Finding the installation location of the filter element on the crossover Nissan Murano often causes difficulties for owners, especially during the first independent maintenance. The design of the engine compartment has changed depending on the generation of the car, and the location of the unit is not always intuitive even for experienced car enthusiasts. Errors when trying to find a part can lead to damage to neighboring units or loss of time.
Correctly determining where the oil filter is located is a critical step in performing a quality engine oil change. Ignoring the nuances of accessing the element may result in the old filter remaining in place and the new one being installed incorrectly. In this article we will analyze in detail the configuration of the engine compartment for different generations of the model. Nissan Murano.
You need to prepare tools and a lifting device in advance, as access to the filter element is often limited. In some engine modifications VQ35DE or VQ35HR The part is hidden in hard-to-reach areas. Knowing the exact layout will save you hours of work and stress.
Features of the location on the first generation (Z50)
By car Nissan Murano the first generation, produced from 2002 to 2007, the situation with access to the filter has its own unique characteristics. Engine VQ35DE installed so that the filter element is located at the bottom of the engine compartment, closer to the front bumper. However, simply looking from below is not enough, since the crankcase guard and mudguards create a serious obstacle.
You will need to lift the car or place it on a pit to provide safe access to the underbody. The filter is attached directly to the cylinder block, but its housing is often covered with plastic protection elements. Removing protection is a prerequisite for starting work.
Pay attention to the presence of an oil pan, which may cover part of the filter housing. Depending on the suspension configuration, access may be free or require the removal of some subframe elements. Be extremely careful not to damage sensitive wires or hoses when attempting to access the part.
Access scheme on the second generation (Z51)
Second generation model Nissan Murano (2008–2014) made significant changes to the layout of the engine compartment. Here's the engine VQ35DE or VQ35HR has a slightly different orientation, which has shifted the location of the filter installation. In most cases, the filter is located on the top of the engine, but access to it is complicated by attachments.
You will have to remove the plastic decorative engine cover to see the top of the motor. The filter is located on the right side (in the direction of travel of the car), often near the intake manifold. Sometimes a special extension and socket are required to unscrew it, since space is extremely limited.
Sometimes owners are faced with the fact that the filter is covered with a protective splash guard coming from under the wheel arch. In this case, it is necessary to loosen the fasteners and bend the plastic to gain direct access to the threaded connection. Do not try to unscrew the element by force if it is closed - you risk stripping the threads or damaging adjacent tubes.
⚠️ Attention: When working in the engine compartment of the second generation, make sure that the engine has completely cooled down. Metal parts near the exhaust manifold can cause serious burns if accidentally touched.
- V6 3.5 (VQ35DE)
- V6 3.5 (VQ35HR)
- Other
- I don't know
Localization on the third generation (Z52)
Third generation Nissan Murano (since 2014) received a motor VQ35DE with a variable valve timing system, which slightly changed the layout. The filter has again moved to the area requiring the vehicle to be lifted. It is located below, on the engine, and is often covered by a protective shield.
You will need to remove the lower engine guard to see the filter housing. It is located closer to the center of the car, but closer to the front axle. The mounting design has become more compact, which sometimes makes it difficult to use standard filter wrenches. Use special puller or chain tool.
A special feature of this model is that the filter can be positioned so that when unscrewed, the oil will flow directly onto the suspension or steering elements. Be sure to place a wide container to drain the waste fluid to avoid contamination of the chassis. This is critical to maintaining cleanliness and preventing corrosion.
Tools and preparation for replacement
Before you start searching and replacing, make sure you have the right set of tools. Without the right equipment, the process may take longer or lead to parts breaking. You will need a socket set, wrenches, and possibly a jack with stands to securely support the vehicle.
The list of required tools includes:
- 🔧 Oil filter puller (cup or chain)
- 🔧 A set of open-end and socket wrenches for removing protection
- 🔧 Container for draining used oil with a volume of at least 6 liters
- 🔧 Funnel and clean rags for wiping surfaces
Don't forget about personal protective equipment. Oil change work involves contact with chemically active substances and high temperatures. Use gloves and safety glasses to avoid getting oil on your skin or eyes. Safety is the number one priority for any technical manipulation.
☑️ Preparation for replacement
Step-by-step filter replacement algorithm
The replacement process begins with warming up the engine to operating temperature. This is necessary so that the oil becomes more liquid and flows out of the pan more easily. After warming up, turn off the engine and let it sit for 5-10 minutes so that the hot oil does not burn your hands when you first touch the parts.
Next follow this algorithm:
- 🛠️ Open the hood and unscrew the plug on the oil pan to drain the old fluid.
- 🛠️ Wait until the oil has completely drained and put the pan in place without tightening it too much.
- 🛠️ Find the filter housing and unscrew it with a special puller.
- 🛠️ Clean the contact area on the cylinder block and install a new filter with a new sealing ring.
It is important to install the O-ring correctly on the new filter. Lubricate it with fresh oil before tightening to ensure a tight seal and ease of unscrewing in the future. Do not over-tighten the filter as this may cause the seal to deform and result in leakage. It is enough to tighten it by hand, and then lightly tighten it with a wrench 3/4 of a turn.
⚠️ Attention: If you are not sure about the quality of the O-ring on the new filter, replace it with the new one from the kit. Reusing an old ring is unacceptable and will lead to leaks.
