Crossover owners Nissan Murano second generation, known as the Z50 body, are often faced with the need for routine maintenance related to the ignition system. The key here is to understand the spatial configuration of the power unit, as incorrect determination of the cylinder number can lead to incorrect replacement of components or incorrect diagnosis. Cylinder arrangement As a V-twin engine, the VQ35DE has its own specific features that distinguish it from in-line engines and other V-twin engines from competitors.
Understanding where each of the six cylinders is located is critical to maintaining your vehicle yourself. If you plan to change spark plugs or coils, you need to know exactly which unit a particular number belongs to. A numbering error will waste time and possibly damage nearby components under the hood.
Motor VQ35DE, installed on Nissan Murano Z50, is a legendary unit, but its maintenance requires care. Unlike many European analogues, Japanese engineers have a specific numbering system, which can confuse an inexperienced car owner. The front of the engine (radiator side) contains cylinders 1, 2 and 3, which is the starting point for all diagnostic work.
VQ35DE Engine Configuration and General Diagram
Under the hood Nissan Murano The Z50 generation hides a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated VQ series engine. This is a V-shaped “six” with a camber angle of 60 degrees, which is distinguished by high power and smooth running. Cylinder configuration here is classic for Japanese automakers, but has its own nuances when accessing components.
The entire power plant is divided into two blocks of cylinder heads: left and right. It is important to understand that "left" and "right" in automotive terminology refer to the sides when you are sitting in the car and looking forward. However, when working on the engine, it is often more convenient to focus on the radiator side or the passenger compartment side. Camber angle 60 degrees allows you to make the engine more compact in height, which is critical for the low-profile hood of a crossover.
Access to some components is difficult due to the dense layout of the attachments.
For quality maintenance, it is necessary to remove the plastic decorative covers.
This opens up a view of the top of the cylinders and ignition coils.
- 🔧 The right bank of cylinders (Bank 2) is located closer to the car body.
- ⚙️ The left bank of cylinders (Bank 1) faces the wing and is usually more accessible.
- 🔥 The ignition system includes individual coils for each cylinder.
Detailed cylinder numbering and operating order
The most important information for a mechanic is the correct numbering order. In the engine VQ35DE The numbering starts from the radiator and goes to the passenger compartment. This is a fundamental rule, violation of which will make it impossible to correctly diagnose errors generated by the on-board computer.
The front of the engine is the reference point. The number one cylinder is always in the front corner.
Next in the row are cylinder 2 and cylinder 3, which closes this block.
On the opposite side (right row), the numbering also starts from the front.
The right row (passenger side in left-hand drive versions) is numbered 4, 5 and 6. The left row (driver side) is numbered 1, 2 and 3. Cylinder operating order this engine has a ratio of 1-2-3-4-5-6, which ensures perfectly balanced rotation of the crankshaft.
An error in determining the bank often leads to replacing the wrong candles.
The diagnostic scanner will show an error by a specific number, which you need to know by heart.
Improper spark plug installation can cause misfire and loss of power.
⚠️ Attention: An error in determining the front and rear rows of cylinders may lead to incorrect interpretation of data from oxygen sensors, since they are tied to specific bank groups.
Features of access to cylinders in the Z50 body
Space under the hood Nissan Murano Z50 limited, especially in the rear cylinder area. The left lane (1-2-3) is usually quite accessible if you remove the plastic protection. But the right row (4-5-6) is often hidden behind various pipes, wiring and brackets.
Cylinder number 4 is closest to the radiator, but access to it may be blocked by the expansion tank.
Cylinder number 6 is located in the deepest corner, closest to the windshield.
Changing spark plugs in the rear row often requires the use of extensions and flexible driveshafts.
- 🚫 Do not try to unscrew the spark plugs without a special extension, you may damage fragile parts.
- 💡 Use a soft wrench so as not to break the thread in the block head.
- 🛠️ Remove the decorative engine cover to get maximum visibility.
- Left row (1-2-3)
- Right lane (4-5-6)
- Both rows are equally difficult
- Haven't encountered any problems
Ignition system specifications and maintenance
To maintain performance VQ35DE Spark plugs must be changed regularly. The manufacturer recommends carrying out this procedure every 40,000 - 60,000 kilometers. Using the correct spark plugs is critical to engine performance and fuel economy.
Typical spark plugs for this engine have an iridium electrode.
The tightening torque must be strict: no more than 18-20 Nm.
Over-tightening can lead to the spark plug breaking out during the next replacement.
The ignition coils on this engine are located directly on the spark plugs. They are secured with bolts, which can become sticky over time.
Before removing the coil, you must clean the area around it from dust and dirt.
