Replacing the transfer case on a Nissan Murano Z51: a detailed guide with photos and tips

Transfer case (transfer case) in Nissan Murano Z51 - one of the most loaded transmission components, especially if the car is operated in off-road conditions or with frequent switching between drives. Over time, worn bearings, gears or seals lead to humming, vibration or oil leaks - sure signs that the unit requires repair or complete replacement. In this article we will look at how to replace the transfer case yourself with Murano Z51, without resorting to the services of a service station, saving up to 30-50 thousand rubles.

The process is not easy: you will need a special tool, a lift or inspection hole, as well as care when working with electronic sensors and drive shafts. However, with the right approach, even a beginner can do it in 6-8 hours. We will describe each step in detail - from fault diagnosis to final inspection - and also point out critical momentsthat are often overlooked.

Signs of a transfer case malfunction on a Murano Z51

The first symptoms of problems with the transfer case appear long before the unit completely fails. It's important not to ignore them to avoid costly repairs to other transmission components. Here are the key signs:

• 🔊 Hum or howl when driving, especially at speeds of 60-90 km/h. Most often caused by worn bearings or gears.
• 💧 Oil leak from under the distributor. On Murano Z51 this manifests itself as oil stains under the rear of the car.
• ⚠️ Jerking or slipping when switching between 2WD, AWD Auto And AWD Lock.
• 🔧 Vibration on the steering wheel or body during acceleration, especially in all-wheel drive mode.
• 🚨 "AWD" indicator lights up on the dashboard - a signal about a malfunction in the all-wheel drive system.

If you notice any of these symptoms, the first thing to do is check oil level and condition in the distribution box. On Murano Z51 For this purpose, there is a control plug on the side of the unit. The oil should be clean, without metal shavings or a burning smell. If the fluid is dark or contains particles, the assembly requires at least flushing, and more often replacement.

⚠️ Attention: On models Murano Z51 with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, wear of the transfer case is often accompanied by damage rear axle drive chains. If you ignore the hum, the chain may break, which will lead to the wheels locking while driving.

Which transfer case to choose for replacement: original vs analogues

When choosing a spare part for Nissan Murano Z51 (2009–2014) important to consider transmission type And year of manufacture. The original transfer case has the article number 32100-4M50A (for models with CVT) or 32100-4M51A (for versions with AT). However, the price of a new node is from Nissan reaches 120-150 thousand rubles, so many owners are considering alternatives.

Transfer case type	Article	Manufacturer	Average price, ₽	Notes
Original (new)	32100-4M50A	Nissan	120 000–150 000	12 month warranty, fully compatible
Original (used)	32100-4M50A	Nissan (from showdown)	30 000–50 000	Risk of hidden defects, check mileage
Analogue (new)	TC-32100	Aisin	60 000–80 000	Quality close to the original, 6 month warranty
Analog (budget)	JTC-3210	JTEKT	40 000–55 000	Suitable for runs up to 100 thousand km

When purchasing a used transfer case, be sure to check:

• 🔧 Condition of the seals - they should not have cracks or smudges.
• 🔊 No backlash in the shafts (turn the shaft by hand - there should be no gaps).
• 📝 Compatible with your transmission (on Murano Z51 handouts for CVT And AT not interchangeable!).

Tools and materials for replacing the transfer case

To independently replace the transfer case with Nissan Murano Z51 You will need the following set of tools and consumables:

Inspection hole or lift|Socket and wrench set (10-24 mm)|Torque wrench (up to 100 Nm)|Axle puller|New transfer case oil (ATF Matic-S or equivalent)|Loctite 574 sealant|New oil seals and gaskets|Brake fluid (for bleeding the system after removing the driveshaft)|Multimeter (to check sensors) -->

Pay special attention oil for transfer case. B Murano Z51 manufacturer recommends Nissan Matic-S ATF (article KE908-99931), but analogues from Motul or Liqui Moly with permission JWS 3309. Refill volume - 1.2–1.4 liters.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the transfer case with Murano Z51 with CVT Be sure to disconnect the battery for 15 minutes before starting work. This will clear errors in the transmission control unit and prevent false alarms from the sensors.

If you plan to work in a viewing hole, prepare in advance engine and gearbox mounts — when removing the transfer case, you will need to partially lower the power unit. An assistant will also come in handy: some operations (for example, aligning the driveshaft splines) are difficult to perform alone.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the transfer case

The process of replacing the transfer case with Nissan Murano Z51 conditionally divided into 5 stages: preparation, removal of the old unit, installation of a new one, filling the oil and final inspection. Let's look at each step in detail.

Stage 1: Preparing the car

1. Place the car on a viewing hole or lift. Secure the wheels with chocks.

2. Remove the crankcase protection (if installed) and disconnect the negative battery terminal.

3. Drain the oil from the transfer case through the drain plug (located at the bottom of the unit).

Step 2: Removing the driveshaft and drives

1. Mark with a marker the position of the propeller shaft relative to the transfer case flange - this will help maintain balance during reassembly.

2. Unscrew the cardan mounting bolts (4 pcs., size 14 mm) and remove the shaft. Be careful: it is heavy and may fall!

3. Disconnect the drive shafts from the differential (axle shaft puller will be required).

How to remove an axle shaft without a puller?

