Transfer case (transfer case) in Nissan Murano Z50 - one of the key components of the transmission, responsible for the distribution of torque between the axles. Its malfunctions are manifested by characteristic symptoms: from extraneous noise when switching modes 2WD/4WD until the drive is completely blocked. Unlike simpler crossovers, Replacing the transfer case on a Murano Z50 requires taking into account the features of the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS, which is sensitive to the slightest deviations in settings.

This article will help you figure out when the transfer case can still be repaired, and when a complete replacement is required, what spare parts to choose (original vs analogue), and how to carry out the work yourself without the risk of damaging related components. We will analyze the dismantling/installation process in detail and point out critical points that even experienced craftsmen often miss (for example, mandatory adaptation of the control unit after replacement), and we will provide a checklist to check the operation of the system after repair.

Signs of a malfunctioning Murano Z50 transfer case: when is it time to change it?

The first signals of problems with the transfer case are often ignored, chalking them up to “car features.” However, delay may lead to cascading failures - from differential wear to driveshaft damage. Pay attention to the following symptoms:

  • 🔊 Crunching or grinding noise when switching between modes 2WD And 4WD (especially when cold). Most often caused by wear of synchronizers or bearings.
  • 🔄 Spontaneous shutdown of all-wheel drive. System ATTESA E-TS may go into emergency mode if the transfer clutch position sensor produces incorrect signals.
  • 💧 Oil leak from under the distributor. On the Murano Z50, this is often due to a worn tail seal or a crack in the housing (especially after impacts to the guard).
  • ⚠️ "4WD" indicator lights up on the dashboard. Errors C1105 or C1110 (all-wheel drive system fault codes) almost always require diagnosis of the transfer case.

If you notice any of these signs, the first thing to do is check level and condition of oil in the transfer case. The Murano Z50 uses a specialized fluid Nissan Matic S ATF (for models with RE0F10A) or NS-2 (for RE0F10D). Changing the oil with flushing can temporarily eliminate the symptoms, but if there are metal particles in the chips on the magnetic plug, the transfer case needs to be replaced.

⚠️ Attention: On a Murano Z50 with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, the transfer case drive chain often wears out. Its breakage leads to complete loss of the rear drive and can damage the body. When replacing the transfer case, be sure to check the condition of the chain!

Selecting a transfer case: original, contract or analogue?

The cost of a new original distributor for Nissan Murano Z50 (article 32100-4M00A or 32100-4M00B depending on the year of manufacture) starts from 120 thousand rubles. This makes alternative options relevant. Let's look at the pros and cons of each:

Part type Pros Cons Average price
Original (Nissan) 100% compatibility, 1–2 year warranty, no problems with adaptation High cost, long delivery time (on order) 120–150 thousand rubles.
Contract (used) The price is 2–3 times lower than the original, often with low mileage Risk of hidden defects, difficult to check operating history 30–60 thousand rubles.
Analogue (Aisin, Zexel) The quality is close to the original, the price is 20–30% lower It may be necessary to modify the fasteners or adapt the ECU 80–100 thousand rubles.

When choosing a contract distributor, be sure to check:

  • 📋 Donor mileage (optimally up to 80 thousand km).
  • 🔧 Reason for dismantling (if the car was in an accident, check the geometry of the body).
  • 🛢️ Oil condition (there should be no chips on the magnetic plug).
📊 What type of transfer case will you choose to replace?
  • Original (Nissan)
  • Contract (used)
  • Analogue (Aisin/Zexel)
  • I haven't decided yet

Tools and preparation for replacing the transfer case

To dismantle the transfer case on Murano Z50 you will need a specialized tool. Without it, the risk of damaging the connecting flanges or electrical wiring is extremely high. Here's the full list:

  • 🔧 Set of heads and cranks (required with an extension for the lower bolts).
  • 🔩 14 mm socket wrench for fastening the cardan shaft.
  • 🔧 Flange puller (For example, Kukko 204-2).
  • 📡 Diagnostic scanner (for resetting errors and adaptation, suitable Launch X431 or Delphi DS150E).
  • 🛠️ Jack and supports (the transfer case weighs ~25 kg, reliable fixation will be required).

