Replacing the Nissan Murano cabin filter: when, which one and how to change it?

Cabin filter in Nissan Murano - this is that invisible, but critically important element on which not only the cleanliness of the air in the cabin depends, but also the health of the driver and passengers. Many owners forget about its existence, until they begin to notice a persistent smell of mold, deterioration in the performance of the stove or air conditioner. Meanwhile, replacing this consumable takes no more than 15 minutes and does not require special skills - just know a few key nuances.

In this article we will look at all about cabin filters for Murano: from signs of wear and frequency of replacement to step-by-step instructions with photos for different generations (Z50, Z51, Z52). We will pay special attention hidden problem of the 2015-2021 Murano - non-standard filter mounting, due to which many owners break the latches during the first replacement. You will also learn how to choose a filter among 10+ brands (from budget to premium) and why carbon options are not always worth their price.

Signs of a clogged cabin filter: when to change?

The manufacturer recommends changing the cabin filter at Nissan Murano every 15,000 km or once a year - whichever comes first. However, in the realities of Russian roads (dust, smog, poplar fluff), this interval is often reduced to 8–10 thousand km. How to understand that the filter needs replacing right now?

Here 5 obvious symptomsthat cannot be ignored:

• 🌬️ Weak air flow from the deflectors even at maximum fan speed. This is the first sign that the filter is clogged with dust and no longer allows air to pass through.
• 🤧 Constant smell of dampness or mold in the cabin, especially when the air conditioning is turned on. The damp environment of a clogged filter is an ideal place for bacteria to grow.
• 🚗 Fogging of windows for no apparent reason (even in dry weather). A clogged filter interferes with air circulation, increasing humidity in the cabin.
• 🔊 Extraneous noise When the fan is running, there is a whistling or humming sound. This could mean that the fan blades are rubbing against accumulated debris in the filter.
• 🤒 Allergic reactions Passengers: sneezing, itchy nose. An old filter does not capture pollen, spores and small particles.

If you even noticed two of these signs, the filter needs to be replaced immediately. This is especially critical for owners Murano with climate control: a dirty filter causes the system to wear out, which leads to breakdown of sensors and servos.

⚠️ Attention! B Murano Z52 (2015–2021) an error may occur if the filter is heavily soiled P0500 (speed sensor circuit malfunction). This is because a clogged filter creates excess air resistance, and the ECU mistakenly interprets this as a sensor problem.

Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Murano?

The market offers dozens of options for cabin filters for Murano, but not all of them are equally effective. Main selection criteria:

1. Filter type:
   • 🔹 Normal (dust) — traps only large particles (dust, leaves). The most budget option, but requires frequent replacement.
   • 🔹 Coal — additionally absorbs harmful gases (exhausts, odors). Optimal for urban use, but more expensive and clogs faster.
   • 🔹 Electrostatic — attracts small particles (pollen, bacteria) due to a static charge. Rarely found for Murano, but most effective.
2. Generation Compatible:
   • Z50 (2003–2007) - filter with article number 27277-4M000 or analogues (Mann CU22003, Bosch 1987432464).
   • Z51 (2008–2014) - art. 27277-4M00A (Mann CU25008, Framm CF10134).
   • Z52 (2015–2021) - art. 27277-4M01A (Mann CU29004, Mahle LA923).

Brand - from budget (JS Asakashi, SCT) to premium (Mann, Mahle, Bosch). The price difference can reach 500%, but is not always justified.

For most owners Murano the optimal choice would be mid-price carbon filter (For example, Mann CU29004 or Bosch 1987434765). It provides a balance between air purification and resource. But it’s better to avoid cheap “no-name” filters - they often have loose fit, which causes dust to bypass the filter around the edges.

Brand	Article	Type	Price (₽)	Features
Mann	CU29004	Coal	1 200–1 500	High quality filtration, suitable for Z52
Bosch	1987434765	Coal	1 000–1 300	Good throughput, long service life
Mahle	LA923	Coal	1 100–1 400	Improved protection against bacteria
Framm	CF10134	Regular	400–600	Budget option for Z51
JS Asakashi	ACF013	Coal	300–500	Low price, but short resource

⚠️ Attention! B Murano Z52 (2015–2021) original filter 27277-4M01A has non-standard shape with protrusion. Many analogues (for example, SCT SAK 2015) do not take this protrusion into account, which is why the filter does not fit tightly and allows dust to pass through. Please check the photos for compatibility before purchasing!

