Automatic transmission is one of the most complex and expensive components in the design Nissan Murano. Operation of this crossover requires special attention to the condition of the torque converter and planetary gears. Many owners mistakenly believe that the fluid in the box is filled for its entire service life, but this is a myth that can lead to expensive repairs.
Timely replacement of automatic transmission oil allows you to extend the life of the unit, ensure smooth gear shifting and maintain the dynamics of the car. If you notice jerks, delays when switching, or the appearance of extraneous noise, this is a direct signal that you need to check the level and condition of the working fluid.
Depending on the year of manufacture and generation of the model, Nissan Murano can be equipped with various versions of CVTs or classic hydromechanical automatic transmissions. In this article, we'll go into detail about the transmission maintenance process that applies to most models, including the Z50 and Z51, so you can avoid critical maintenance mistakes.
Change intervals and choosing the right fluid
Official documentation Nissan often indicates that the transmission fluid is filled for the entire service life of the vehicle. However, the actual service life under Russian road conditions is radically different from laboratory tests. Dirt, temperature changes and traffic jams place extreme stress on transmission components, accelerating oil degradation.
For Nissan Murano with a classic automatic transmission (for example, model RE5R05A in the first generations), it is recommended to reduce the complete replacement interval to 40,000 - 60,000 kilometers. Variable transmissions (CVT) installed on later models require even more careful attention. The fluid in them loses its properties faster due to friction of the chain drive or belt on the pulleys.
It is critical to use only certified fluids. Original fluid is suitable for Nissan automatic transmissions NS-2 or NS-3, depending on the type of transmission. The use of analogues or mixtures of different types can lead to incorrect operation of the solenoids and blocking of the torque converter.
- 🔴 Original liquid Nissan Matic S or Matic J for older models.
- 🔵 Specialized liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 for first generation CVTs.
- 🟢 Modern liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 for new crossovers with enhanced transmission.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to mix liquids of different specifications, for example, NS-2 and NS-3. This can cause a chemical reaction leading to destruction of the seals and valve body failure.
When choosing analogues, make sure that they have the official approval of the manufacturer. Cheap substitutes often cannot withstand the high temperature operating conditions of the transmission, which leads to the rapid formation of soot and deposits inside the system.
- Every 30,000 km
- Every 60,000 km
- Only in case of breakdown
- Never changed
Preparation for the procedure and necessary tools
Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and the entire set of tools. The process of changing the oil in the box Nissan Murano requires access to the bottom of the car, so the presence of an inspection hole or lift is a prerequisite. You will also need a jack and reliable supports for safety.
You will need a special kit for working with transmission fluids. This could be a funnel with a long hose, a syringe for pumping out oil, or a special pump for refilling. Do not forget to prepare a container for draining the waste liquid, the volume of which must be at least 10 liters.
Access to drain and fill holes often requires the use of a torque wrench and socket set. The bolts have a specific thread and require precise tightening torque. Failure to do so may result in thread failure or oil leakage in the future.
- 🛠️ Torque wrench for precise tightening of pallet bolts.
- 🧽 Rags and carburetor cleaner for washing the pan and magnets.
- 🧤 Protective gloves and glasses for working with chemicals.
- 🔧 A set of keys and sockets, including specific ones for Nissan.
☑️ Preparing for an oil change
It is also important to check the presence of a fine filter. On many models Nissan Murano the filter is changed separately from the pan, while on others it is part of the pan structure. This significantly affects the amount of work and the cost of maintenance.
What to do if there is no hole?
If you don't have access to a hole or a lift, you can use a jack and secure stands. However, working from under the machine on stands is less convenient and safe. Be sure to make sure the vehicle is stable before starting work.
Step-by-step instructions for partial and complete replacement
The oil change procedure can be performed in two ways: partial replacement (topping up and draining through the plug) and complete replacement (with flushing the system). Partial replacement is more affordable and simple to perform, but allows you to update only about 40-50% of the fluid volume. A complete replacement often requires special equipment or repeated draining and refilling procedures.
First you need to warm up the engine and gearbox to operating temperature. This will allow the oil to become thinner and drain completely from the system. Turn off the engine and park the car on a level surface. Open the hood and find the oil level dipstick (if provided by the design) or the inspection plug.
Go under the car and locate the drain plug on the transmission pan. Place the container and carefully unscrew the cap. Be prepared for a hot stream of oil to pour out. Allow the liquid to drain completely, this may take 15 to 30 minutes.
After draining, unscrew the bolts securing the pan and carefully remove it. Inside you will see magnets that collect metal shavings. Clean the magnets and the tray itself from dirt and deposits. If the filter is built into the pan, replace it with a new one. Install a new pan gasket and return it to its place, observing the tightening torque of the bolts.
