An automatic transmission is one of the most complex and expensive components in Nissan Murano. Not only driving comfort, but also safety on the road depends on its condition. Crossover owners often face questions: how to recognize the first signs of a malfunction, what type of oil to fill, and is it possible to extend the life of the automatic transmission without expensive repairs?
In this article we will look at all generations Murano (Z50, Z51, Z52) with an emphasis on the features of their automatic transmissions. You will find out what symptoms require immediate diagnosis, how to properly maintain the box, and why ignoring minor problems can result in a major overhaul. The material was prepared taking into account the experience of service centers and reviews of owners - without water, only specific facts and recommendations.
Types of automatic transmission in Nissan Murano: what is the difference between the Z50, Z51 and Z52 models
For the history of production Murano was equipped with three main types of automatic transmissions, each of which has its own design features and “diseases”. Let's look at them in more detail:
- 🔧 RE0F10A (JF011E) - installed on Murano Z50 (2002–2007) with engines
VQ35DE(3.5 l). This is a classic 5-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter, known for its reliability, but sensitive to oil quality. - ⚙️ RE0F10D (JF016E) - modification for Murano Z51 (2008–2014) with the same
VQ35DE, but with improved electronics and adaptive switching logic. The mode appeared hereManual Modewith paddle shifters. - ⚡ CVT Xtronic (JF017E) - debuted in Murano Z52 (2015–present) with engines
VQ35DD(3.5L hybrid) andQR25DE(2.5 l). The CVT provided a smooth ride but was controversial due to durability.
Key Difference CVT from a classic automatic transmission — no fixed gears. Instead, a pulley and belt system is used, which allows the gear ratio to be infinitely varied. However variators Nissan Z52 generations require oil changes every 60,000 km, while RE0F10A/D can last up to 90,000 km with gentle operation.
⚠️ Attention: If your Murano Z52 Models from 2015 to 2018 are equipped with a CVT, check for a firmware update for the transmission ECU. Early versions had a bug that caused the oil to overheat when towing.
| Generation | Automatic transmission type | Oil volume (l) | Recommended oil | Average resource (thousand km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z50 (2002–2007) | RE0F10A (5-automatic transmission) | 9.5–10.5 | Nissan Matic S or Idemitsu Type-J |
250–300 |
| Z51 (2008–2014) | RE0F10D (5-automatic transmission) | 9.0–9.8 | Nissan Matic D |
300–350 |
| Z52 (2015–present) | CVT Xtronic (CVT) | 8.0–8.5 | Nissan NS-3 |
180–220* |
* The service life of the variator greatly depends on driving style and regular maintenance.
- Classic 5-automatic (RE0F10A/D)
- CVT (Z52)
- I don't know how to determine
- Other
Signs of automatic transmission failure: when to sound the alarm
An automatic transmission rarely fails suddenly - it is usually preceded by symptoms, which owners ignore for months. Here are the key signals that require diagnosis:
- 🚨 Jerks when switching - especially when cold or during acceleration. For Murano Z50/Z51 this may indicate wear of the clutches, for Z52 - for problems with the variator belt.
- 🔥 Burning smell from automatic transmission oil - a sign of overheating. In CVTs, a clogged cooling radiator is often to blame.
- 🛑 Switching delays (more than 1.5 seconds) - may be caused by low oil level or faulty solenoids.
- 💧 Oil leaks under the box - check the seals and pan. IN Murano Z51 The speedometer shaft seal often leaks.
Particularly dangerous "kicks" symptom in the variator Z52 — sharp jolts during acceleration. This may indicate wear of pulley cones or variator chain failure. Ignoring this sign leads to complete failure of the box within 1–2 thousand km..
⚠️ Attention: If the icon on the dashboard lights up AT TEMP (automatic transmission overheating), stop immediately and let the transmission cool. Continuing to drive may damage the clutches or the variator belt.
How to check the oil level in a Murano automatic transmission?
