Exhaust system on a crossover Nissan Murano the second generation (Z50 body) is a complex engineering structure, where each element has its own role. The central link of this chain is the resonator, which is responsible not only for reducing the noise level, but also for stabilizing the pressure in the exhaust system. Owners Nissan Murano Z50 Often faced with the need to repair or modernize this particular unit, since it experiences colossal thermal and vibration loads.
Ignoring symptoms of malfunction can lead to serious engine problems as the engine management system ECU reads data from lambda probes located before and after the catalytic converter. If the resonator does not cope with its task or has a burnout, the sensor readings will be incorrect, which will cause an error P0420 and loss of power. Understanding the operating principle and design features of the exhaust system Murano will help you make an informed decision: whether to repair, completely replace or remove the element.
Design features of the Z50 exhaust system
Exhaust system Nissan Murano Z50 with engines 3.5 V6 (VQ35DE/VQ35HR) designed taking into account the requirements for environmental friendliness and acoustic comfort. The resonator in this model is made of stainless steel, but the thin-walled structure is subject to corrosion from the inside over time, especially under operating conditions in regions with reagents on the roads. The internal partition of the resonator has a complex geometry that dampens certain frequencies of sound waves created by the operation of the cylinders.
It is important to note that this vehicle uses a separate exhaust system design, where the front resonator (if provided) and the main muffler are connected by flexible pipes. This is necessary to compensate for thermal expansion and engine vibrations. When replacing system elements, it is necessary to take into account that the standard standard resonator has specific fastenings that over time stick to the bodywork or to the exhaust pipe.
The condition of the insulation also plays a critical role. On Murano Z50 Heat shields often lose their properties or become deformed, which can lead to heating of nearby plastic body parts. Regular visual inspection of condition exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe and resonator allows you to identify defects at an early stage, before they lead to expensive repairs.
- 🔍 Housing material - high-quality stainless steel, resistant to external influences, but vulnerable to internal corrosion.
- 🔧 Construction - perforated pipes inside a chamber filled with sound-absorbing material, which fades over time.
- ⚙️ Fastenings — rubber cushions, which become tanned and torn over time, causing unnecessary vibrations on the body.
Symptoms of malfunction and diagnosis
The first and most obvious sign of resonator failure is a change in the exhaust sound. If you hear a low-frequency hum, crackling or metallic ringing that intensifies when you press the gas pedal, this is a sure sign that internal partition the housing is damaged or cracked. At idle the sound may be smooth, but under load it becomes harsh and unpleasant to the ears.
The second important symptom is the appearance of vibrations transmitted to the car body and steering wheel. A destroyed resonator ceases to dampen vibrations, which are transmitted to the frame through the exhaust suspension system Nissan Murano. In addition, if the body burns out, you may smell exhaust gases in the cabin or under the hood, which is a direct threat to the health of passengers due to carbon monoxide.
Diagnosis is often complicated by the fact that the hanging elements of the exhaust system may be hidden by dirt or protective screens. It is necessary to lift the car on a lift and carefully inspect all connections. Often the problem lies not in the resonator itself, but in the rupture of the corrugation (flexible pipe), which is located directly in front of or after it. Checking the tightness of the system is carried out by blowing with compressed air or visually observing smoke flows when the engine is running.
⚠️ Attention: If you smell exhaust gases in the cabin, immediately stop using the vehicle and contact a service center. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, but can be deadly even in small concentrations.
- Regularly, at every maintenance
- Only when I hear a noise
- Never checked
- I only replace it when it breaks.
Consequences of removing the resonator: myths and reality
Among the owners Nissan Murano Z50 There is a widespread belief that removing the resonator (decathalization) significantly improves acceleration dynamics and reduces fuel consumption. In fact, for a naturally aspirated engine VQ35 volume 3.5 liters, the effect on power will be minimal and almost unnoticeable in the urban cycle. Removing this element only leads to an increase in noise and a change in the timbre of the exhaust to a rougher and more unpleasant one.
Moreover, removing the resonator disrupts the pressure balancing in the system. Electronic engine control unit ECU calculates mixture formation parameters based on a certain resistance to the exhaust system. With a sharp decrease in this resistance, dips in traction at low speeds and unstable engine operation at idle may occur. There is also an increased risk of catalyst damage due to changes in gas flow rates.
Owners who decide to tune their exhaust system often face legal and environmental problems. In most countries, the removal of elements of the cleaning and noise reduction system is prohibited by law. A vehicle with a removed resonator and catalyst can only pass a technical inspection if there are special software modifications that deceive the oxygen sensors.
- 📉 Dynamics — the increase in power is less than 1-2%, which cannot be felt in normal driving.
- 🔊 Noise — the noise level increases 2-3 times, which creates discomfort for the driver and others.
- ⚖️ Law — operating a vehicle with an uncertified exhaust system may result in fines and a driving ban.
Technical nuances of installing a direct-flow system
When installing a direct-flow system, it is necessary not only to physically replace the resonator, but also to reflash the computer, otherwise the lambda probe sensor errors will be constantly on. You will also need to install sports catalysts to maintain environmental friendliness.
Replacement process and selection of spare parts
Replacing the resonator with Nissan Murano Z50 - a procedure that requires certain skills and equipment. Before starting work, it is necessary to warm up the exhaust system so that the threaded connections and bolts become more pliable, but at the same time cool the engine to a safe temperature to avoid burns. It is recommended to use a penetrating lubricant to treat fastening points that often become stuck over years of use.