If there is no puller, carefully pry the axle shaft with a pry bar, resting against the differential housing. Do not apply excessive force - you risk damaging the seal. Pre-treat the joint with a penetrating lubricant (e.g. WD-40).

Stage 3: Dismantling the old transfer case

1. Unscrew the bolts securing the transfer case to the gearbox (6 bolts, size 12 mm).

2. Lower the transfer case down while disconnecting the electrical connectors of the sensors. On Murano Z51 there are two of them: speed sensor And clutch position sensor.

3. Remove the assembly and clean the seat of old sealant.

Stage 4: Installing a new transfer case

1. Apply a thin layer of sealant Loctite 574 on the mating surfaces of the gearbox and the new transfer case.

2. Lift the assembly and align the splines with the box shaft. Tighten the mounting bolts, but do not tighten them completely.

3. Connect the electrical connectors. Check the circuit with a multimeter: the resistance between the speed sensor contacts should be 800–1200 Ohm.

Step 5: Reassembly and oil refill

1. Install the propeller shaft by aligning the marks. Tighten the bolts to torque 80–90 Nm.

2. Attach the axle shafts and fill in new oil through the filler plug (located on top of the transfer case).

3. Bleed the brake system (if the driveshaft was removed).

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

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when working with a transfer case. Murano Z51. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔧 Incorrect bolt tightening. Use a torque wrench! Overtightening leads to flange deformation, undertightening leads to oil leaks.
• 💡 Ignore AWD errors. After replacing the transfer case, be sure to reset the errors via the diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431).
• 🛢️ Saving on oil. Cheap analogues quickly lose their properties, which accelerates the wear of the new transfer case.
• 🔌 Damage to sensors. When disconnecting connectors, do not pull the wires—grasp the connector body.

Critical error: installing a transfer case from a Murano Z50 (2003–2008) instead of a Z51. These units are visually similar, but have different gear ratios and electronic protocols. The consequences are incorrect operation of AWD and failure of the differential.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the transfer case the indicator on the dashboard lights up AWD, check the clutch sensor circuit. On Murano Z51 it often oxidizes. Clean the contacts or replace the connector (part number 25460-4M000).

Checking the operation of the transfer case after replacement

After installing a new transfer case, you need to check its operation in different modes. Follow this algorithm:

1. On-site check:
   • Start the engine and turn on the modes one by one 2WD, AWD Auto And AWD Lock.
   • Listen to the unit for any extraneous noise. A slight rustle of oil is acceptable, but not a hum or grinding noise.
2. Test drive:
   • Drive 5-10 km on a flat road, then check the temperature of the transfer case (it should not be hot).
   • Turn on AWD Lock and drive on dirt or snow - make sure that all wheels rotate synchronously.
3. Checking on a lift:
   • Raise the vehicle and visually inspect the transfer case for leaks.
   • Spin the wheels manually - there should be no jams or play.

If everything is in order, after 500–1000 km, check the oil level in the transfer case and top up if necessary. The first oil change after installing a new unit is recommended after 10 thousand km - this will help remove metal dust that may have remained after break-in.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the transfer case on a Murano Z51

Is it possible to replace the transfer case without removing the transmission?

Technically yes, but it is extremely inconvenient. On Murano Z51 The transfer case is attached directly to the transmission, and removal requires partially lowering the engine or transmission. Without a lift or pit, it is almost impossible to perform this operation.

How much oil should I put in the Murano Z51 transfer case?

The volume of oil depends on the filling method:

• With a complete replacement (with removal of the unit) - 1.2–1.4 liters.
• For partial replacement (through the drain plug) - 0.8–1.0 liters.

Use only approved oil JWS 3309 (For example, Nissan Matic-S or Motul Multi ATF).

What sensors can fail after replacing the transfer case?

On Murano Z51 most often suffer:

• Speed sensor (article 32730-4M000) - is responsible for transmitting data about shaft rotation.
• Clutch position sensor (article 32701-4M000) — controls the differential lock.

Before installing a new transfer case, check the resistance of the sensors with a multimeter. The norm for the speed sensor is 800–1200 Ohm, for the clutch sensor - 200–500 Ohm.

What should I do if the AWD light comes on after replacing the transfer case?

There are several reasons:

1. Errors in the control unit have not been reset. Use a diagnostic scanner (eg Launch CReader) to reset codes C1105 or C1110.
2. The clutch sensor connector is damaged. Check contacts for oxidation.
3. Incompatible transfer case. Make sure the unit part number matches your model (32100-4M50A for CVT).

If the light remains on, have an electrician check the wiring.

Is it possible to drive with a faulty transfer case?

Short-term - yes, but with reservations:

• If the hum or vibration is weak, you can drive to the service station, but no more 500 km.
• Avoid the regime AWD Lock - this will accelerate the wear of the unit.
• Monitor the oil level - if there is a leak, the risk of jamming increases significantly.

Driving for a long time with a faulty transfer case will lead to damage to the differential and driveshaft, which will cost 2-3 times more than replacing the transfer case itself.