Crossover owners Nissan Murano second generation (Z51 body) are often faced with a dilemma: remain faithful to the original fluid or take a risk and try high-quality analogues. The VQ35DE and VQ35HR series engines installed on this model are distinguished by a high degree of boost and sensitivity to the quality of lubricants. Incorrect selection can lead to accelerated wear of hydraulic compensators, coking of rings and even overheating.
The modern market offers hundreds of types of oils, and not all of them are suitable for Japanese naturally aspirated engines. It is critical to consider not only SAE viscosity, but also the actual base chemistry and compliance with manufacturer tolerances. In this article we will analyze in detail which parameters are priority for Nissan Murano Z51, how to distinguish a fake and what to look for when replacing.
Why choosing the right oil is critical for VQ engines
Engines of the VQ family, which are equipped with Nissan Murano Z51s are known for their reliability, but they require impeccable maintenance. The internal structure of these power units includes a complex system of phase shifters (CVTCS), which is directly dependent on the pressure and purity of the oil. Hydraulic pushers and phase shifters have very narrow channels that are easily clogged with oxidation products of the lubricant.
Using a fluid with the wrong viscosity may interfere with the operation of the variable valve timing system. This manifests itself in the form of extraneous sounds when cold, loss of power, or the Check Engine light coming on. In addition, modern oils for Japanese cars often contain specific additives that prevent carbon formation on the piston rings, which is especially important when operating in city traffic with frequent traffic jams.
Original specifications from the manufacturer play the role not just of a marketing ploy, but of a technical necessity. Factory engineers calculate clearances and operating temperatures specifically for specific lubricant characteristics. Ignoring these requirements, especially in the harsh Russian climate, can reduce the engine life significantly.Genuine Nissan specifications and approvals
When choosing a lubricant for Nissan Murano Z51 it is necessary to rely on the tolerances specified in the operating manual. The manufacturer requires compliance with API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) standards. For VQ35DE engines, classes SM, SN and the latest SP are relevant, which guarantee protection against wear and deposits.
Original oil from Nissan, which is often poured on the assembly line, has approval ACEA A5/B5 or a specific Japanese standard, but the main thing is viscosity. In most cases, the factory recommends using 5W-30 for year-round use in temperate climates. This viscosity provides rapid rise to operating pressure and excellent fluidity at low temperatures, which is critical for cold starts.
It is important to note that in some markets a thinner oil may be recommended for new engines. 0W-20, however, for cars with a mileage of more than 100,000 km, switching to such a low viscosity can be dangerous due to increased gaps in the friction pairs.
- ✅ API SN/SP - a mandatory class for protection against high-temperature deposits.
- ✅ ILSAC GF-5/GF-6 — standards ensuring fuel efficiency and protection of phase shifters.
- ✅ ACEA A5/B5 - European standard, often matching Nissan requirements.
Viscosity selection: 5W-30 vs 5W-40 and 0W-20
Oil viscosity is the first parameter that needs to be determined when purchasing. For Nissan Murano Z51 with a mileage of up to 150,000 km, the optimal choice remains 5W-30. This oil has the perfect balance between protecting parts at high temperatures and the ability to quickly pump through the lubrication system when starting the engine in cold weather.
If the car is used primarily in hot summer conditions or has significant mileage (more than 200,000 km), many owners switch to 5W-40. A thicker film is better retained on the cylinder walls and reduces oil waste, which can begin due to wear on the oil scraper rings. However, it is worth remembering that thickened oil protects the phase shifters less well when cold.
For new engines or when using premium synthetic base oils, it is sometimes acceptable to use 0W-20. This oil provides maximum fuel economy and instant lubrication of parts during startup, but requires strict quality control and the absence of oil waste.
⚠️ Attention: Do not switch to 5W-40 viscosity without good reason (increased waste or mileage over 200 thousand km). An increase in viscosity can lead to a slow response of the variable valve timing system (CVTCS) and a knocking sound at idle.
- ❄️ 5W-30 - a universal choice for most regions and mileages.
- 🔥 5W-40 - for old engines with oil consumption or hot climates.
- ⛽ 0W-20 - only for new engines and short trips in the city.
