Thermostat in Nissan Murano - a small but critical part of the cooling system, on which the stability of the engine depends. When it fails, the consequences can range from increased fuel consumption to engine overheating and serious breakdowns. Owners Murano first (Z50, 2003–2007) and second (Z51, 2008–2014) generations often encounter thermostat problems after 100–150 thousand km, and in some cases the part “dies” already by 80 thousand km.

In this article we will look at how recognize a thermostat malfunction by indirect evidence, which error codes may indicate a problem, and how replace the part yourself without contacting the service. We will also compare original spare parts with analogues and evaluate the complexity of work for different engines (VQ35DE, VQ25DE) and give recommendations on the choice of antifreeze after replacement. If your Murano takes a long time to warm up or, conversely, overheats - this instruction will help you save on diagnostics and repairs.

How does a thermostat work? Nissan Murano and why does it break?

The thermostat is valve with temperature sensing element, which regulates the circulation of coolant in the system. When cold, it is closed and the antifreeze moves through small circle (only through the cylinder block), accelerating engine warm-up. When operating temperature is reached (usually 82–95°C depending on the model), the valve opens and the liquid begins to circulate through big circle (via the radiator), preventing overheating.

B Murano thermostats are used wax filler: When heated, the wax expands, presses on the stem and opens the valve. Over time, this mechanism wears out due to:

  • 🔥 Engine overheating — leads to deformation of the body or jamming of the valve.
  • ❄️ Using low-quality antifreeze — aggressive additives corrode seals.
  • ⏳ Natural aging — the wax loses its properties, the spring weakens (the service life of the original thermostat is 100–150 thousand km).
  • 🛠️ Mechanical damage - for example, when replacing a pump or radiator carelessly.

On Murano Z50/Z51 The thermostat is located in aluminum housing at the outlet of the cylinder head, next to the pump. In some configurations (for example, with VQ35DE) it is integrated into a single unit with a temperature sensor, which makes replacement difficult. On models with VQ25DE (2.5 l) design is simpler, but less common.

⚠️ Attention: If the thermostat is stuck in open position, the engine will take a long time to warm up, especially in winter. If stuck in closed — the risk of overheating and deformation of the cylinder head increases significantly. In both cases, you cannot drive with a malfunction!

Signs of a faulty thermostat: how to recognize the problem

Symptoms of a broken thermostat Murano often confused with malfunctions of the pump, radiator or temperature sensor. To accurately identify the problem, look for the following symptoms:

Symptom Probable Cause Additional check
The engine takes a long time to warm up (more than 10 minutes at -10°C) Thermostat valve stuck open Check the temperature of the radiator pipes (both should be cold when warmed up)
Engine overheating (temperature arrow in the red zone) Valve stuck closed Check the operation of the cooling fan and the antifreeze level
The temperature fluctuates (it rises and then falls) Unstable valve operation (partial jamming) Replace thermostat - cannot be repaired
Cold air from the heater when the engine is warm Antifreeze circulates only in a small circle Check the hoses on the radiator (one is hot, the other is cold)

For accurate diagnosis, you can use diagnostic scanner (For example, Launch CReader or ELM327). Thermostat related error codes:

  • 🔧 P0128 — the coolant temperature is below normal (the valve is constantly open).
  • 🔥 P0126 — insufficient engine warming up (possible antifreeze leak or thermostat malfunction).
  • ⚠️ P0117 — low temperature sensor signal (may indicate a problem with the thermostat or sensor).

If you don't have a scanner, check manual check:

  1. Start the cold engine and touch the upper radiator hose - it should remain cold for the first 5-7 minutes.
  2. After warming up (temperature arrow in the middle of the scale), the pipe should become hot. If not, the thermostat does not open.
  3. If the pipe is hot from the very beginning, the valve is stuck in the open position.
📊 What symptom of a thermostat malfunction have you encountered?
  • The engine takes a long time to warm up
  • Motor overheating
  • Temperature jumps
  • Cold stove
  • No problem

Selecting a thermostat for Nissan Murano: original vs analogues

On Murano Z50/Z51 thermostats with opening temperature are installed 82°C (for most markets) or 88°C (for hot regions). Original parts are produced by the company Nissan under the articles:

  • 🔹 21200-4M500 - for VQ35DE (3.5 L, 2003–2014).
  • 🔹 21200-4M505 - for VQ25DE (2.5 l, rarely found on the European market).

