Nissan Murano II (Z51): everything you need to know before buying

Second Nissan Murano (index Z51) became a real bestseller in the premium crossover market of the early 2010s. Released in 2008, it combined aggressive design, a spacious interior and powerful engines - all that buyers valued in the era of the growing popularity of SUVs. But more than ten years have passed, and today this crossover is often found on the secondary market at attractive prices. Is it worth buying Second generation Murano now? What pitfalls does the model hide? And how to choose a copy that won’t turn into a money pit?

In this article we will look at Nissan Murano Z51 from all sides: from technical characteristics to typical “diseases”, owner reviews and operating tips. You will learn which engines are more reliable, what to look for during inspection, and why it is better to avoid some examples. And let’s compare Murano II with the main competitors of the time to understand whether it is worth the money today.

Specifications Nissan Murano Z51 (2008–2014)

Second generation Murano offered with two petrol engines and a CVT Jatco JF011E, which became one of the most discussed parts of the model. The basic version was equipped 3.5-liter V6 VQ35DE (265 hp), and the top-end one is boosted to 280 hp. variant of the same engine. Both modifications combined dynamics with gluttony: fuel consumption in the city easily exceeded 14–16 l/100 km, which was the norm for crossovers at the time.

The drive is exclusively all-wheel drive (4WD), with the system All-Mode 4x4-ibutton to select the mode 2WD, 4WD Auto or 4WD Lock. The suspension is independent on both axles, with high-comfort shock absorbers. Ground clearance was 180 mm — enough for urban conditions, but not for serious off-road use.

Parameter	3.5 VQ35DE (265 hp)	3.5 VQ35DE (280 hp)
Engine capacity	3.5 l	3.5 l
Max. power	265 hp / 6000 rpm	280 hp / 6400 rpm
Torque	328 Nm / 4400 rpm	353 Nm / 4800 rpm
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	8.3 s	7.8 s
Average fuel consumption	12.5 l/100 km	13.2 l/100 km

Feature Murano Z51 - a variator, which many owners call the “Achilles heel” of the model. When used carefully, it serves 200–250 thousand km, but with aggressive driving or untimely maintenance it may require repairs after 120–150 thousand km. It is important to check the condition of the oil in the variator - its color and smell will tell more about the condition of the unit than any diagnostics.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the premium status, Second generation Murano has a number of “childhood diseases” that any potential buyer should be aware of. The main problems are concentrated in three nodes: variator, VQ35DE engine And electronics. Let's take a closer look at them.

• 🔧 CVT JF011E: the main headache for owners. Signs of a malfunction are jerks during acceleration, delays when switching “virtual gears,” hum or vibration. Most often it fails torque converter or belt. Changing the oil in the variator every 60 thousand km extends its life by 30–50%.
• 🔥 Engine VQ35DE: reliable, but sensitive to oil quality and overheating. Typical problems - Valve cover seals leaking, occurrence of rings after 200 thousand km, and rarely, but aptly - Timing chain break (usually after 250 thousand km).
• ⚡ Electronics: most often suffer ABS sensors, climate control unit And touch screen multimedia. The latter may “glitch” or stop responding to touches altogether.
• 🚗 Suspension: stabilizer links and bushings wear out 80–100 thousand km, shock absorbers - to 120–150 thousand km. The rear wheel bearings may begin to hum after 100 thousand km.

⚠️ Attention: If during a test drive Murano Z51 you heard a metallic clang when switching the variator - this is almost guaranteed to mean wear variator cones. Repairs will cost 80–120 thousand rubles, so it’s better to refuse such a car.

One more nuance - body corrosion. Despite galvanization, rust often appears on rapids, wheel arches And doorways, especially for specimens operated in regions with abundant use of reagents. Before purchasing, be sure to drive the car onto a lift or inspection pit.

What to do if the variator starts to “kick”?

If the variator JF011E starts to twitch or slip, first check the oil level and condition. If it is black and smells of burning, a complete replacement with washing is required. If the problem persists, diagnose it solenoids And valve body. In 30% of cases, flashing the variator control unit helps.