If the reel does not budge, do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the plastic housing.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine type | VQ35DE (V6, 3.5 l) |
| Cylinder arrangement | V-shape, 60° |
| Operating procedure | 1-2-3-4-5-6 |
| Recommended spark plug tightening torque | 18-20 Nm |
| Spark plug type | Iridium (NGK/Denso) |
☑️ Preparing to replace spark plugs
Diagnosis of misfires by numbers
When the Check Engine Light comes on on your dashboard, the scan tool will often display an error code indicating a specific cylinder is misfiring (such as P0301 or P0304). Code P0301 means misfire in the first cylinder, and P0304 means misfire in the fourth. Knowing the location of the cylinders allows you to quickly localize the problem.
If the code is P0303, the problem is in the left rear cylinder.
If the code is P0306, the problem is in the right rear cylinder, which is more difficult to diagnose.
Often the reason lies not in the cylinder itself, but in the ignition coil or wiring.
⚠️ Attention: Do not change coils and spark plugs “at random” without preliminary diagnostics, as the problem may not be in these parts, but in the compression or fuel system.
When diagnosing, it should be taken into account that engine vibration at idle speed may be a sign of a problem with one of the cylinders.
The spark test on each cylinder must be carried out in compliance with safety precautions.
Use insulated tools to avoid electric shock.
If you are changing spark plugs, be sure to mark the old spark plugs with cylinder numbers (1-6) so that when checking gaps or carbon deposits you will know which cylinder is performing worse than others.
Common problems and their solutions
Owners Nissan Murano Z50 Often faced with the problem of sticking of the ignition coil mounting bolts. This occurs due to high temperature and lack of lubrication on the threads. A broken coil or bolt can lead to serious repair costs.
Use a penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or similar) 10-15 minutes before unscrewing.
Gently rock the reel if it gets stuck, but do not jerk sharply.
When installing new coils, lubricate the bolts with copper grease or graphite.
Another problem is the wear of the valve cover seals, which leads to oil leakage onto the spark plugs.
Oil on the contacts causes breakdowns and unstable engine operation.
Regularly checking the oil level and seal condition will prevent this problem.
- 🔥 Leaking oil on spark plugs is a common cause of P030X errors.
- 💧 Change the valve cover gaskets at every oil change if there are traces of leaks.
- 🔩 Use a torque wrench to tighten the coil bolts.
What to do if the coil bolt breaks?
If a bolt breaks, do not try to drill it out yourself without experience. It is best to use an extractor or contact a professional to avoid damaging the threads in the cylinder head. In the worst case, the head will need to be replaced.
Final recommendations for use
Correct Understanding cylinder arrangement on Nissan Murano Z50 - This is the key to long and reliable engine service. Regular maintenance, timely replacement of consumables and careful attention to diagnostic codes will help avoid costly repairs.
Do not ignore malfunction signals, even if the car is driving normally.
Use only high-quality spare parts recommended by the manufacturer.
Entrust complex work to professional mechanics if you are not confident in your abilities.
Remember: the left row is 1, 2, 3, and the right row is 4, 5, 6. The front is the beginning of the numbering.
Following this simple diagram will save you time and stress during any repair.
A well-maintained VQ35DE engine can last hundreds of thousands of kilometers without serious problems.
⚠️ Attention: When replacing spark plugs, be sure to use a torque wrench. Over-tightening can lead to destruction of the spark plug ceramics or breakage of the threads in the block head, which will require expensive repairs.
Understanding the cylinder layout (1-2-3 on the left, 4-5-6 on the right, numbering from the radiator) is a basic skill for self-service Nissan Murano Z50 and diagnosing engine errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to determine which bank of cylinders is left and which is right?
Focus on the driver's position in the car. The left lane (Bank 1) is on the driver's side, the right lane (Bank 2) is on the passenger's side. The numbering in both rows starts from the radiator to the interior.
What is the cylinder firing order of the Nissan Murano Z50?
The cylinder firing order of the VQ35DE engine is 1-2-3-4-5-6. This ensures balanced operation of the motor and minimizes vibrations.
Is it difficult to change spark plugs in the rear cylinders?
Yes, access to the rear cylinders (3 and 6) is difficult due to attachments and limited space. It is recommended to use special extended wrenches and flexible cardans.
What does error code P0304 mean on Nissan Murano?
Trouble P0304 indicates a misfire in the fourth cylinder. This is the right front cylinder. It is necessary to check the spark plug, ignition coil and fuel supply in this cylinder.
Is it possible to change spark plugs without removing the plastic engine cover?
Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The plastic cover prevents access to most spark plugs and coils. Removing it simplifies work and reduces the risk of damage to adjacent elements.