Where is the cabin air filter located in the Nissan Murano?

Unlike many cars, where the filter is hidden behind the glove compartment or under the hood, in Murano its location varies by generation. General rule: look for it behind the glove box (glove compartment), but there are nuances.

For Murano Z50 (2003–2007) And Z51 (2008–2014) The access algorithm is the same:

1. Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.
2. On the right side (passenger side) find plastic cover with latches.
3. Press the latches and remove the cover - behind it you will see a filter.

B Murano Z52 (2015–2021) the process is more complicated:

1. Need a glove box remove completely (it is attached to 4 plastic clips).
2. Behind the glove compartment you will find black plastic case with filter.
3. The housing is fixed two latches on top and one on bottom - they need to be squeezed out carefully so as not to break.

Here visual diagram filter locations for different generations:

• 📍 Z50/Z51: filter is located vertically behind the glove compartment, access without removing the glove compartment.
• 📍 Z52: filter located horizontal in a plastic box, requires removal of the glove compartment.

How to remove the glove compartment in Murano Z52 without breaking it?

1. Open the glove compartment and take out all the contents. 2. Press the side walls of the glove compartment inward - this will loosen the clips. 3. Gently pull the glove compartment towards you, starting from the bottom. 4. If the clips do not budge, use a plastic spatula, but not a screwdriver (to avoid scratching the panel).

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

Now let's move on to the process itself. We will analyze the replacement using an example Murano Z52 (2015–2021), since this is the most difficult generation. For Z50/Z51 The algorithm is simpler - just skip the steps of removing the glove compartment.

You will need:

• 🔧 New cabin filter (check the article number!).
• 🪛 Plastic spatula or blunt screwdriver (for removing clips).
• 🧴 Wet wipes (for cleaning the case).
• 🔦 Flashlight (to see the fastenings).

Step by step instructions:

1. Removing the glove compartment:
   • Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.
   • Push the sides of the glove box inward to loosen the clips.
   • Gently pull the glove compartment towards you, starting from the bottom. If it doesn't work, use a plastic spatula.
2. Filter access:
   • Behind the glove compartment you will see a black plastic housing with a filter.
   • Squeeze two top latches (they are white) and one bottom (black).
   • Remove the housing cover - it may be tight, do not use excessive force.
3. Removing the old filter:
   • Remove the old filter by pulling it towards you. Be prepared for the fact that it may crumble - this is normal for a heavily clogged filter.
   • Clean the case from dust and debris with a damp cloth. Do not use water - only a dry or slightly damp cloth.
4. Installing a new filter:
   • Check if the shape of the new filter matches the old one (especially for Z52 - look at the ledge!).
   • Install a filter down arrow (there is a marking on the filter Air Flow).
   • Close the housing cover and snap it until it clicks.
5. Assembly:
   • Install the glove box into place, starting with the top clips.
   • Press the glove compartment until it clicks - this means that the clips are in place.

The whole process takes no more than 15 minutes, even if this is your first time. The main thing is to take your time and not break the plastic latches.

⚠️ Attention! B Murano Z52 when installing the filter don't mix up and down. If you place the filter with the arrow pointing up, this will lead to poor air flow and possible freezing of the air conditioner evaporator in winter.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter can turn into problems if you don’t know the typical mistakes. Here TOP-5 misses owners Murano:

• 🔧 Broken glove box latches. Many people try to remove the glove compartment with a screwdriver, which leads to cracks in the plastic. Solution: Use a plastic spatula and heat the clips with a hairdryer (if they don't budge).
• 🔄 Incorrect filter orientation. Setting the filter upside down results in deterioration of air exchange and quick scoring. Solution: Always look at the arrow Air Flow - it should be directed downwards.
• 🧹 Ignoring case cleaning. If you do not remove dust from the housing, the new filter will clog 2 times faster. Solution: Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth.
• 🔍 Buying an Incompatible Filter. Especially relevant for Z52, where many analogues do not take into account the protrusion. Solution: Before purchasing, please check the photo of the original filter.
• 🚗 Replacement without turning off the ignition. If the fan suddenly turns on, dust from the old filter will fly around the cabin. Solution: Always turn off the ignition and remove the key.