Options and equipment

Nissan Murano Z51 offered in three main trim levels: SE, SL And LE. Basic version SE already included leather interior, dual-zone climate control, cruise control And tire pressure monitoring system. Top LE added front seat ventilation, rear view camera, Bose audio system with 11 speakers and panoramic roof.

Separately, it is worth noting the system Around View Monitor (all-round review), which appeared in 2010. It made parking much easier thanks to four cameras that create a virtual view from above. Also installed in top versions adaptive cruise control And lane change warning system - a rarity for crossovers of that time.

• 🎵 Bose audio system: The sound is at the level of premium sedans, but the speakers in the doors often suffer from moisture.
• 🪑 Seats with memory: included LE The driver's seat remembers 3 positions.
• 🔥 Heated steering wheel: an option that is appreciated in Russian realities.
• 📱 Multimedia: in early versions there is an outdated navigator, in later versions (2012+) there is support Bluetooth And USB.

One of the main advantages Murano Z51 there was a spacious interior. At length 4.8 m crossover offered 1070 l luggage compartment (with seats folded - 2130 l). The rear row of seats was adjustable in angle, and the legroom for passengers was record high. 95 cm - more than many business sedans.

Electric seats and mirrors|Climate control operation in all modes|Condition of the leather on the steering wheel and seats (cracks, abrasions)|Functionality of the multimedia system (especially the touch screen)-->

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

In the class of premium crossovers of the early 2010s, Murano Z51 there were several direct competitors: Toyota Venza, Honda Crosstour, Ford Edge And Hyundai Santa Fe Premium. Let's compare them based on key parameters.

Parameter	Nissan Murano Z51	Toyota Venza	Ford Edge	Hyundai Santa Fe Premium
Engine	3.5 V6 (265–280 hp)	3.5 V6 (268 hp)	3.5 V6 (285 hp)	3.5 V6 (276 hp)
Gearbox	CVT	6-automatic	6-automatic	6-automatic
Fuel consumption (city)	14–16 l/100 km	12–14 l/100 km	13–15 l/100 km	13–15 l/100 km
Resale price (2023)	800–1,400 thousand rubles.	900–1,500 thousand rubles.	700–1,200 thousand rubles.	750–1,300 thousand rubles.

Advantages of Murano over its competitors:

• 🚀 More dynamic acceleration thanks to the variator (no “hesitation” of the automatic transmission).
• 🛋️ The most spacious interior in the class (especially in width).
• 🎨 Unique design that cannot be confused with other crossovers.

Cons:

• 💸 Expensive maintenance of the variator and engine.
• 🔌 Problems with electronics (especially in early versions).
• 🛢️ High fuel consumption compared to Toyota Venza.

If you need a reliable crossover with minimal repair costs, it’s better to take a closer look at Toyota Venza or Hyundai Santa Fe. But if design, dynamics and space are important - Murano Z51 remains one of the best choices in its segment.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Analysis of reviews on forums (Drive2, Drom.ru, Auto.ru) shows that opinions about Murano Z51 highly polarized. Some owners praise the crossover for its comfort and dynamics, while others criticize it for the high cost of repairs. Here are the most common comments:

Pros (according to reviews):

• ✅ Controllability: Soft suspension and precise steering make driving enjoyable even over long distances.
• ✅ Salon: high quality materials, comfortable chairs with good lateral support.
• ✅ Dynamics: acceleration to 100 km/h in 7.8–8.3 s — an excellent indicator for a crossover weighing 1.9 tons.
• ✅ Soundproofing: There is almost no tire or wind noise on the highway.

Cons (according to reviews):

• ❌ CVT: Most complaints are related to him. Repair costs 100–150 thousand rubles.
• ❌ Fuel consumption: easy to get out in the city 16–18 l/100 km during active driving.
• ❌ Electronics: the fuel level sensor and stabilization system often fail.
• ❌ Spare parts: original parts (eg variator step bearing) you have to wait for 2–3 weeks.

⚠️ Attention: Often found on the secondary market Murano Z51 with “twisted” mileage. Check history by VIN through services like Autocode or CarVertical. Especially if the mileage is less 100 thousand km, and the car is older than 2012.

