Owners Nissan Murano Z52 (2015–2022) are often faced with a dilemma: how to make a crossover unique without losing reliability and comfort? This is the generation released on the platform Nissan D, combines a spacious interior, all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS and 3.5 liter engine VQ35DE 260 hp - an excellent base for modifications. However, tuning Murano Z52 requires a balanced approach: errors in the selection of parts or settings can lead to problems with electronics, suspension or even warranty.
In this article we will look at 10 tuning directions - from cosmetic changes to serious technical improvements, - and we will also tell you what modifications incompatible with the system ProPILOT Assist (if installed) and how to avoid common mistakes. All recommendations are based on the experience of owners and service technicians working with Murano Z52 in Russia and the CIS.
1. External tuning: from vinyl stickers to body kits
Let's start with the most noticeable thing - appearance. Nissan Murano Z52 has a memorable design with a “floating” roof and an aggressive front end, but even this could become brighter. Popular destinations:
- 🎨 Vinyl wrap - from matte and glossy colors to “chameleon” or carbon texture. Cost of full wrapping: from 80,000 to 150,000 rubles.
- 🔥 Body kits and splitters - for example, front spoiler from Stillen or rear diffuser from ARI. Important: some body kits require modifications to the bumper.
- 💡 LED optics - replacing standard lamps with LED or installing “angel eyes” in the headlights. Please note: not all LED lamps are certified for vehicle inspection.
- 🖌️ Window tinting and armoring - popular tinting is “chameleon” (changes shade depending on the lighting) or armored film LLumar.
Warning: when installing body kits, check compatibility with all-round viewing system Around View Monitor. Some splitters may block cameras, which will result in an error message on the dashboard.
- Vinyl wrap
- Body kits and spoilers
- LED optics
- Window tinting
- Another option
2. Tuning wheels and suspension: what to choose for comfort and style
Wheels and suspension are not only about aesthetics, but also about handling. Standard wheels Murano Z52 — 18" or 20" (depending on the configuration), but many owners tend to install wider or lighter options.
| Tuning type | Examples | Cost (₽) | Effect on comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alloy wheels | BBS CH-R, Enkei PF05 | 50,000–120,000 per set | Improves acceleration, but may degrade ride quality |
| Low profile tires | Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (245/45 R20) | 30,000–50,000 per piece | Better handling, but risk of damage to discs in pits |
| Springs or air suspension | H&R, Air Lift | 30 000–200 000 | Pneuma allows you to adjust the ground clearance |
Important nuance: when installing disks wider 245 mm It may be necessary to roll out the arches or install spacers. Also note that Murano Z52 sensitive to changes in offset (ET): deviation more than ±5 mm from standard (ET40) impairs controllability.
⚠️ Attention: If your Murano equipped with a system ProPILOT Assist, then a change in clearance by more than 20 mm can lead to malfunctions of radars and cameras. Before installing air suspension, consult a diagnostician!
Check disk compatibility by parameters PCD 5×114.3 And DIA 66.1
Measure the clearance between the tire and the arch with the steering wheel turned fully
Make sure that the new discs do not touch the calipers (especially important for 20" options)
Check the balancing on the 3D stand-->
3. Chip tuning and increasing power: risks and opportunities
Engine VQ35DE in Murano Z52 known for its reliability, but many owners want more power. Options:
- 🔧 ECU firmware - for example, from ECU-Tek or RaceChip. Gain: up to 30–40 hp Cost: 25,000–40,000 rubles.
- 💨 Turbo kit installation - a complex and expensive procedure (from 300,000 ₽), but allows you to get up to 400 hp. Requires transmission reinforcement.
- ⚡ Intake manifold and throttle body - for example, from Stillen or Injen. Improves response to the gas pedal.
- 🔥 Exhaust system — forward flow or “spider” 4-2-1. Popular systems Borla or MagnaFlow.
Critical points:
- After chip tuning, be sure to check condition of catalysts - increased power can destroy them.
- Turbokits require transmission reinforcement Jatco JR710E, otherwise it will not withstand the torque.
- The firmware may disable eco modes and increase fuel consumption by 1–2 liters.
What happens if you flash the ECU incorrectly?
Poor quality firmware can lead to:
- Floating speed at idle
- Engine overheating due to incorrect ignition angles
- System failure VDC (stability control)
- Loss of warranty (if the car is being serviced)
If you decide to do chip tuning, choose trusted workshops with a dynamometer. For example, in Moscow such services are provided ChipTuning Pro or DT-Racing.
4. Interior tuning: comfort and technology
Salon Murano Z52 It's already spacious and well-finished, but it could be made even better. Popular improvements:
- 🎵 Audio system - replacing the standard radio with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (For example, Pioneer AVH-Z9200DAB) or installing a subwoofer.
- 🪑 Seats - sports seats from Recaro or Sparco, or covered with leather with perforation.
- 🔄 Heating and ventilation — retrofitting heated rear seats or installing climate control for the second row.
- 💡 Backlight — LED strips under the dashboard or in the doors controlled via a smartphone (for example, Philips Hue).
