LPG on Nissan Murano: Savings and installation features

Crossover owners Nissan Murano often face high fuel costs, especially given the appetites of naturally aspirated V6 engines. Switching to liquefied gas is becoming one of the most effective ways to reduce operating costs without losing momentum. However, installing gas equipment (LPG) on a Japanese premium crossover requires a careful approach to the selection of equipment and specialists.

An incorrectly selected system can lead to burnt valves, loss of power or unstable engine operation. Installation of HBO on Nissan Murano is a complex engineering process where it is important to take into account the operating features of the injection system and engine control. In this article we will analyze all the nuances of choosing equipment, installation and subsequent configuration for different generations of the model.

A key success factor is the correct choice of equipment generation. For modern motors of the VQ35DE and VQ35HR series, which were installed on Nissan Murano, it is strictly not recommended to use outdated systems. It is necessary to choose at least the 4th generation, and for new models with direct injection - specialized solutions of the 5th or 6th generation.

Many car owners mistakenly believe that gas “kills” the engine faster than gasoline. This is a myth that is refuted by statistics and operating experience. Provided you use quality methane or propane-butane reducer and proper tuning, the engine life is not reduced, and in some cases even increases due to softer fuel combustion.

Selecting a generation of gas equipment for VQ engines

V6 engines of the VQ family installed on Nissan Murano the first and second generations are among the most reliable in the class, but they are demanding in terms of fuel quality and settings. 4th generation systems are ideal for these power units. They provide consistent gas injection into the manifold, which completely eliminates the risk of flashbacks and burnout of the valve seat.

When choosing equipment, you should pay attention to the presence of high-precision nozzles in the kit. Cheap Chinese analogues often do not have time to open and close at high speeds, which leads to a loss of power at the top. Injectors must have a short response time and high dosing accuracy.

• 🚗 4th generation: Ideal for naturally aspirated V6s up to 2015, proven reliability.
• ⛽ 5th generation: Recommended for turbocharged versions or if there are problems with rail pressure.
• 💻 6th generation: Required for engines with direct gasoline injection (if such modifications are considered in the future).

It is important to consider that for the system to operate correctly, it must be connected to a standard engine control unit (ECU). This allows the gas system to “peep” at the operation of gasoline injectors and adjust the gas supply in real time. Without this, communication will be one-way, which reduces efficiency.

⚠️ Attention: Do not try to save money on the control unit. Cheap Chinese “boxes” without CAN bus support will not be able to work correctly with modern Nissan protocols, which will lead to constant errors and unstable operation at idle.

Installation of equipment on Nissan Murano has its own characteristics due to the layout of the engine compartment. The V6 engine takes up a lot of space, and installing a gas reducer requires the correct selection of the location so as not to disturb ventilation and not block access to other components.

Placement of cylinders and impact on the trunk

One of the main issues when installing LPG on a crossover is the choice of the type and location of the cylinder. For Nissan Murano There are two main options: a toroidal cylinder in the spare wheel well or a cylindrical cylinder in the trunk. Each of them has its own pros and cons that affect ease of use.

The toroidal cylinder (torus) allows you to maintain the maximum volume of the trunk, since it occupies the space that is normally reserved for the spare wheel. However, this requires installing the attachment on a bracket under the bottom of the car or using a repair kit. This is an important detail that needs to be discussed with the installer in advance.

• 🔧 Toroidal balloon: Saves space in the trunk, but requires carrying the spare tire.
• 🚛 Cylindrical cylinder: Easier to install, does not require moving the spare tire, but eats up trunk space.
• 📉 Capacity: The torus usually has a volume of 60-80 liters, the cylinder - up to 90-100 liters, but takes up the entire shelf.

When choosing a torus, you need to check whether your package includes Nissan Murano spare wheel. Some versions are equipped only with a re-roller, which simplifies the task - the cylinder simply snaps into place, and the re-roller remains under the car. If you have a full-size spare tire, it will have to be stored on a bracket under the bottom.

The fasteners must be designed for the weight of a full cylinder, which can reach 100 kg or more. Unreliable fastening is a direct threat to the safety of passengers.

⚠️ Warning: Installing a cylinder in the trunk without securely fastening it may cause it to move during sudden braking or an emergency, which will damage the trim and may cause injury.

Features of ECU setup and firmware

Installing equipment is only half the battle. A critical step is setting up and calibrating the gas system. For engines Nissan Murano with VQ system requires individual adjustment of injection maps. Template settings that are suitable for many other brands will not work here.

Specialists must carry out dynamic tuning, which includes training the ECU and adjusting injection coefficients at different speeds and loads. The process is carried out through Settings → HBO → Injector calibration using a laptop and a diagnostic cable. Without this step, the engine may run rough.

Particular attention should be paid to the cold start mode. The system should automatically switch to gasoline until the gearbox warms up and not switch to gas until the coolant temperature reaches a set threshold (usually 30-40°C). This prevents water hammer in the system.

• 🌡️Transition Temperature: Set the switching point from petrol to gas to protect the engine.
• ⏱️ Warm-up time: Adjustment of the gearbox operation algorithm during the winter period.
• 📊 Injection maps: Individual adaptation for a specific engine.

What is a multivalve and why is it needed?

A multivalve is a device installed on a cylinder that is responsible for safety. It shuts off the gas supply when the tubes break, controls the gas level in the cylinder and prevents overflow. Without it, operation of the cylinder is prohibited by law.