When choosing a new part, it is important to decide on the type of product. Original spare parts are available on the market Nissan, which guarantee compliance with factory specifications, but are quite expensive. The alternative is high-quality analogues from trusted exhaust system manufacturers, which often offer improved materials and thicker walls. There is also the option of making a resonator in artisanal conditions, but this approach carries the risks of poor welding quality and inconsistency of geometry.
The replacement process includes unscrewing the clamps, removing the old rubber hangers and installing a new element. It is important to correctly set the gaps between the system elements to prevent contact of the exhaust pipe with the body or other units. After installation, it is necessary to check the tightness of the connections and the absence of extraneous noise at different engine operating modes.
☑️ Preparation for replacing the resonator
Repair options comparison table
For clarity, let’s compare the main options for action in the event of a resonator malfunction. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account when making a decision. The choice depends on your budget, noise requirements and plans for further operation of the car.
| Option | Cost | Efficiency | Service life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original resonator | High | Excellent | Long (5+ years) |
| High-quality analogue | Average | good | Intermediate (3-4 years) |
| Cooking (repair) | Low | Weak | Short-term (6-12 months) |
| Removal | Minimum | Low (noise) | Eternal (until burnout) |
It is worth noting that trying to weld a burnt-out resonator often gives only a temporary effect. Due to high temperatures and vibrations, the seam quickly cracks and the problem returns. Moreover, welding thin-walled stainless steel requires special equipment and skills, otherwise the material may burn out even faster around the repair site.
Before purchasing a new resonator, be sure to measure the diameter of the pipes and the distance between the mounting points. For different years of manufacture Murano Z50 These parameters may vary slightly.
Impact on the environment and engine performance
The resonator, although not directly involved in the chemical purification of gases, like a catalyst, plays an important role in stabilizing the flow. Violation of the geometry of the exhaust system leads to turbulence, which prevents oxygen sensors from accurately determining the composition of the mixture. This can cause the mixture to be over-rich or over-lean, which entails increased fuel consumption and increased emissions of harmful substances.
On the engine VQ35DE with variable valve timing system CVTCS Correct operation of the exhaust system is critical. A faulty resonator can lead to system malfunctions, which will affect the smoothness of gear shifting (in a CVT) and the overall responsiveness of the gas pedal. The electronics try to compensate for errors, but this is not always possible without physically correcting the problem.
It is important to understand that modern environmental standards require a car to strictly comply with the standards. Installing a substandard or removed resonator may cause the vehicle to fail emissions testing. In addition, the indicators on the instrument panel may come on Check Engine and Service Engine Soon, requiring complex diagnostics.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to fool the oxygen sensors using mechanical spacers or “cheats” without flashing the ECU. This will lead to incorrect engine operation and failure of expensive injection system components.
Care and prevention
To extend the life of the exhaust system, including the resonator, you must follow simple operating rules. Regular washing of the underbody of the car in winter helps remove aggressive reagents that accelerate metal corrosion. You should also avoid sudden changes in temperature, such as driving into deep snow immediately after a long trip at high speed, as this can lead to deformation of hot elements.
When the first signs of noise or vibration appear, do not delay your visit for diagnostics. Early detection of the problem will allow you to avoid replacing other system components, such as the catalyst or downpipe, which are much more expensive to repair. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the rubber suspensions, since their wear creates additional stress on the welds of the resonator.
If you live in a harsh climate, consider installing an additional heat shield or applying an anti-corrosion compound to the exterior of the exhaust system. This may seem like overkill, but in practice such measures significantly increase the service life of the metal and preserve the aesthetic appearance of the car when lifted onto a lift.
- 🛡️ Anticorrosive — treating the bottom and exhaust elements with special compounds slows down the rusting process.
- 🧹 Purity — regular removal of dirt and snow from under the bottom prevents the accumulation of aggressive substances.
- 🔩 Control — checking the tightening of clamps and the condition of the suspensions at each scheduled maintenance.
Regular diagnostics and timely replacement of worn-out exhaust system elements are the key to long engine life and comfort in the cabin. Nissan Murano Z50.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace a resonator on a Nissan Murano Z50?
Replacement costs vary depending on the part selected and the cost of labor. An original resonator costs from 15,000 to 25,000 rubles, analogues cost from 5,000 to 10,000 rubles. Replacement work usually costs 2,000 - 4,000 rubles.
Is it possible to drive a Nissan Murano without a resonator?
Technically it is possible to drive, but it is not recommended. The noise level will be unacceptably high, there may be an exhaust smell in the cabin, as well as engine errors due to incorrect sensor readings. Additionally, it may be illegal.
How long does the resonator last on this car?
Under normal operating conditions, a standard resonator lasts from 5 to 8 years. The period depends on the quality of the road, climatic conditions and fuel quality. Internal corrosion is the main cause of failure.
Do I need to change both resonators at once?
If you have a double resonator installed (front and rear), it is not necessary to change them immediately if the second one is in good condition. However, when replacing, it is better to check the condition of both elements to avoid repeated repairs after a short time.
Does removing the resonator affect fuel consumption?
Direct influence is minimal. Fuel savings can be 0.1-0.3 liters per 100 km, but this is offset by the risk of catalyst failure and other negative consequences for engine operation.