Interesting fact: many owners note that Murano with mileage 150–200 thousand km often turns out to be more reliable than copies with 80–100 thousand km. This is due to the fact that the former had already gone through “childhood illnesses”, and the latter could be operated in a gentle mode (which is harmful for the variator).

Tips for selection and operation

If you decide to buy Nissan Murano Z51, here is a checklist that will help you avoid mistakes:

1. Check your service history. The variator must be serviced every 60 thousand km, engine - every 10–15 thousand km. If there is no service book, ask for receipts or refuse the purchase.
2. Pay attention to the oil in the variator. It should be light, without a burning smell. If the oil is dark or metal particles are visible in it, the variator is on the verge of failure.
3. Check the electronics. Make sure all sensors, cameras and touch screen are working. Often glitches throttle position sensor - this leads to floating speed.
4. Inspect the body for corrosion. Pay special attention rapids, arches And bottom of doors. Rust there is often hidden under plastic covers.
5. Test drive on a cold engine. If you hear knocking or vibration after starting, it may be worn out. hydraulic compensators or timing chain.

After purchase, follow these recommendations to extend the life of your crossover:

• 🔧 Change the oil in the variator every 60 thousand km (use only original fluid NS-2 or NS-3).
• 🛢️ Fill the engine with oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission API SN.
• ❄️ In winter, warm up the variator before driving (enough 1–2 minutes at idle speed).
• 🚗 Avoid sudden starts and towing trailers - this kills the variator.

Tuning and modifications

Nissan Murano Z51 not the most popular candidate for tuning, but some owners still modify it. Here are the most common modifications:

• 🔥 Chip tuning: ECU firmware allows you to increase power to 300–320 hp, but increases the load on the variator.
• 🎵 Audio system: replacing standard speakers with component ones (for example, Focal or Morel) and installing a subwoofer.
• 🖌️ External tuning: tinting headlights, installing body kits (for example, from Stillen), painting wheels.
• 🛞 Suspension: replacing springs with stiffer ones (for example, Tein or H&R) to improve handling.

The most controversial modification is replacing a variator with an automatic transmission. Some workshops offer such a swap (usually they put 5-automatic transmission from Infiniti FX35), but this requires flashing the ECU and costs 200–250 thousand rubles. According to reviews, after replacement the car becomes more reliable, but loses in dynamics.

⚠️ Attention: Installing wheels that are too large (e.g. R20 instead of regular ones R18) reduces comfort and increases the load on the suspension. Optimal size - R19 with tires 235/55.

If you want to improve your appearance Murano, but are not ready to spend money on an expensive body kit, consider the following budget options:

• 🔦 Installation LED optics (for example, headlights from Morimoto or Spec-D).
• 🖼️ Body wrap vinyl film (matte or carbon).
• 🔊 Replacement of standard exhaust forward flow (for example, MagnaFlow).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

❓ How long does the variator last on the Nissan Murano Z51?

With careful operation and regular oil changes (every 60 thousand km) variator JF011E may pass 250–300 thousand km. However, if you ignore maintenance or drive aggressively, the resource is reduced to 120–150 thousand km.

❓ Which engine is more reliable: 265 or 280 hp?

Both options VQ35DE built on the same base, but the version is based on 280 hp has more aggressive ECU settings and a slightly less reliable timing chain. If you are not a racer, it is better to choose 265 hp the motor is more durable and more economical.

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Murano Z51?

Technically yes, but with caveats. Maximum trailer weight - 900 kg (with brakes). However, towing puts a lot of stress on the CVT, so it's best to avoid this or use lightweight trailers (like an ATV).

❓ What oil to pour into the VQ35DE engine?

Synthetic oil recommended 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission API SN. Optimal brands: Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Idemitsu. Volume - 4.8 l when replacing with a filter.

❓ Is it worth buying Murano Z51 today?

If you need a stylish, comfortable crossover for the city and rare trips to the country - yes. But be prepared for fuel costs (14–16 l/100 km) and potential CVT repair. For long trips or off-roading, it is better to consider alternatives (for example, Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V).