Cabin filter in Nissan Murano is not just a consumable, but a key element that affects the comfort and health of the driver. Over time, it becomes clogged with dust, pollen, bacteria and even harmful exhaust gases that enter the cabin through the ventilation system. If you notice that your car has become stuffy, there is an unpleasant odor, or the air conditioner is working less efficiently, it’s time to replace the filter.

In this article we will look in detail at how to change the cabin filter yourself. Murano all generations (Z50, Z51, Z52), including hybrid versions. You will learn where the filter is located, what tools you will need, how to choose a high-quality analogue of the original and avoid common mistakes. Also, learn to distinguish a carbon filter from a regular one and understand when to change it more often than the manufacturer recommends.

Where is the cabin filter located? Nissan Murano?

Unlike many cars, where the filter is hidden behind the glove compartment or under the hood, in Murano its location depends on the generation:

  • 🔧 Murano Z50 (2003–2007) — the filter is installed under the instrument panel, on the passenger side. Access to it opens after removing the plastic trim under the glove compartment.
  • 🔧 Murano Z51 (2008–2014) — similar to Z50, but the fastening of the cover may differ (latches instead of screws).
  • 🔧 Murano Z52 (2015–present) — the filter has moved to a more convenient place: behind the glove box (glove compartment). Just remove the glove compartment and the filter will be right in front of you.

On hybrid versions Murano (For example, Murano Hybrid 2016+) the filter location is identical to gasoline counterparts of the same generation. Important: if you have a model with dual-zone climate control, may have two filters - main and additional (rare, but worth checking).

📊 What generation of Murano do you have?
  • Z50 (2003–2007)
  • Z51 (2008–2014)
  • Z52 (2015–present)
  • I don't know

When to change the cabin filter: signs and timing

The manufacturer recommends changing the filter every 15,000 km or once a year. But in real conditions (especially in cities with high dust levels or allergens), this period is reduced to 8–10 thousand km. Look out for the following signs:

  • 🌬️ Weak air flow from the deflectors even at maximum fan speed.
  • 🤧 Constant fogging of windows — the filter cannot cope with moisture.
  • 🚬 Persistent smell of mold or dampness when the air conditioner is turned on.
  • 🌿 Allergic reactions in passengers (sneezing, itchy nose).

If you often drive on dirt roads, live in a metropolis, or suffer from allergies, it is worth replacing every 6–8 months, regardless of mileage. Carbon filters (more about them below) lose their absorption properties faster than usual - their service life rarely exceeds 10,000 km.

What happens if you don't change the filter?

In addition to discomfort, a clogged filter creates additional stress on the stove fan, which can lead to its failure. In advanced cases, bacteria and fungi multiply in the cabin, causing respiratory diseases.

Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Murano?

There are three types of filters on the market:

  1. Normal (dust) — traps only large particles (dust, fluff, leaves). The most budget option, but does not protect against gases and odors.
  2. Coal - in addition to dust, it absorbs harmful gases (for example, exhaust) and neutralizes unpleasant odors. The best choice for the city.
  3. Electrostatic - attracts small particles (including bacteria) due to static charge. Expensive, but effective.

For Murano The following original and similar filters are suitable:

Generation Original article Popular analogues Type
Z50 (2003–2007) 27277-4M000 Mann CU22011, Fram CF10134, Bosch 1987432466 Regular/charcoal
Z51 (2008–2014) 27277-4M010 Mann CUK22011, Filtron K1152A, Mahle LA230 Coal
Z52 (2015–present) 27277-4M020 Mann CUK29009, Fram CF11836, Knecht LA950 Carbon/electrostatic

When choosing, pay attention to dimensions: for Z50/Z51 standard size - 210×200×25 mm, for Z52 - 230×210×30 mm. Carbon filters are usually 3–5 mm thicker than regular filters. If in doubt, take a filter with soft frame — it’s easier to fit it in place.

⚠️ Attention: Don't buy filters that say "Universal" or "For all Nissan models". They rarely fit and may allow air to bypass the filter element.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

The replacement process takes 15–30 minutes depending on the generation Murano. You will need:

  • 🔧 Flat screwdriver (for Z50/Z51).
  • 🔧 10 mm socket wrench (for some Z51).
  • 🔧 Flashlight (to see the fastenings).
  • 🧴 Air duct cleaner (optional).

☑️ Preparation for replacement

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Replacement with Murano Z50/Z51

1. Remove the plastic trim under the glove compartment. To do this:

  • Unscrew the two screws at the bottom of the cover (screwdriver or T20 Torx).
  • Gently pull the cover towards you - it is held in place by the latches.

2. Behind the cover you will see the filter cover (black plastic box). Press the latches on the sides and remove the cover.

