Complete Guide: How to Remove Nissan Murano Z51 Grille

Crossover owners Nissan Murano second generation (Z51 body) are often faced with the need to replace front optics, a radiator for the cooling system, or install an alarm system with auto start. In such situations, the question arises: how to properly dismantle the external elements of the body kit without damaging the fragile plastic and hidden fasteners. The process of removing the grille on this model has its own characteristics that differ from older or newer generations of Japanese crossovers.

Incorrect actions can lead to breakage of plastic caps, deformation of the bumper or damage to the paintwork. To avoid unnecessary expenses on repairs and the purchase of new parts, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the technological sequence. In this article we will analyze all stages of work, from tool preparation to final installation.

Many car owners try to remove Nissan Murano Z51 the radiator grille by simply pulling it with your hands, which is a gross mistake. The design of the front bumper and radiator grille provides several rigid fixation points hidden under other body elements. Understanding the architecture of fastenings is the key to successful dismantling without traces of intervention.

Preparation of tools and workplace

Before you start disassembling, you need to organize your workspace. It is advisable to carry out work in a garage or in a closed parking lot to avoid dust and dirt getting under the hood during the dismantling process. Make sure the car is parked on a level surface and the engine is completely cool, especially if you plan to work in the engine compartment near the radiator.

To complete the task you will need a standard set of plumbing tools. Be sure to have a set of screwdrivers ready, including flathead, Phillips, and socket heads. Specifics of fastening on Nissan Murano requires 10 mm and 8 mm wrenches, as well as a special spatula for prying out the clips so as not to scratch the paint.

• 🛠️ Screwdriver set (flat, Phillips PH2, PH3)
• 🔧 8 and 10 mm sockets and ratchet
• 🧼 Painting tape and rags to protect the paint
• 💡 Portable lamp or flashlight to illuminate hidden areas
• 🧤 Gloves to protect hands from sharp plastic edges

It is important to pay attention to protecting the paintwork. The bumper and grille are made of plastic, which can easily scratch the metal of the instrument if moved carelessly. Wrap the tip of the screwdrivers with masking tape or use special plastic spatulas if you have them in your arsenal.

⚠️ Attention! Do not use metal screwdrivers to pry plastic clips without first securing them. One wrong glancing blow can leave a deep scratch that cannot be removed by polishing.

Check the condition of all tools before starting work. Rusted or damaged heads can strip the edges of the bolts, making further disassembly much more difficult. If you plan to remove the grille to install additional protection or xenon, make sure you have clear access to the front of the car.

Removing wheel arches and lower mounts

The main part of the hidden radiator grille mounts is located in the front wheel arches. On Nissan Murano Z51 The bumper is rigidly coupled to the fender liners, which are held in place by several self-tapping screws. To gain access to the lower pistons, you need to unscrew the fixing elements in the arch.

Open the hood and find access to the upper part of the bumper mount, but the main focus will be on the arches. Insert a screwdriver into the technological hole of the fender liner and unscrew the screws located along the front edge. There are usually three or four of them, depending on the year the crossover was produced.

• 🔩 Unscrew the screws in the front part of the fender liner (usually 4-6 pieces)
• 🔧 Loosen the screws connecting the bumper to the fender at the top of the arch
• 🛑 Carefully bend the edge of the fender liner to open access to the bumper pistons

After unscrewing the screws in the arch, you need to bend the edge of the fender liner. This action will release the lower part of the bumper where the main latches that hold the grille in place are located. Be careful, the plastic of the fender liner on older cars can become brittle and crack if bent too hard.

At this point you should see a series of plastic clips running along the bottom of the bumper. They are the ones that connect the grille to the main body of the front end. Do not attempt to pull the grill towards you until these fasteners are completely released.

⚠️ Attention! When bending the fender liner, do not use excessive force. If the plastic does not give in, check to see if there are any unscrewed screws left in hidden places or under the protective cap.

Disconnecting the top clamps and removing the protection

The upper part of the grille is attached to the radiator frame and hood through special clamps. Access to them opens after lifting the hood. You'll need to inspect the space between the hood and the grille, where there are usually two or three plastic clips holding the top edge in place.

Sometimes the top fasteners are hidden under decorative overlays or a brand logo. In the case of Nissan Murano Z51 the logo is often a plug or part of a mechanism that requires careful removal. Use a thin flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the center pin without breaking its tab.

• 🔍 Inspect the area under the hood to identify the upper clips
• 🛠️ Carefully pry up the fasteners using a flathead screwdriver
• 🔓 Remove the logo or decorative trim if it interferes with access

After releasing the upper fastenings, it is necessary to check whether the elements remain connected to the wings. On some modifications, the bumper has side pins that go inside the wing. Make sure they are also disconnected.

Secrets of attaching a logo

The logo on the Nissan Murano Z51 is often held on by two plastic tendrils that are inserted into the grille holes. To remove it, you need to press on the antennae from the inside or pry them from the outside, if there is access. Sometimes the logo is part of a top bar that needs to be removed entirely.

If you are planning further work on the radiator, it is recommended to also disconnect the headlight and foglight connectors so as not to strain the wires when removing the bumper. This will add freedom of movement and reduce the risk of damage to electrical wiring.

