Ignition coil Nissan Murano Z51: Diagnostics, Selection and Replacement

Ignition system on Nissan Murano the second generation (Z51 body) is a critical component that ensures stable operation of the 3.5-liter V6 engine. Precisely from serviceability ignition coils depends not only on the dynamics of acceleration, but also on fuel consumption, as well as the environmental friendliness of the exhaust. Owners often encounter the fact that after a run of 100 thousand kilometers, the engine begins to run unstably, and the Check Engine indicator lights up on the panel.

Unlike older distributor systems, it uses an individual ignition system, where each coil installed directly on the spark plug of its cylinder. This design minimizes energy loss, but makes the components vulnerable to overheating and vibration. Understanding of operating principles and timely replacement coils will avoid costly engine and catalytic converter repairs.

Design features and principle of operation of the system

On the engine VQ35DE and its modifications VQ35HR coils with an integrated control module are used. This means that the electronic control unit (ECU) sends a signal directly to the coil, and it itself generates high voltage. High voltage coil converts on-board 12 volts into a pulse of up to 40,000 volts required to break through the spark gap of the spark plug.

A special feature of the design is the absence of high-voltage wires, which eliminates their breakdown to ground. However, she herself coil is located in a zone of extreme temperatures and vibrations from the operation of a V-shaped cylinder block. Over time, the insulation inside the housing ignition coils may crack, causing current leakage.

It is important to understand that each of the six coils operates independently. If one fails, the others continue to function, but the engine goes into emergency mode. This causes the ECU to forcibly cut off the fuel supply to the problem cylinder to prevent unburned fuel from entering the catalyst.

Diagnosis of faults: how to understand that the coil is dead

Symptoms of failure ignition coils on Nissan Murano Z51 often confused with fuel system or oxygen sensor problems. The main symptom is misfire, which is felt as jerking during acceleration or unstable idling. If you feel that the engine is “troubling”, this is the first signal to check.

The instrument panel may display a P0300 (random misfire) or specific codes P0301 through P0306 indicating a problem with a specific cylinder. It is also worth paying attention to a sharp increase in fuel consumption and the appearance of the smell of unburned gasoline from the exhaust pipe. The engine may stall when trying to move away or run with vibrations.

• 🔥 The appearance of jerking and jerking when pressing the gas pedal
• 📉 Sharp drop in power and dips when accelerating
• 🛑 Check Engine light flashing (critical phase)
• 🌡️ Increase in engine temperature due to a violation of mixture formation

The problem does not always lie in the coil itself. Sometimes the cause of failures is worn out spark plugs with increased clearance, which creates excessive load on the module. Before purchasing new parts, it is imperative to check the condition of the spark plugs and the integrity of the connectors.

Selection of original and high-quality analogues

When choosing a spare part for Nissan Murano Many owners are faced with a dilemma: install only the original or look for worthy substitutes. Original ignition coil from Nissan (PN 22448-1YV0A or equivalent) has the highest build quality and precise insulation specifications. However, the price of original parts is often overpriced.

There are many proven analogues that offer excellent value for money. Brands like Denso, NGK or Hitachi are often direct suppliers to the conveyor. It is important to buy parts from official distributors, since the market is flooded with fakes that can burn out after just a month of use.

When selecting, you need to take into account the year of manufacture of the car and the type of engine. For motors VQ35DE and VQ35HR Different designs may be used, although they are similar in appearance. An error in selection will lead to the fact that the new part simply will not fit the connector or will not produce the required voltage.

• 🏷️ Denso (number 90919-02260) - one of the best analogues in the world
• ⚡ NGK (number 94656) - a reliable alternative with a long service life
• 🏭 Hitachi - often found as a factory part on early models
• ⚠️ Avoid cheap Chinese copies without markings

It is worth remembering that saving on the ignition system can result in the loss of an expensive catalyst. A burnt coil can transmit high-voltage pulses to the engine body, which leads to insulation breakdown and failure of the ECU or wiring. Therefore, the choice should be approached extremely responsibly.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing coils

Replacement ignition coils on Nissan Murano Z51 - a task of medium complexity that any car owner with a basic set of tools can handle. The process requires care as access to the rear coils is limited by the engine frame and intake manifold. Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

To access the front three cylinders, simply remove the decorative engine cover. The rear three cylinders will require removal of the intake manifold or, at a minimum, disconnecting a number of hoses and harnesses. Use wrench extensions and a ratchet with a head on 10 mm for unscrewing the fastening bolts.