Before starting work:

  1. Drain the oil from the transfer case (if you plan to reuse it, prepare a clean container).
  2. Disconnect the battery (to avoid short circuit when disconnecting the sensor connectors).
  3. Mark with a marker the position of the propeller shaft relative to the transfer case flange - this will simplify assembly.

☑️ Preparing to replace the Murano Z50 transfer case

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⚠️ Attention: On a Murano Z50 with the system ATTESA E-TS required after replacing the transfer case adaptation of the four-wheel drive control unit through a diagnostic scanner. Without this, the system may not work correctly or go into emergency mode!

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the transfer case

The process of replacing the transfer case with Nissan Murano Z50 takes 4–6 hours (depending on experience). Follow the instructions strictly in order to avoid mistakes:

Step 1: Removing the driveshaft

Disconnect the rear driveshaft from the transfer case flange. To do this:

  1. Loosen the four mounting bolts (14 mm head).
  2. Use a puller to carefully slide the shaft off the flange. Don't knock with a hammer - this may damage the splines.
  3. Cover the opening in the transfer case with a clean rag to prevent dirt from entering.

Step 2: Disconnecting the Electrical Wiring

There are two connectors on the Murano Z50 transfer case:

  • 🔌 Clutch position sensor (responsible for switching 2WD/4WD).
  • 🔌 Oil temperature sensor (affects the operation of the system ATTESA).

Carefully press the latches and disconnect the connectors. Label them to avoid confusion when reassembling.

Step 3: Removing the transfer case

The transfer case is attached to the gearbox housing with six bolts (12 mm head). Unscrew them in the order shown in the diagram:



1  2  3


4  5  6

After removing the last bolt, support the transfer case - it may drop sharply under its own weight. Carefully remove it downwards, avoiding distortions.

What to do if the transfer case “jams” during dismantling?

If the transfer case cannot be removed, check:

- Are the wires caught on the brackets?

- Is there any corrosion on the guide pins (treat with WD-40).

- Are all the bolts unscrewed correctly (sometimes the top bolts are hidden under the casing).

Step 4: Installing a new transfer case

Before installation:

  • Check availability o-ring on the flange (article no. 32126-4M000).
  • Apply a thin layer of sealant Loctite 574 on the mating plane of the gearbox housing.
  • Make sure mode selector on the new transfer case it is in position 2WD.

Install the transfer case into place, evenly tightening the bolts crosswise to a torque 25–30 Nm.

Step 5: Reassembly and Adaptation

After installation:

  1. Connect the driveshaft by aligning the marks.
  2. Connect the electrical wiring (check the tightness of the connectors).
  3. Fill in new oil (volume - 1.2 l for RE0F10A or 1.5 l for RE0F10D).
  4. Connect the diagnostic scanner and perform adaptation procedure (in the menu ATTESA E-TS → Transfer Calibration).
💡

Without adapting the transfer case through a scanner, the Murano Z50 all-wheel drive system will not work correctly: there may be jerks when switching modes or spontaneous shutdown of 4WD.

Typical mistakes when replacing a transfer case and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes that later lead to repeated repairs. Here are the most common:

  • 🔧 Incorrect bolt torque. Over-tightening leads to flange deformation, under-tightening leads to oil leakage. Use a torque wrench!
  • 🔌 Confused sensor connectors. If you swap the clutch position and temperature sensors, the system ATTESA will give an error C1109.
  • 🛢️ Using the wrong oil. Filling with cheap ATF instead Nissan Matic S accelerates wear of synchronizers.
  • 🔄 Lack of adaptation. Without calibrating the transfer case through the coupling scanner 4WD may not turn on or work with a delay.

Another critical error - Ignoring the state of the drive circuit. On the Murano Z50, the transfer case chain has a lifespan of ~200 thousand km, but with aggressive driving or frequent towing, it stretches earlier. If you don’t check the chain when replacing the transfer case, its breakage within 10–20 thousand km is guaranteed.

💡

Before installing a new transfer case, check the chain play: if, when rocking the transfer case flange manually, a gap of more than 1–2 mm is felt, the chain needs to be replaced (part number 32105-4M00A).