Radiator grille removal sequence

Now that all visible fasteners (top, bottom and sides) have been disconnected, you can begin the final stage of dismantling. You need to act smoothly and evenly so as not to deform the plastic. You should pull strictly towards yourself, avoiding distortions.

Start on one side of the car, such as the driver's side. Gently pull the edge of the grille and check if any element is caught. If resistance is felt, stop pressing immediately and check that all clips are actually released. Often one piston remains hidden behind the bumper reinforcement.

After releasing one side, move to the other. When the grille moves away from the bumper a few centimeters, check for the presence of cables or parking sensors that can be connected to the grille (on some trim levels).

It is important to note that on Nissan Murano Z51 the grille is often integral with the top of the bumper or attached to it through a complex system of guides. If you feel like the part won't budge, you may have missed a hidden screw under the trim cap in the license plate area.

After completely removing the grille, inspect the seat. Clean it of dust and dirt, especially if you plan to install a new part or clean an old one. This will prevent squeaks and vibrations while driving.

⚠️ Attention! If you hear a cracking noise while removing, stop immediately. Most likely, one of the plastic tabs on the clip has broken. You cannot continue to pull, otherwise you may break the grille or bumper itself, which will require replacing the entire part.

Design features and typical errors

The design of the grille on Nissan Murano Z51 differs from many competitors in that it is integrated into the overall geometry of the bumper. Errors during dismantling are often associated with an attempt to remove the grille separately from the bumper without first loosening the side connections. This leads to bending of the plastic and disruption of the geometry of the gaps.

A common mistake is to use brute force. Nissan plastic is quite soft, but brittle at low temperatures. If you are working in winter, be sure to warm up the garage or use a hair dryer to soften the plastic before removing. Cold plastic can crack even with little force.

Another problem is the loss of small fasteners. Clips and screws on Nissan Murano They have a specific shape, and it can be difficult to find their equivalent in a store. Keep all removed parts in a separate box to prevent them from getting lost in garage trash.

element	Material	Mounting feature	Breakdown frequency
Top clips	ABS plastic	Inserted into the radiator frame	High
Lower pistons	Polypropylene	Snaps into the bumper	Average
Side clamps	Plastic	Enter the wing	Low
Logo	Chrome/Plastic	Two antennae	Average

Some owners are faced with the fact that the grille cannot be removed even after unscrewing all visible bolts. In such cases, it often turns out that there is a hidden latch under the license plate or in the central part of the bumper, which requires pressing a special tab to release it.

For successful work, it is important to remember the need to simultaneously loosen all side fasteners before pulling out the grille. This is a basic rule, ignoring which leads to deformation of parts. If you are removing the grille to install a radiator guard, make sure that the new part will not press on the bumper when the hood is closed.

Installation and performance check

Putting the grille back on Nissan Murano Z51 occurs in the reverse order, but with some nuances. First you need to attach the upper fasteners, then align the side pins with the holes in the wings and only then snap the lower clips into place.

Make sure that all the clips are in their seats until you hear a characteristic click. If the clip is crooked, it may fall out or break over time. Visually check the uniformity of the gaps between the grille, bumper and hood. They should be the same along the entire length.

• ✅ Check that the installation is even and free of distortions
• 🔊 Listen to the absence of extraneous sounds when shaking
• 🔧 Tighten all screws in the arches and under the hood

After installation, it is recommended to wash the grille and bumper to remove fingerprints and dust remaining after work. This will also check to see if there is any dirt left in the gaps that could cause corrosion or squeaking in the future.

If you installed a new grille, check how it looks when assembled. Sometimes different batches of spare parts have slight differences in shade or texture. If the difference is noticeable, painting or polishing may be required to bring the appearance to a consistent standard.

Frequently asked questions about service

Owners Nissan Murano Z51 People often ask questions about how often the grille needs to be removed for cleaning or repair. The answer depends on the operating conditions. In dusty regions or frequent off-road driving, it is recommended that inspection and cleaning be carried out at least once every six months.

Many people are also interested in whether it is possible to remove the grille without dismantling the bumper. In most cases, this is possible if you only need to replace the clips or clean the radiator. However, to completely replace the radiator or install a winch, the bumper will have to be completely removed.

Do I need to remove the headlights to remove the grille?

No, on Nissan Murano Z51 Removing the radiator grille does not require dismantling the headlights. They are attached separately and do not interfere with the process if you have correctly disconnected all the clips and screws in the arches and under the hood.

How long does it take to remove the grille?

It takes an experienced craftsman about 20-30 minutes to remove and install the grille. For a beginner, this process can take 45-60 minutes, especially if you need to deal with hidden fasteners and carefully bend the fender liners.

What to do if the clip breaks during removal?

If the clip is broken, it must be replaced. You can buy a universal set of clips for Nissan or select an original part from the catalog. Using tape or duct tape as a temporary solution is not recommended as it may cause vibration and loss of the part.

Is it possible to wash the radiator without removing the grille?

Washing the radiator through the grille is possible, but is not effective for deep cleaning. Dust and fluff fall into cells that are difficult to reach with a jet of water. For proper cleaning, it is better to remove the grille to gain access to the surface of the radiator and clean it on both sides.