3. Pull out the old filter. Please note arrow direction (indicates air flow) - install the new filter in the same way.

4. Clean the box of debris with a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth. If heavily soiled, use an air duct cleaning spray (e.g. Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).

5. Install the new filter, close the cover and return the cover to its place.

Replacement with Murano Z52

1. Open the glove compartment and remove it from its hinges:

  • Press the side latches inside the glove compartment.
  • Lower the glove compartment down and it will come out of the grooves.

2. Behind the glove compartment you will see a filter cover (white or gray). Unhook it by pulling the tab at the bottom.

3. Remove the old filter. In Z52 it may be folded like an accordion - do not pull sharply so as not to tear it.

4. Install the new filter, following the direction of the arrow (usually → indicates the interior).

5. Return the lid and glove compartment to their place. Make sure the glove compartment is latched, otherwise it will wobble.

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If the filter does not fit correctly, check to see if you have mixed up the top and bottom. Sometimes the frame gets in the way - you can bend it slightly (but not break it!).

Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that negate the benefits of a new part. Here are the most common:

  • 🔄 Installing the filter backwards. The arrow on the filter shows the direction of air (usually from the engine compartment to the passenger compartment). If you mix it up, the filter will clog 2 times faster.
  • 🧹 Ignoring box cleaning. Dust and leaves accumulated in the housing will immediately clog the new filter. Always vacuum the box before installation.
  • 🔧 Careless handling of latches. The plastic clips on the trims and covers are fragile. If you break it, you'll have to go to a service center or glue it with superglue.
  • 🌡️ Replacement without ventilation. After installing the new filter, turn the fan on for a maximum of 5 minutes to blow out any remaining dust from the ducts.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the filter in the cabin there is chemical smellMost likely, you bought a fake carbon filter. Real coal has no smell. In this case, the filter needs to be replaced - it may release harmful substances.
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The most common reason for rapid contamination of a new filter is a leaky housing. Check that the lid closes tightly and that there are no cracks in the plastic.

How to extend the life of a cabin filter?

Even the highest quality filter will last longer if you follow these tips:

  • 🚗 Ventilate the interior regularly — open the windows for 5–10 minutes after a trip, especially in wet weather.
  • 🌿 Use an ozonator every 3 months to disinfect air ducts (for example, AirComfort XJ-2000).
  • 🔥 Don't smoke in the cabin — smoke penetrates the filter and neutralizes the carbon layer.
  • 🛣️ Avoid driving behind trucks — exhausts and soot clog the filter 3 times faster.

If you often drive on dusty roads, you can install prefilter (synthetic mesh) in front of the main filter. It traps large particles and extends the life of the main filter by 20–30%. Pre-filters are sold in parts stores. Nissan (article 27277-4M030 for Z52).

Another life hack: if the filter gets dirty ahead of time, you can partially restore. To do this:

  1. Remove the filter and vacuum both sides.
  2. Rinse under gentle running water (no detergent!).
  3. Dry in the sun or with a hairdryer (charcoal filters cannot be dried!).

This is a temporary measure - such a filter will last another 1-2 thousand km, but it is better to use it as a last resort.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the cabin filter in Murano

Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

Technically yes, but this will lead to:

  • Rapid wear of the stove fan (dust acts as an abrasive).
  • Exhaust gases and allergens entering the cabin.
  • Fogging of glasses due to high humidity.

If the filter is torn or lost, it is better to temporarily cover the hole with a thick cloth than to drive without it at all.

Which filter is better - carbon or regular?

Depends on operating conditions:

  • Coal — optimal for a city where there are a lot of exhausts and odors. But it is more expensive and requires more frequent replacement.
  • Regular - cheaper and lasts longer in clean areas (suburbs, rural areas).

If you have allergies or asthma, choose charcoal antibacterial impregnation (For example, Mann CU29009).

How much does a service replacement cost?

Cost of working in official services Nissan:

  • Z50/Z51 - from 800 to 1,200 rubles.
  • Z52 - from 1,000 to 1,500 rubles (due to more difficult access).

In unofficial services, the price is 20–30% lower, but there is a risk of running into fake filters. Replacing it yourself saves up to 1,000 rubles.

What should you do if the cabin smells like mold after replacing the filter?

This means that bacteria have accumulated in the air conditioning system. Solution:

  1. Buy an air conditioner cleaner (such as Step Up SP5030).
  2. Turn on recirculation and spray the product into the air intake.
  3. Wait 10 minutes, then ventilate the interior.

If the smell remains, the evaporator will need to be professionally cleaned.

Is the filter suitable for Nissan X-Trail on Murano?

Partially yes, but with reservations:

  • For Murano Z50/Z51 suitable filters from X-Trail T31/T32 (article 27277-4M000).
  • For Murano Z52 filters from X-Trail T32 (2014+) may not fit in height (5 mm thinner).

It is better to check the dimensions rather than the car model.