Installation gas equipment (GBO) on Nissan Murano - a popular solution among owners seeking to save on fuel without losing dynamics. A crossover with a displacement engine (3.5 or 3.7 liters) is ideal for converting to gas, but requires a competent approach to choosing the generation of gas equipment, installation and configuration. In this article we will look at which generations of equipment are compatible with Murano (Z50, Z51, Z52), how to avoid common installation mistakes and what to pay attention to during operation.
Feature Murano — a complex injection system and electronic engine control, which imposes restrictions on the choice of gas equipment. For example, on models with the system VVEL (variable valve lift) the ECU firmware needs to be adapted for gas, otherwise misfires and increased consumption are possible. We've analyzed owner reviews, technical details, and 2026 prices to put together a complete guide.
Which LPG is suitable for Nissan Murano: comparison of generations
The choice of HBO generation depends on the year of manufacture Murano and engine type. For crossovers with VQ35DE (3.5 l) and VQ37VHR (3.7 l) the following options are relevant:
- 🔹 HBO 2nd generation - Suitable only for carburetor or mono-injection versions (until 2002). On Murano does not apply.
- 🔹 HBO 4th generation - the best choice for Murano Z50 (2002–2007) and Z51 (2007–2014). Provides a smooth transition from gasoline to gas, but requires customization
VVEL. - 🔹 HBO 5th generation - recommended for Murano Z52 (2014–2021) with direct injection system. The liquid phase of the gas reduces the risk of detonation.
- 🔹 HBO 6th generation - a new solution for modern versions with
Direct Injection. High cost (from 120,000 ₽), but minimal power losses.
Important: on engines VQ37VHR (since 2010) installation of an ignition timing variator is mandatory (For example, Stag QMax Plus), otherwise the gas will detonate under high loads. Also for the 5th and 6th generations it is required fine gas filter with replacement every 10,000 km.
- 4th generation
- 5th generation
- 6th generation
- Not installed yet
- Other
Cost of installing LPG on Murano in 2026: price analysis
The price of the LPG kit and installation depends on the generation of equipment, type of cylinder and region. Below is the current price for Nissan Murano (average prices in Russia):
| Generation HBO | Cost of the set (₽) | Installation cost (₽) | Total (₽) | Payback (with a mileage of 20,000 km/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4th (BRC, Lovato) | 45 000 – 60 000 | 25 000 – 35 000 | 70 000 – 95 000 | 1.5–2 years |
| 5th (Stag, Prins) | 80 000 – 110 000 | 30 000 – 40 000 | 110 000 – 150 000 | 2–2.5 years |
| 6th (OMVL, Landi Renzo) | 120 000 – 180 000 | 40 000 – 50 000 | 160 000 – 230 000 | 3–4 years |
Additional costs:
- 🔧 Toroidal cylinder (50 l) — 25,000 – 35,000 ₽ (saves space in the trunk).
- 🔧 ECU adaptation — 10,000 – 20,000 ₽ (required for Murano Z52).
- 🔧 Replacing spark plugs to iridium (for example, NGK IFR6T11) — 5 000 – 8 000 ₽.
⚠️ Attention: On Murano with variator JF011E (until 2014) installing HBO without updating the firmware can lead to transmission overheating. The problem is solved by installing an additional variator cooling radiator (cost ~15,000 ₽).
Step-by-step instructions for installing LPG on a Nissan Murano
Installation of gas equipment on Murano It is recommended to trust certified centers, but knowing the steps will help control the process. Basic steps:
- Removing the bumper and protecting the fuel system. On Murano the cylinder is usually installed in the spare tire niche (for a toroidal) or attached under the bottom (cylindrical).
- Installation of gas lines. The tubes are laid along the gas pipeline, avoiding contact with the exhaust system.
- Installation of the evaporator reducer. The optimal place is next to the radiator (for example, on Murano Z51 attached to the spar).
- Connection to the injection system. The injectors are installed in the manifold (for the 4th generation) or integrated into the fuel rail (5th/6th generation).
- ECU setup. Use programs Stag QBox or BRC Sequent to calibrate the gas supply.
Check compression in cylinders (normal: 12–14 bar)
Replace the air filter and spark plugs
Remove the battery terminals (to avoid short circuit)
Check the tightness of the fuel system (no gasoline leaks) -->
Feature Murano — narrow engine compartment. For example, on Z52 the gearbox is often installed vertically so as not to block access to the generator. Also required modification of cylinder mounts, as standard brackets may not fit.
If after installing HBO on Murano There are jerks during acceleration, check the pressure in the gas train (normal: 1.2–1.5 bar). Often the problem is solved by replacing the filter or reconfiguring the ECU.
Operating Murano on gas: rules and mistakes
Switching to gas changes the engine operating mode Murano. To avoid breakdowns, follow the rules:
- 🔥 Starting and warming up. The engine should run on gasoline for the first 2–3 minutes (especially in winter). The automatic switch to gas is set after warming up to 50–60°C.