Checking the operation of the transfer case after replacement

After replacing the transfer case, you need to check its operation in different modes. Follow this algorithm:

  1. On-site check:
    • Start the engine and shift the selector lever to position 4WD.
    • Make sure that the indicator light on the instrument panel comes on without delay.
    • Listen to the operation of the transfer case - there should be no extraneous noise.
  2. Test drive:
    • Drive 50–100 meters on a flat surface in 2WD.
    • Turn on 4WD and check how the car behaves when cornering (there should be no “steering” of the rear axle).
    • Test acceleration from a standstill - there should be no jerks when switching modes.
  3. Scanner diagnostics:
    • Connect the scanner and check for errors in the block ATTESA E-TS.
    • Make sure the setting Transfer Oil Temp displays the actual temperature (should be ~40–60°C after the trip).

If after replacement the transfer case emits constant hum, there are two possible reasons:

  1. The propeller shaft is installed incorrectly (check the alignment of the marks).
  2. Oil of the wrong viscosity was poured into the transfer case (for example, instead of NS-2 used Dexron III).

Cost of replacing the transfer case at a service center vs doing it yourself

Transfer case replacement price Nissan Murano Z50 in service depends on the type of spare part and region. On average:

Transfer case type Cost of spare parts Cost of work in the service Total
Original (new) 120–150 thousand rubles. 15–25 thousand rubles. 135–175 thousand rubles.
Contract (used) 30–60 thousand rubles. 15–25 thousand rubles. 45–85 thousand rubles.
Analogue (Aisin) 80–100 thousand rubles. 15–25 thousand rubles. 95–125 thousand rubles.

When you replace it yourself, you save on work, but you will need:

  • 🔧 Tool (flange puller, torque wrench) - ~5-10 thousand rubles. (if out of stock).
  • 📡 Diagnostic scanner (can be rented for 1–2 thousand rubles/day).
  • 🛢️ Oil and consumables (sealant, sealing ring) - ~3-5 thousand rubles.

In total, independent replacement will cost 30–50% less than a service one., but requires time and accuracy. If you have never worked with a transmission Nissan, it is better to entrust the work to professionals - errors when installing the transfer case can lead to expensive transmission repairs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with a faulty transfer case?

Short-term - yes, but only in mode 2WD. However, ignoring the problem will lead to:

  • Accelerated wear of the rear axle differential.
  • Damage to the transfer case drive chain (replacing it will cost 20–30 thousand rubles).
  • System failure ATTESA E-TS, which will require flashing the control unit.

If the transfer case jammed, movement is prohibited - this may lead to a break in the driveshaft.

How often does the Murano Z50 transfer case oil need to be changed?

Official regulations Nissan provides for changing the oil in the transfer case every 90 thousand km or 6 years (whichever comes first). However, when operating in difficult conditions (towing, off-road, frequent trips over short distances), the interval should be reduced to 60 thousand km.

Signs that it's time to change the oil:

  • Darkening of the oil (should be reddish).
  • Presence of metal shavings on the magnetic plug.
  • Difficulty switching between 2WD And 4WD.
What kind of oil should I put in the Murano Z50 transfer case?

The type of oil depends on the transfer case model:

  • For RE0F10A (2007–2012): Nissan Matic S ATF (article KE908-99931).
  • For RE0F10D (2012–2016): Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 (article KE908-99944).

Refill volume - 1.2–1.5 l (the exact volume is indicated in the repair manual). Use of other oils (eg Dexron VI) will lead to accelerated wear of the clutch clutches.

Is it possible to repair the transfer case instead of replacing it?

Yes, but only in the following cases:

  • Wear of bearings (replacement will cost 10–15 thousand rubles).
  • Leaking seals (repair cost - 5–8 thousand rubles).
  • Malfunction of the clutch position sensor (replacement of the sensor - 3-5 thousand rubles).

If damaged:

  • Transfer case housing (cracks, chips).
  • Shaft splines or synchronizers.
  • Drive chain (stretch more than 5 mm).

— repair is impractical, a complete replacement will be required.

What should I do if, after replacing the transfer case, the “4WD” error light comes on?

Most likely the problem is one of the following:

  1. Adaptation failed dispensers through a scanner. Repeat the procedure Transfer Calibration.
  2. Connectors are mixed up sensors Check the connection of the clutch position and temperature sensor.
  3. The control unit is faulty ATTESA E-TS. Diagnostics are required (the unit may need to be replaced or reflashed).
  4. Low oil level in the distribution box. Top up to mark FULL on the dipstick.

If the error does not reset, check the sensor power supply circuit (open or short circuit).