Fill in new oil through the filler hole or dipstick. Use a funnel with a hose to get to the desired point. The volume of liquid poured must correspond to the level specified in the technical documentation. For Nissan Murano this is usually from 7 to 11 liters depending on the type of transmission.
Затяжка сливной пробки: 25-30 Нм
Затяжка болтов поддона: 6-8 Нм
When adding oil, use a long flexible tube to avoid spilling fluid onto hot engine parts and the exhaust system.
Checking the level and adapting the gearbox
After filling the oil, you need to check its level with the engine running. This is a critically important stage, since the oil level in the automatic transmission depends on the temperature and pressure in the system. Start the engine and let it idle.
Move the gear selector to all positions in turn, holding each position for a few seconds. This is necessary to fill the torque converter and oil channels with new fluid. Return the selector to position P or N.
Open the hood and check the level using the dipstick (if there is one) or through the inspection hole at the bottom. The level must be in the range between the marks Hot and Cold when the box is warm. If the level is low, add fluid to the required level. If the level is too high, drain the excess as this may cause the oil to foam and overheat.
- 🚗 Warm the box to a temperature of 50-60 degrees Celsius.
- ⚙️ Switch all transmission modes to bleed the system.
- 📏 Check the level through the inspection hole with the engine running.
⚠️ Attention: If the oil level is too high, excess oil may be squeezed out through the breather or cause cavitation, which will lead to pump failure and overheating of the box.
On some models Nissan Murano After changing the oil, an adaptation procedure is required. This is the process of teaching the transmission control unit new fluid characteristics. Without adaptation, shifts may be harsh or unclear.
Checking the oil level must be carried out strictly with the transmission warm and the engine running, otherwise the readings will be incorrect.
Typical mistakes and consequences of ignoring maintenance
Many owners Nissan Murano They make the mistake of trying to save money on oil changes, relying on the “forever” service life declared by the manufacturer. This leads to the accumulation of wear products in the valve body and solenoids. As a result, gear changes become jerky, and the box begins to kick during acceleration.
Another common mistake is using the wrong fluid. Fluid for CVT variators has completely different physical and chemical properties compared to ATF for classic automatic transmissions. If such fluid gets into the torque converter, it can lead to destruction of the clutches and failure of the entire transmission.
Ignoring filter replacement also leads to problems. A clogged filter reduces oil pressure in the system, which causes friction discs to slip and overheat. This is especially true for Nissan Murano with their powerful engines that place a high load on the transmission.
| Problem type | Cause | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jerks when switching | Old, oxidized oil | Friction wear | Complete oil and filter change |
| Noise and hum | Low oil level | Air in the system | Adding oil to the level |
| Automatic transmission overheating | Clogged cooling radiator | Valve block failure | Radiator flushing |
| Gears won't turn on | Solenoid failure | Complete transmission failure | Solenoid replacement and adaptation |
Gearbox repair Nissan Murano can be very expensive, often exceeding the cost of the car itself. A simple and timely oil change allows you to avoid these financial losses and keep your car in good condition for many years.
How to distinguish old oil from new?
Old oil has a dark, almost black color and a burning smell. New oil is clear, red or greenish in color (depending on the type) and has a slight chemical smell.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions from Nissan Murano owners
How much oil is needed for a complete change in Nissan Murano?
The volume depends on the type of transmission and year of manufacture. For a classic automatic transmission, the volume is usually about 11-12 liters, but with a partial replacement, 4-5 liters are enough. For CVTs (CVT), the volume can vary from 7 to 9 liters. The exact data is indicated in the service book of your car.
Is it possible to change the oil yourself without special equipment?
Yes, you can do a partial replacement yourself, with only a pit, a set of tools and a container for draining. A complete replacement with flushing often requires specialized equipment or the procedure by repeated draining and topping up, which can also be done with your own hands, but it is labor-intensive.
Is it necessary to adapt the gearbox after changing the oil?
For modern models Nissan Murano with CVTs or complex automatic transmissions, an adaptation procedure is desirable, but not always required. The control unit itself will adapt to the new properties of the oil during operation, but for smooth switching it is recommended to carry out a training procedure through a diagnostic scanner.
How often should the transmission filter be changed?
It is recommended to change the filter at every complete oil change or at least after one change. If the filter is built into the pan, then replacing the pan assembly is a standard maintenance procedure. Failure to replace the filter can lead to rapid contamination of the new fluid.
What to do if jerking occurs after changing the oil?
There may be air left in the system or the oil level may be incorrect. Check the level with the engine running. The box may also need to be adapted. If the jerking persists, the reason may be wear on the clutches, which was hidden by old thick oil.
Caring for your transmission Nissan Murano is an investment in reliability and comfort. Regular maintenance avoids sudden breakdowns and costly repairs. Take care of your car and it will give you many years of trouble-free service.