What to do if the filter is stuck?
If the filter cannot be unscrewed, try heating its body with a hair dryer. Sometimes using WD-40 penetrating lubricant helps, but only if it doesn't get on the belt or other rubber parts. As a last resort, you can carefully pierce the filter housing with a screwdriver to create leverage, but be careful not to damage the cylinder block.
Selecting quality consumables
There are many oil filter manufacturers on the market, but not all of them are suitable for engines. Nissan Murano. Original filter from Nissan is always the most reliable option as it is designed taking into account all the specifications of the motor. However, there are also high-quality analogues that are not inferior to the original in terms of filtration quality.
When choosing a filter, pay attention to the following parameters:
- 📋 Threaded connection size and housing dimensions
- 📋 Presence of check valve and anti-drainage valve
- 📋 Quality of the filter element and housing material
- 📋 Certificates of compliance with manufacturer standards
You should not skimp on the filter, as its poor quality can lead to abrasive particles getting into the engine. This will cause accelerated wear of the piston group and crankshaft. Regular replacement A quality filter will extend the life of your car for many years. For VQ35 engines, it is critical to use high life filters with at least 99% filtration efficiency.
Keep the receipt for purchasing the filter and oil. This can be useful when selling a vehicle or to confirm that scheduled maintenance has been completed under warranty.
Compatibility table and cross numbers
To avoid confusion when ordering spare parts, use the compatibility table for different model generations. Below are the main cross-numbers that will help you find the right filter in the catalogs of different manufacturers.
| Generation | Engine | Original number | Popular analogues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z50 (2002-2007) | VQ35DE | 15208-65F0A | OHM, Mahle, Mann-Filter |
| Z51 (2008-2014) | VQ35DE/VQ35HR | 15208-65F0A | Toyota, Fram, Bosch |
| Z52 (2015-present) | VQ35DE | 15208-65F0A | Wix, Purolator, Knecht |
| All generations | All | 15208-65F0A | Original, OEM parts |
Please note that the same filter number can be used on different generations, but this does not always mean full compatibility in terms of dimensions and installation location. Always check the physical dimensions of the part before purchasing. Using an unsuitable filter may result in damage during installation or inaccessibility.
The correct choice of filter and adherence to installation technology is the key to the durability of the Nissan Murano engine and the absence of oil leaks.
Frequent maintenance errors
Even experienced mechanics sometimes make mistakes when changing the oil and filter on crossovers Nissan Murano. One of the most common problems is improper installation of the O-ring. If you forget to remove the old ring before installing the new filter, it will cause immediate leakage and engine contamination.
Another mistake is over-tightening the filter. Many owners believe that the tighter the filter is tightened, the better, but this is not true. Excessive force may deform the housing, damage the threads, or break the O-ring. Only tighten the filter as far as it will go by hand. and tighten slightly with the tool.
They also often forget to replace the drain plug if it shows signs of wear or damage. An old gasket may not seal properly, causing oil loss. Always check the condition of all sealing elements before assembly. These are little things that can turn into serious problems.
Conclusion and recommendations
Knowing where the oil filter is located on Nissan Murano, allows the owner to independently control the technical condition of his car. Regular oil and filter changes are the easiest way to extend engine life. Don't delay maintenance until problems arise, as prevention is always cheaper than repairs.
If you encounter difficulties finding or replacing a filter, do not hesitate to contact a specialist. Professionals have experience working with various engine modifications and will quickly solve the problem. However, by following our instructions, you can do the job yourself and save money.
Remember that proper car care is not only about saving money, but also about ensuring your safety on the road. Timely replacement of consumables prevents critical breakdowns and maintains a long engine life. Take care of yours Nissan Murano, and he will reward you with reliable work.
How often should you change the oil filter on a Nissan Murano?
It is recommended to change the oil filter every time you change the engine oil. For engines VQ35 The replacement interval is usually 7,500–10,000 km or once a year, depending on operating conditions and the quality of the oil used. In severe conditions (frequent off-road driving, traffic jams, extreme temperatures), the interval should be reduced.
Can I use a filter from another manufacturer?
Yes, you can use high-quality analogues from well-known brands, such as Mann-Filter, Bosch, Tech or OHM. The main condition is compliance with the size, capacity and presence of the necessary valves. Always check cross numbers before purchasing to avoid mistakes.
What to do if the filter is twisted too much?
If the filter is screwed on too tightly, it will be difficult to unscrew it the next time you change it. Use a special filter puller (chain or cup). Do not attempt to unscrew it with bare hands or a regular wrench, as this may result in personal injury or damage to the tool. As a last resort, you can carefully pierce the filter housing to create leverage.
Is it necessary to warm up the engine before changing the oil?
Yes, it is necessary to warm up the engine to operating temperature. Warm oil becomes more liquid and flows out of the pan more easily, taking with it more contaminants. Cold oil drains slowly and can leave significant amounts of deposits in the engine. However, after warming up, allow the engine to cool slightly to avoid burns.
Where is the filter located on the Nissan Murano Z50?
On Nissan Murano first generation (Z50) the oil filter is located at the bottom of the engine, closer to the front bumper. To access it, you need to lift the car and remove the crankcase protection. The part is attached directly to the cylinder block, and often requires a special puller to unscrew it.