong, do it test drive:

1. Drive 5–10 km in different modes (city/highway).
2. Pay attention to the behavior of the engine when:
   • Press the gas sharply (should respond without failure).
   • Engine braking (the speed should drop smoothly).
   • Idling after stopping (the speed should not “walk”).

If problems persist, check fuel system adaptation (should reset automatically after the damper is taught).

⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z50 with mileage over 200,000 km floating speeds after training may be due to wear injectors or idle air valve (if installed). In this case, a comprehensive diagnosis is required.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to train the throttle on a cold engine?

No. The ECU calibrates the damper based on current temperature engine. If it's lower 80°C, the data will be incorrect and the speed will fluctuate. Warm up the engine to operating temperature (the radiator fan should work at least once).

How many times can you repeat the training if it doesn’t work?

No more 3 times in a row. If the procedure fails, it means there is a mechanical problem (damper wear, sensor malfunction) or errors in the ECU firmware. Further attempts will only reset adaptations, making the situation worse.

Do I need to train the throttle after replacing the air filter?

No, if you haven't touched the throttle body. Replacing the filter does not affect the damper calibrations. However, if after replacing the filter errors appear (P0100, P0171), check the tightness of the air duct - perhaps air leaks.

Can the ELM327 scanner be used for training?

Yes, but only with supported software (for example, Torque Pro with plugin Nissan Relearn or Nissan DataScan). Cheap versions of ELM (for example, v1.5) may not reset errors correctly. To be safe, use Consult-III or a high-quality clone of it.

What should I do if the Check Engine light comes on after training?

Connect the scanner and check the error code:

• P0505 — malfunction of the idle speed control system. Repeat training or check throttle assembly.
• P0120 — malfunction of the damper position sensor. The sensor needs to be replaced.
• P0300 - random misfires. Check the spark plugs, coils and injectors.

Reset the error and take it for a test drive. If it comes back, look for a mechanical problem.