If the car is equipped with a Start-Stop system, it is necessary to configure the correct interaction with the gas system. Otherwise, when stopping at a traffic light, the engine may stall or not start on gas. This can be solved through the software settings of the LPG control unit.

💡

High-quality tuning is the key to ensuring that the car will consume a minimum of gas, and the dynamics will remain at the level of the gasoline version.

The influence of gas equipment on engine life and maintenance

The main fear of Japanese engine owners is burnout of valves. This is indeed a possible problem when operating on gas, but it occurs only if the maintenance technology is violated or low-quality equipment is used. Gas burns at a higher temperature than gasoline, which increases the thermal load on the valves.

To minimize risks, valve clearances should be checked regularly. For VQ35 engines that do not have hydraulic lifters, this is critical. It is recommended to check the gaps every 20-30 thousand kilometers. Ignoring this procedure may result in costly cylinder head repairs.

It is also important to monitor the condition of the spark plugs. They wear out faster on gas, so their service life is reduced by about 1.5 times compared to gasoline. It is recommended to use special gas spark plugs or change standard ones more often. Usage candles with the correct heat rating is a must.

• 🔧 Valve adjustment: Mandatory procedure every 20-30 thousand km for VQ engines.
• 🔥 Spark plugs: Change more often, use heat-resistant options.
• 💧 Filters: Change gas filters every 10-15 thousand km to protect the injectors.

If you use high-quality bottled gas (propane-butane) or methane, the risk of soot formation is minimal. On the contrary, the gas burns cleaner, which can even extend the life of the catalyst if the mixture is adjusted correctly. However, low-grade gas with impurities can clog injectors and damage sensors.

💡

Buy and always keep a tire puncture repair kit and a spare LPG filter in your trunk - this will save time and money on the road.

Cost and payback of installation

The financial issue is decisive for many owners. Installation of a complete set of 4th generation gas equipment on Nissan Murano costs from 60,000 to 100,000 rubles, depending on the brand of equipment and the complexity of the work. This includes the cylinder, reducer, nozzles, control unit, button and installation.

With active use of the vehicle (more than 20,000 km per year), the payback of the equipment occurs within 10-12 months. The difference in price between gasoline and gas is about 40-50%, which, given the high consumption of the V6, provides significant savings. Savings per 1000 km can be more than 5000 rubles with a combined cycle.

Below is a table of comparative costs per 10,000 km for Nissan Murano with a 3.5 l engine (average gasoline consumption 13 l/100 km):

Fuel type	Consumption per 100 km	Price per liter (average)	Costs per 10,000 km
Gasoline AI-95	13 l	55 rub.	91,000 rub.
Liquefied gas (propane)	17 l	28 rub.	RUB 47,600
Methane (CNG)	12 m³	18 rub.	RUB 21,600

It is also worth considering that the presence of gas equipment may slightly reduce the liquidity of the car upon resale, but for commercial use or a taxi this does not matter. Owners who plan to drive the car for a long time benefit immediately.

⚠️ Attention: Do not skimp on installation! Cheap installation often leads to gas leaks, fires and equipment failure, which ultimately costs more than quality work with a guarantee.

Legal aspects and registration

In Russia and many other countries, the installation of gas equipment requires mandatory registration with the traffic police. The process begins with obtaining a preliminary conclusion on the possibility of installation, followed by installation, technical inspection and final changes to the documents.

It is necessary to provide a package of documents, including a certificate of conformity for the equipment and a certificate of completion of work from a certified station. Without this, the vehicle will not be able to pass inspection and its operation will be illegal. The fines for lack of documents for LPG are significant.

For Nissan Murano the procedure is standard, but it is important to choose a certified service that has a license for installation. Unlicensed workshops will not be able to issue the documents necessary to legalize design changes. Check with the installer for certification before starting work.

In some cases, additional safety tests are required, especially if the cylinder is installed in a non-standard way. This increases the cost and processing time, but guarantees complete legality of operation.

Is it possible to drive without an HBO registration?

Driving without an HBO registration is strictly prohibited. This is considered to be altering the design of a vehicle without permission. You may be stopped at a traffic police post, issued a fine and prohibited from operating until the violation is eliminated.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install LPG on a turbocharged Nissan Murano?

Yes, but for turbocharged engines (if available in the future) it is recommended to use the 5th or 6th generation systems, which provide more precise injection and protection against overheating. Standard 4th gens may not be able to handle the high temperatures found in turbocharged engines.

How often should gas filters be changed?

It is recommended to change fine gas filters every 10-15 thousand kilometers. Ignoring replacement can lead to clogged injectors and unstable engine operation. This is a simple and inexpensive procedure that extends the life of the system.

Does HBO affect the dealer's warranty?

Official dealers often refuse to provide a warranty on an engine that has a gas system installed unless it has been approved by them. However, if the failure is not related to the fuel system (for example, a problem with the transmission), the warranty may be maintained. It is better to clarify this issue with the dealer before installation.

What to do if the car does not start on gas in winter?

During the cold season, gas may condense into a liquid state in the reducer. Make sure the gearbox is properly connected to the engine cooling system and is warming up. If the problem persists, check the temperature sensor and the settings for switching from gasoline to gas.

Is it possible to undergo technical inspection with HBO?

You can pass the technical inspection only if you have a registered gas vehicle and the corresponding marks in the PTS and STS. Without official registration, you will be denied a diagnostic card, which will make it impossible to issue an MTPL policy.