One more hidden problem - this is condensation in the filter housing. If you notice moisture inside, it means that the air conditioner drain hole is clogged. In this case you need:

1. Remove the filter and dry the housing with a hairdryer.
2. Locate the drain pipe under the car (near the right front wheel).
3. Blow it out with compressed air or clean it with wire.

If you ignore condensation, the interior will appear persistent musty odor, and the filter will have to be changed every 3-4 months.

How to extend the life of a cabin filter?

The cabin filter is a consumable, but its resource can be increased by 30–50% if you follow simple recommendations. Here 7 proven methods:

• 🌿 Regular cleaning of the housing. Every 3 months, remove the filter and vacuum the housing. This will prevent the accumulation of dust and bacteria.
• 🚿 Using antibacterial sprays. Once every six months, treat the filter with a spray (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger). This kills bacteria and eliminates odors.
• 🌬️ Ventilation of the interior. After driving, leave the windows slightly open for 5–10 minutes (especially in summer). This reduces humidity and prevents mold.
• 🚫 Quitting smoking in the cabin. Tobacco smoke quickly clogs the carbon filter and neutralizes its properties.
• 🔧 Checking the air conditioner drainage. Clean the drain pipe once a year to avoid condensation build-up.
• 🌡️ Humidity control. If the windows in the car often fog up, use dehumidifiers (for example, Silica Gel).
• 🛣️ Avoiding dusty roads. If you have to drive on a dirt road, reduce your speed and close your windows.

If you live in a metropolitan area or a region with high humidity, consider installing filter with anti-allergenic coating (For example, Mann FP29004). It costs more, but it traps even the smallest particles and mold spores.

Should you trust a filter replacement service?

Many car owners prefer to change the cabin filter at a service center for fear of breaking something. But in practice 90% of service stations inflate the cost of work or install cheap analogues instead of the original. Let's figure out when it's worth going to a service center and when you can handle it yourself.

Advantages of self-replacement:

• ✅ Savings 1,000–1,500 rubles (the service charges this much for the work).
• ✅ Quality guarantee - you choose the filter yourself and control the process.
• ✅ Fast - no need to sign up and wait in line.

When is the best time to contact the service:

• 🔧 If you have Murano Z52 and you are afraid of breaking the glove compartment clips.
• 🔍 If during replacement you find mold in the housing - it must be removed with special means.
• 🚗 If the filter stuck to the body and cannot be removed (this happens during long-term use).

Average cost of replacement in service:

Service	Price (₽)	Time
Replacing the filter (work)	800–1 500	10–15 min
Original filter	1 500–2 500	—
Analogue (Mann, Bosch)	800–1 500	—
Treatment with antibacterial spray	300–500	5 min

If you decide to go to the service center, buy the filter yourself in advance - this way you will avoid markups and installation of a cheap analogue. Also ask the master show old filter after replacement, this is confirmation that the work has actually been done.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano cabin filter

Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

Technically yes, but this highly not recommended. Without a filter, not only dust will enter the cabin, but also insects, leaves, and harmful gases (for example, from the exhaust of cars in front). In addition, dust will settle on the air conditioner evaporator, which will lead to its premature wear and the appearance of mold.

How often should I change the filter if I drive little (less than 10,000 km per year)?

Even with low mileage, the filter needs to be changed once a year. Over time, the filter material loses its properties, and the accumulated dust becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. If the car is parked in a garage, you can extend the interval to 18 months, but no more.

How does the original filter differ from analogues?

Original filter (Nissan 27277-4M01A for Z52) is made of denser material and has better throughput. However, many analogues (Mann, Mahle, Bosch) are not inferior in quality, but are cheaper. The main thing is to choose filters with ISO/TS 16949 certification, which guarantees compliance with standards.

Is it possible to wash the cabin filter instead of replacing it?

You can only wash dust filters (not coal!). To do this:

1. Rinse the filter under a gentle stream of water (no detergents!).
2. Dry it in the sun or with a hairdryer (not in the oven!).
3. Reinstall only after complete drying.

However, even after washing, the filter loses up to 30% of its effectiveness, so it's better to replace it.

Why does the cabin smell like burning after replacing the filter?

This is normal if you have installed carbon filter. Activated carbon may smell a little in the first days. If the smell does not go away after a week, check:

• Correct installation of the filter (are there any gaps).
• Condition of the ventilation system (dirt may have accumulated in the air ducts).
• Filter quality (cheap analogues sometimes have a chemical smell).