Advice: When replacing the radio, keep the original climate control unit (HVAC), otherwise you will lose control of dual zone climate control.
If you install a subwoofer, place it in the trunk on the right - there less vibration is transmitted to the body and does not interfere with the system ProPILOT (its sensors are located on the left).
5. Tuning transmission and all-wheel drive
Murano Z52 equipped with all-wheel drive ATTESA E-TS with electronic control and variator Jatco JR710E. These nodes can be improved:
- 🔗 Differential lock - for example, installing a self-block from Cusco for better off-road traction.
- ⚙️ CVT firmware — changes the switching logic, making acceleration sharper. Cost: 15,000–25,000 rubles.
- 🛢️ Changing the oil in the variator - use only NS-3 (original
KE909-99932). Interval: every 60,000 km. - 🔧 Reinforced axle shafts - relevant when increasing power over 300 hp.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan to drive off-road, avoid downshifting - it is not available Murano Z52, and forced differential locking may damage the variator.
Use a scanner to check the condition of the variator Launch X431 or Autel MaxiCOM. Errors P0776 or P0841 indicate wear on the belt or solenoids.
6. Off-road tuning: what you can do with the Murano Z52
Despite the fact that Murano Z52 - This is a SUV, it can be adapted for light off-road use. The main thing is not to overdo it:
- 🏔️ Crankcase and transmission protection - for example, from RCI Metalworks or C4x4.
- 🚙 Off-road tires — BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 or Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015.
- 🔧 Raising ground clearance — using spacers for springs (up to 30 mm). Lifting further is not recommended due to the risk of damaging the axle shafts.
- 💡 Additional lighting — LED spotlights Rigid Industries on the bumper or roof.
Limitations:
Murano Z52 It does not have a frame structure, so serious off-road driving is contraindicated for it. Also avoid deep fords - the air intake is low and there is a risk of water hammer.
For off-road use, crankcase protection, off-road tires and a slight rise in ground clearance are sufficient. More serious modifications will require modifications to the suspension and transmission, which is not economically feasible.
7. Electronics and gadgets: modern solutions for Murano Z52
Modern technologies make it possible to add Murano Z52 functions that are not available even in top trim levels:
- 📱 Wireless charging - for example, module Scosche MagicMount into the armrest.
- 🚗 360 degree camera — if it is not included in the basic configuration, you can install it additionally Boyo VTI720.
- 🔊 Tire pressure monitoring system — sensors TPMS from Orange or FOBO.
- 🔋 Extra battery - to power a refrigerator or audio system (for example, Optima YellowTop).
When installing electronics, pay attention to compatibility with CAN bus car. For example, some Chinese gadgets may cause errors in the system NissanConnect.
8. Typical mistakes when tuning Murano Z52 and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners make mistakes. Here are the most common:
- Ignoring wheel balancing — after installing new discs, be sure to do 3D balancing, otherwise vibration will appear at speeds above 120 km/h.
- Saving on ECU firmware — cheap “Chinese” firmware can damage the catalysts or turbine (if installed).
- Failure to comply with tightening torques - for example, when replacing the suspension, use a torque wrench (torque for the levers:
100–120 Nm). - Installing springs that are too stiff - this degrades the performance of the system ProPILOT, since the sensors focus on smooth running.
If you doubt your abilities, contact specialized workshops. For example, in St. Petersburg tuning Murano Z52 is engaged Nissan-Tuning SPb, and in Yekaterinburg - JDM Garage.
Before any modifications, do a vehicle diagnostic. Errors in the system VDC or ABS may worsen after tuning.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about tuning Nissan Murano Z52
Is it possible to install a turbine on a naturally aspirated VQ35DE engine?
Technically yes, but this requires a complete redesign of the power supply, cooling and transmission systems. The cost of such a project is from 500,000 rubles, and the engine life will be reduced to 100,000–150,000 km. Alternative - compressor Magnuson, which is less aggressive to the engine.
How much ground clearance can be made on the Murano Z52 without harming the suspension?
Maximum safe lift - 30 mm (using spacers or springs) H&R). More - the risk of damage to CV joints and axle shafts. For off-road use, it is better to choose tires with a high profile (for example, 235/65 R18).
Will the reliability of the variator decrease after chip tuning?
Yes, if you don't strengthen it. After flashing the ECU to increase power, it is recommended:
- Install an additional variator cooling radiator.
- Change the oil more often (every 40,000 km).
- Avoid sudden starts from a standing start.
What wheels are suitable for the Murano Z52 without modifications?
Standard parameters: PCD 5×114.3, DIA 66.1, departure ET40. You can install discs from Infiniti QX60 (same generation) or Nissan Pathfinder R52 without modifications. Example of compatible models: Enkei PF07 (18×8.0) or Konig Hypergram (20×8.5).
Is it possible to disable the ProPILOT system after tuning?
You can physically disable it, but this will lead to errors on the dashboard and may affect operation ABS And VDC. It is better to adapt tuning to the system: for example, use air suspension while maintaining the standard ground clearance in ProPILOT.