The cost of the original thermostat is from 3,500 to 5,000 rubles (for 2026). However, many owners choose analogues from trusted brands, which are 30–50% cheaper:

Brand Article Opening temperature Price, rub. Features
Gates TH21216G1 82°C 1 800–2 200 High quality wax element, stainless steel body
Mahle TH 30 82D 82°C 2 000–2 500 Original supplier for many car manufacturers
Vernet TH6382.82 82°C 1 500–1 900 Budget option, but the quality is lower than the original
Nipparts NTH-6382 82°C 1 700–2 100 Good price/quality ratio, popular in Russia

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to:

  • 📌 Opening temperature - must match the original (82°C or 88°C).
  • 📌 Housing material - aluminum or stainless steel (plastic cracks quickly).
  • 📌 Availability of sealing gasket — complete with thermostat or separately (article no. 21216-4M500 for Murano).
⚠️ Attention: Cheap thermostats without a brand (for example, from AliExpress) often have unstable response temperature (may differ by ±5°C). This leads to improper operation of the cooling system and increased engine wear.
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Before purchasing, check to see if the thermostat comes with a new gasket. If not, buy it separately (cost ~300–500 rubles), since the old one usually breaks when dismantled.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the thermostat with Nissan Murano

Replacing the thermostat with Murano - an operation of medium complexity. The service asks for it 3,000–5,000 rubles, but if you have the tools and free time (1.5–2 hours), you can do it yourself. Below are instructions for VQ35DE (3.5 l), which is also suitable for VQ25DE adjusted for the location of the pipes.

Required tools and materials:

  • 🔧 Set of sockets and ratchet wrench (sizes: 10 mm, 12 mm).
  • 🔧 Screwdriver with flat and cross blade.
  • 🔧 Pliers or pliers.
  • 🔧 Sealant for gaskets (for example, Loctite 574 or ABRO 11-AB).
  • 🔧 New thermostat with gasket.
  • 🔧 Antifreeze (5–6 l, original Nissan L255N or analogues CoolStream A-110, Sintec Unlimited G12++).
  • 🔧 Container for draining old antifreeze (5-6 l).
  • 🔧 Rags and gloves.

Sequence of work:

Drain the antifreeze (through the plug on the radiator or pipe)|Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery|Remove the air duct and air filter housing|Disconnect the pipes from the thermostat (you may need to loosen the clamps)|Unscrew the bolts securing the thermostat housing (3 pcs.)-->

  1. Antifreeze drain. Place a container under the radiator, unscrew the drain plug (lower left corner of the radiator) or remove the lower pipe. On Murano with automatic transmission, be careful - the automatic transmission radiator is located under the engine cooling radiator, it can be easily damaged!
  2. Removing the air duct. Remove the air filter housing (4 x 10mm bolts) and move it to the side. This will give access to the thermostat.
  3. Disconnecting pipes. Loosen the clamps on the two pipes (upper and lower) going to the thermostat. Be prepared for the remaining antifreeze to leak out of them.
  4. Removing the thermostat. Unscrew the 3 bolts securing the thermostat housing (12 mm head). Carefully pry the housing with a screwdriver - it may “stick” to the block. Remove the old thermostat and clean the seat from any remaining gasket.
  5. Installing a new thermostat. Check that the new thermostat opens when heated (you can put it in hot water - the valve should work at ~82°C). Apply a thin layer of sealant to the gasket and install the thermostat into the housing.
  6. Assembly. Tighten the fastening bolts (tightening torque - 10–12 Nm), connect the pipes and tighten the clamps. Reinstall the air duct and filter housing.
  7. Refilling antifreeze. Fill in new antifreeze through the expansion tank. Start the engine, warm up to operating temperature and add fluid if necessary. Important: Check for air pockets (with the engine running, squeeze the upper radiator hose several times).

After replacement be sure to check:

  • 🔹 No leakage from under the thermostat gasket.
  • 🔹 The stove is working (hot air should be blowing).
  • 🔹 Temperature readings on the dashboard (the arrow should remain stably in the middle of the scale).
What should I do if the engine overheats after replacing the thermostat?

If the temperature arrow goes into the red zone again, check:

1. **Antifreeze level** - there may be an air lock remaining.

2. **Operation of the cooling fan** - it should turn on at ~95°C.

3. **Integrity of pipes** - cracks or poorly tightened clamps lead to air leaks.

4. **Temperature sensor** - if it is faulty, the ECU will not turn on the fan.

If the problem persists, contact a diagnostician to check the pump or radiator.

Common mistakes when replacing a thermostat and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns or antifreeze leaks. Here are the most common of them:

  1. Using an old gasket. The rubber gasket loses elasticity after dismantling and begins to leak antifreeze. Always install a new gasket, even if the old one “seems to be intact.”
  2. Retightening the thermostat housing bolts. The aluminum body may crack and the threads in the cylinder block may break. Use a torque wrench (tightening torque - 10–12 Nm).
  3. They forget to bleed air from the system. An air lock leads to unstable operation of the stove and false readings from the temperature sensor. After replacement squeeze the radiator pipes several times with the engine running.
  4. Mixing different types of antifreeze. On Murano factory recommended antifreeze Nissan L255N (green, ethylene glycol based). Mixing with other types (eg G11 or G13) may cause sedimentation and clogged ducts.
  5. Failure to test the new thermostat before installation. Defective parts (especially cheap analogues) may not open or open at the wrong temperature. Check valve operation in hot water (it should work at ~82°C).
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the thermostat the engine still overheats and the radiator pipes are cold, the problem may be faulty pump (coolant pump). On Murano with VQ35DE the pump often fails after 150 thousand km and requires replacement along with the timing belt.