- ⚡ Pressure control. On the 5th/6th generation of gas equipment, the pressure in the ramp should be stable (check with a pressure gauge). Jumps over 0.3 bar indicate a gearbox malfunction.
- 🛠️ Maintenance. Every 15,000 km, the gas injectors are cleaned (ultrasound) and the vapor phase filter is replaced.
⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z50 with mileage over 150,000 km, installing LPG can accelerate wear catalyst. The reason is the increased exhaust temperature on gas. Solution: installing a fake lambda probe or removing the catalyst with Euro-2 firmware.
Typical mistakes of owners:
- 🚫 Ignoring valve adjustment after 100,000 km on gas (leads to burnout).
- 🚫Usage cheap gas filters (clogged after 5,000 km).
- 🚫 Absence oil level control (gas burns oil faster than gasoline).
What happens if you drive on an empty tank?
If the gas cylinder runs out and the system does not switch to gasoline automatically, the engine Murano may stall. Repeated attempts to start on “dry” gas lead to gearbox overheating and membrane failure. Also possible water hammer in the cylinders if the liquid phase of the gas remains in the line. Solution: always monitor the gas level (optimally - no lower than 10% of the cylinder volume).
Owner reviews: real operating experience
After analyzing the forums (Drive2, MuranoClub) and reviews, we have highlighted the key points:
- ✅ Savings. Gas consumption per Murano 3.5 — 12–14 l/100 km (versus 10–12 l of gasoline). At a propane price of 25 ₽/l, the savings will be ~50%.
- ⚠️ Dynamics. Power losses on the 4th generation of gas equipment are up to 10%, on the 6th generation - up to 3%. Owners Z52 They note “dullness” when overtaking on gas.
- 🔧 Reliability. If installed correctly, the engine life will not be reduced. For example, on 2010 Murano with 5th generation gas equipment, the mileage reached 300,000 km without capital.
Negative reviews are due to poor quality installation:
- 🔴 Gas leaks due to poor sealing of highways.
- 🔴 Excessive gas consumption (up to 18 l/100 km) due to incorrect ECU calibration.
- 🔴 Vibrations of the cylinder off-road (solved by installing shock-absorbing pads).
The best option for Murano Z51 — 5th generation HBO with a toroidal cylinder and firmware adaptation for VVEL. This combination provides savings of up to 40% with minimal losses in dynamics.
Legal nuances: registration of gas equipment in the traffic police
Starting from 2021, the installation of gas equipment requires mandatory changes to the PTS. The procedure includes:
- Obtaining a diagnostic card in an accredited center (cost ~3,000 ₽).
- Passing a technical inspection with checking the tightness of the system.
- Submitting documents to the traffic police:
- Statement.
- Owner's passport.
- PTS and STS.
- Declaration of scope of work (from the installer).
- Conclusion of a preliminary examination (if the design is changed).
Registration period is up to 10 days. Without making changes to the PTS, the owner faces a fine 500 ₽ (Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses), and in case of an accident, the insurance company may refuse to pay.
⚠️ Attention: On Murano with HBO prohibited park in underground parking lots (according to PPRF No. 390). Also some insurance companies (for example, Ingosstrakh) increase the KBM coefficient by 10–15% when applying for CASCO insurance.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about LPG on Nissan Murano
Is it possible to install HBO on a Murano with a CVT?
Yes, but required additional cooling of the variator (installation of a radiator ~15,000 ₽). Without this, during long trips on gas, the oil in the variator may overheat, which leads to jerking and a reduction in service life. JF011E.
Which cylinder is better to choose: cylindrical or toroidal?
For Murano optimal toroidal cylinder (50–63 l), since it fits into the spare tire niche and does not take up space in the trunk. Cylindrical (80–100 l) is cheaper, but requires fastening under the bottom, which reduces ground clearance by 3–5 cm.
How long does the LPG last on a Murano?
Equipment resource:
- 🔹 Gearbox - 150,000 - 200,000 km.
- 🔹 Injectors - 100,000 - 150,000 km (require cleaning every 30,000 km).
- 🔹 Cylinder - 10 years (after expiration, recertification is required).
Is it possible to drive on gas in winter?
Yes, but at temperatures below –15°C it is recommended:
- 🔹 Warm up the gasoline engine to 60–70°C.
- 🔹Use winter gas (propane-butane 90/10).
- 🔹 Check the tightness of the highways (rubber gets dull in the cold).
Which Murano engines are not compatible with LPG?
HBO is not recommended to be installed on:
- 🔹 Murano with engine
VQ25DE(2.5 l) - high risk of detonation. - 🔹 Hybrid versions (since 2015) - the complexity of integration with an electric drive.
- 🔹 Turbocharged engines (e.g.
VQ30DETTon older versions) - gas accelerates turbine wear.