The replacement process itself boils down to unscrewing the mounting bolt, disconnecting the electrical connector and removing the coil. The part must be removed smoothly, rocking it so as not to damage the plastic housing or the centering protrusion. Install a new one reel into place, making sure that it is firmly seated all the way.

• 🔧 Unscrew the coil mounting bolt (usually a 10 mm head)
• 🔌 Gently press the latch and disconnect the connector
• 🔩 Remove the coil from the spark plug seat
• 🛠️ Install the new part and tighten the bolt with moderate force

After assembling all components, do not forget to reset diagnostic errors. If you simply disconnected the battery, errors may be stored in the ECU memory. To do this, you can use an OBD2 scanner or disable the EFI fuse for 10 minutes. Start the engine and check its operation in different modes.

What to do if the coil is stuck?

If the coil is stuck, do not try to pull it out with force - the plastic may crack. Use a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Gently rock the part from side to side, gradually increasing the range of motion.

Frequent maintenance errors and prevention

Many owners make the mistake of replacing only one failed coil. Considering that the resource of these parts is the same, if one burns out, the rest will soon follow suit. Ignition system operates in a single temperature regime, and wear occurs synchronously. It is recommended to change all 6 pieces at once to save time and labor.

Another common mistake is to ignore the condition of the candles. Installing a new coils on a worn spark plug with a large gap will lead to its rapid failure. Always replace spark plugs and coils as a set, or at least check the gap and condition of the electrodes before installation.

Do not allow moisture to get into the candle wells. If you are washing the engine with steam or high pressure, close the engine compartment. Water entering the spark plug well will cause a short circuit to the body of the new coil. Also monitor the condition of the rubber seals - their loss of tightness will lead to sparks hitting the cylinder.

Component	Original number	Analogue (example)	Service life (km)
Ignition coil	22448-1YV0A	Denso 90919-02260	100 000 - 120 000
Spark plug	22401-AN50A	NGK ZFR6F-11	40 000 - 60 000
Spark Plug (Long Life)	22401-AN50B	Denso K20PR-U11	80 000 - 100 000
Reel cover	22448-1YV0B	Not sold separately	Along with the reel

Impact on the environment and catalyst performance

A faulty coil directly affects the operation of the exhaust gas aftertreatment system. When a misfire occurs, unburned fuel enters the hot catalytic converter. There it ignites, causing overheating and melting of the catalyst honeycomb. It could cost the owner Nissan Murano a very significant amount.

The engine ECU constantly monitors the performance of the catalyst through oxygen sensors (lambda probes). If the signal from the lower sensor shows lower efficiency due to misfire, P0420 will illuminate. However, the root cause is often precisely ignition coil, and not the catalyst itself.

Regular diagnostics and replacement of worn ignition elements is not only a matter of caring for the dynamics of the car, but also a way to extend the life of expensive environmental systems. Ignoring ignition problems can lead to complete exhaust system failure.

⚠️ Warning: If you notice a flashing Check Engine light, stop driving immediately and call a tow truck. A flashing light indicates a critical misfire that can instantly destroy the catalyst.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to drive with one faulty coil?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The engine will misfire, which will lead to overheating and damage to the catalyst. In addition, the load on the remaining 5 coils will increase, which will accelerate their failure.

How long does it take to replace all 6 coils?

For an experienced technician, replacing all 6 coils takes about 1-1.5 hours. If removal of the intake manifold is required to access the rear cylinders, the time may increase to 2-3 hours.

Do I need to reset adaptations after replacement?

Resetting the Long Term Fuel Trim is desirable, but not required. The ECU will reconfigure itself within 50-100 km. Errors need to be reset using an OBD2 scanner.

Why do new coils fail quickly?

Frequent reasons: the use of low-quality analogues, installation on worn-out spark plugs, moisture getting into the wells, or problems with wiring/connectors causing voltage surges.