How much does it cost to replace a thermostat at a service center and when to contact a professional?

If you are not confident in your abilities or do not have time for independent repairs, you can contact the service. The cost of replacing the thermostat with Nissan Murano varies depending on the region and service station level:

Service type Cost of work, rub. Cost of spare parts, rub. Total, rub.
Official dealer Nissan 4 500–6 000 5,000–7,000 (original) 9 500–13 000
Specialized service for Nissan 3 000–4 500 2,000–4,000 (analog) 5 000–8 500
Universal car service 2 500–3 500 1,500–3,000 (analog) 4 000–6 500
Garage foreman 1 500–2 500 1 500–2 500 3 000–5 000

It is advisable to contact the service in the following cases:

  • 🔧 If you have Murano with VQ35DE and the thermostat is integrated with a temperature sensor - the ECU requires flashing after replacement.
  • 🔧 If the thermostat housing mounting bolt breaks during dismantling, drilling and cutting of a new thread will be required.
  • 🔧 If you need to change the pump along with the thermostat (on runs over 150 thousand km, it is recommended to do this comprehensively).

Independent replacement is justified if:

  • 🔹 You have experience working with a car (for example, you have already changed spark plugs or filters).
  • 🔹 You use high-quality spare parts (original or proven analogues).
  • 🔹 In your region, prices for work are high (for example, in Moscow or St. Petersburg).
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Savings on replacing the thermostat during service can result in additional expenses if the technician makes a mistake (for example, overtightens the bolts or forgets to bleed the air). If in doubt, it is better to pay professionals.

Prevention: how to extend the life of a thermostat by Nissan Murano

The service life of the thermostat depends not only on mileage, but also on operating conditions. By following simple recommendations, you can delay its replacement by 50–80 thousand km:

  1. Use quality antifreeze. On Murano recommended Nissan L255N (green) or its analogues (CoolStream A-110, Sintec Unlimited G12++). Antifreeze needs to be changed every 5 years or 100 thousand km (whichever comes first).
  2. Check the coolant level. A drop in level below the minimum level leads to overheating and accelerated wear of the thermostat. Check the expansion tank every 2-3 weeks.
  3. Avoid sudden temperature changes. For example, do not pour cold water into an overheated engine - this may distort the thermostat housing.
  4. Monitor the condition of the radiator. Clogged honeycombs or a faulty cooling fan cause the thermostat to work in extreme mode.
  5. Check the pipes periodically. Cracks or loose clamps lead to air leaks and unstable operation of the cooling system.

Also useful flush the cooling system once a year. To do this, you can use special washes (for example, LIQUI MOLY Kuhler-Reiniger) or folk remedies (citric acid, but in strict proportion - 100 g per 5 liters of water). Washing algorithm:

  1. Drain old antifreeze.
  2. Pour in the flushing solution and let the engine run for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Drain the solution and rinse the system with distilled water.
  4. Fill with new antifreeze.
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If you often drive in traffic jams or off-road, install an additional electric fan on the radiator. This will reduce the load on the thermostat and extend its life.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the thermostat Nissan Murano

Is it possible to drive with a faulty thermostat?

If the thermostat is stuck in open position, you can drive, but the engine will take a long time to warm up, which will increase fuel consumption and engine wear. If the thermostat is stuck in closed position - ride it's impossible, since the risk of overheating and deformation of the cylinder head is very high.

Which thermostat is best to choose for Murano Z51 (2008–2014)?

For Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE optimal options:

  • Original — 21200-4M500 (the most reliable, but expensive).
  • Analogue — Gates TH21216G1 or Mahle TH 30 82D (good price/quality ratio).

For VQ25DE (2.5 l) suitable 21200-4M505.

Do I need to change antifreeze after replacing the thermostat?

Yes, necessarily. When old antifreeze is drained, up to 1–1.5 liters of liquid remains in the system, which may be contaminated or have lost its properties. In addition, when replacing a thermostat, air often gets in, and fresh antifreeze will help prevent blockages from forming.

Can the thermostat be repaired or is it just a replacement?

Thermostat - non-repairable part. Its body can be repaired (for example, by soldering a crack), but the wax element and valve wear out over time, and it is impossible to restore their functionality. The only option is to replace it with a new one.

How long does it take to replace a thermostat? Murano?

In the service - 1–1.5 hours. When replacing yourself (especially for the first time) - 2–3 hours, since it will take time to drain the antifreeze, dismantle the air duct and check the system for leaks.