- 5W-30
- 5W-40
- 0W-20
- Other
Oil compatibility table for Nissan Murano Z51
For clarity, we have collected data on the most popular brands and their products that meet the requirements of the manufacturer. Please note that the availability of permission API SN or SP is a prerequisite, and the viscosity must correspond to the operating conditions.
| Brand and line | Viscosity | Approvals / Standards | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Genuine Motor Oil | 5W-30 | API SN, ILSAC GF-5 | Original, perfect compatibility with engine systems |
| Liqui Moly Special Tec AA | 5W-30 | API SN, ILSAC GF-5 | German quality, excellent cleaning properties |
| Mobil 1 ESP | 5W-30 | API SN, ACEA A5/B5 | High thermal stability, suitable for turbocharged versions |
| Shell Helix Ultra | 5W-30 | API SN, ILSAC GF-5 | PurePlus technology (from gas), low emission |
| ZIC X9 | 5W-30 | API SN, ILSAC GF-5 | Synthetic YH base, good price/quality ratio |
Replacement intervals and volume of liquid to be filled
Official regulations for Nissan Murano Z51 involves changing the oil every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. However, real-life operating conditions in cities with traffic jams, short trips and dust require more frequent changes. Experienced owners reduce this interval to 7,000–8,000 km, which significantly extends the life of the engine.
The oil volume in the VQ35DE engine depends on the presence of an oil filter. When replacing with a filter, it is necessary to fill approximately 4.8–5.0 liters. When replacing without a filter (which is not recommended), the volume will be about 4.5 liters. Always buy a 5 liter canister, as even a small overflow or residue in the system may require refilling.
☑️ Preparing for an oil change
Changing your oil more frequently will help keep the insides of your engine clean. Combustion and oil oxidation products build up faster than you think, especially in stop-start driving. Regular replacement is the cheapest way to prevent major repairs.
- 🛢️ System volume: ~4.9 l (with filter).
- 🗓️ Recommended interval: 7,000–10,000 km.
- 🔧 Filter: Be sure to change it at every oil change.
When purchasing oil, always check the integrity of the holographic seals on the lid and bottom of the canister. Counterfeits often have uneven seams or blurred labels.
Typical mistakes when servicing an engine
One of the most common mistakes is mixing oils of different brands or tolerances. Even if both oils are labeled 5W-30, their additive package may not be compatible. This can lead to sedimentation, loss of lubricity and rapid wear. If you plan to change brands, it's best to do so with a full system flush, although modern engines often don't require a full flush.
Another mistake is the use of “universal” oils with approvals for diesel engines (C3, C4) in naturally aspirated gasoline engines. Although such oils are often approved for gasoline, their additive package may be excessive or insufficient for the specific requirements of Japanese engines, especially in terms of protecting phase shifters.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly not recommended to use “five-minute” oil flushes before changing the oil in VQ engines. Aggressive chemical components can destroy seals and cause leaks, as well as wash carbon deposits into hard-to-reach channels where it will clog the oil receiver.
What to do if you accidentally filled in the wrong oil?
If you fill in oil with the wrong viscosity or tolerance and drive it for a short time, don't panic. Make a replacement as soon as possible. If the mileage has been significant, it is recommended to diagnose the engine and check the condition of the catalyst.
Specificity of oils for mileage over 150,000 km
When a car passes the 150,000 km mark, the condition of the seals and clearances in the engine changes. During this period, it is worth paying attention to oils with a higher content of anti-wear additives and higher viscosity if slight waste is observed. However, the transition should be gradual: first try 5W-30 labeled "High Mileage" and then, if necessary, 5W-40.
Series oils High Mileage contain special rubber conditioners that help restore the elasticity of oil seals and gaskets, preventing leaks. This is especially true for Nissan Murano Z51, in which camshaft seals or valve cover gaskets may begin to leak with age.
It is also important to monitor the condition of the oil filter. At high mileage, the filter must be of the highest quality in order to retain an increased amount of wear products. Cheap filters can clog quickly, causing the bypass valve to open and allowing unrefined oil to circulate.
For high mileage engines, it is critical to use oils with rubber conditioners and change the filter to an original or high-quality analogue every 7,000 km.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to fill 0W-20 oil in a Murano Z51 with a mileage of 100,000 km?
Not recommended. An engine with such mileage has increased clearances, and too thin an oil may not provide sufficient pressure for the phase shifters to operate, which will lead to phase errors and knocking of the hydraulic compensators.
Is it necessary to flush the engine before changing the oil brand?
Modern high-quality oils do not require aggressive flushing. It is enough to drain the old oil and let it drain for 10-15 minutes. If the engine is heavily dirty, it is better to use soft flushing oils, soaked for 20-30 minutes.
How often should the oil filter be changed?
The oil filter must be changed every time the engine oil is changed. Using an old filter with new oil is pointless, since it is already clogged with wear products.
Which oil is better: original Nissan or foreign analogues?
The original oil guarantees compliance with all specifications, but is often sold under the guise of “gray” products. Foreign analogues from trusted brands (Liqui Moly, Mobil, Shell) often have a better base and fairer tolerances if they are purchased from official distributors.