To check the oil level in a classic automatic transmission (RE0F10A/D), warm the box to 60–80°C, then on a flat surface, move the selector through all modes and leave in position P. Pull out the dipstick (located to the right of the engine), wipe it clean and reinsert it. Normal level is between the marks HOT MIN/MAX. In the variator Z52 There is no dipstick: the level is checked through the inspection hole at the bottom of the box (a lift is required).
Automatic transmission maintenance: how to extend the life of the transmission
Automatic transmission service life Nissan Murano directly depends on regularity of service. The manufacturer claims that the automatic transmission is filled with oil “for its entire service life,” but in practice this is not the case. Here are the minimum requirements:
- 🔄 Oil change:
- For Z50/Z51 (RE0F10A/D) - every
60,000–80,000 km.- For Z52 (variator) - every
40,000–60,000 km(in difficult conditions - once every 30,000 km). - 🧹 Replacing the filter - Mandatory at every oil change. In a variator, the filter is integrated into the pan and requires complete disassembly.
- 🔧 Radiator check - especially relevant for Murano Z52, where the variator heats up more than the classic automatic transmission.
To change oil, use only original fluids:
- Z50/Z51: Nissan Matic D (article KE908-99931).
- Z52: Nissan NS-3 (article KE908-99945).
The use of analogues (for example, Mobil ATF 3309) is acceptable, but reduces the life of the box by 10–15%.
Warm up the box to operating temperature (drive 10–15 km)|
Prepare a new pan gasket (part no. 31397-31X01 for Z50/Z51)|
Buy oil with a reserve (you will need 10–12 liters for a complete change)|
Check the availability of a special tool for removing the pallet (10 mm socket with extension) -->
For CVT Z52 critical to follow radiator cleanliness. Clogged honeycombs cause the oil to overheat, which destroys the belt and pulleys. It is recommended to flush the radiator every 100,000 km or when changing the oil if it has become dark.
If you often tow a trailer or drive off-road, install an additional automatic transmission cooler. This will extend the life of the box by 30–40%.
Common breakdowns and their causes
Each model Murano has typical automatic transmission "diseases". Let's break them down by generation:
Murano Z50 (2002–2007, RE0F10A)
Main problems:
- Solenoid wear - manifests itself as delays when switching to 2nd or 3rd gear. Solution: replacing solenoids (set item no. 31726-31X00).
- Shank seal leak — oil gets into the clutch, which leads to slipping. Requires oil seal replacement and clutch cleaning.
Murano Z51 (2008–2014, RE0F10D)
The most reliable box in the line, but not without its drawbacks:
- Speedometer shaft bearing wear — causes a hum at speeds of 60–80 km/h. Treated by replacing the bearing (article no. 32705-31X00).
- Valve block contamination — leads to kicks when switching. Requires disassembly and washing.
Murano Z52 (2015–present, CVT)
The CVT is the weakest point of this generation. Typical breakdowns:
- CVT belt wear - manifests itself as slippage during acceleration. Repairs cost 80–120 thousand rubles. (replacement of belt + pulleys).
- Oil overheating — leads to the formation of chips and jamming of the cones. A faulty thermostat or clogged radiator is often to blame.
CVT repair cost Z52 starts from 150,000 rub. for major repairs. In 70% of cases, breakdowns occur due to untimely oil change or using non-original fluids.
If your Murano Z52 has run more than 100,000 km, be sure to check the condition of the variator belt during diagnostics. Its resource rarely exceeds 150,000 km, and a break leads to the destruction of the entire box.
Automatic transmission diagnostics: how to check the box yourself
Before going to the service center, you can perform primary diagnosis on your own. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Oil check:
- Color: should be red-brown. Black or with metal shavings - urgently for replacement.
- Odor: A burnt odor indicates overheating.
- Test drive:
- Accelerate to 60 km/h, observing the smoothness of the shifts.
- Check the reaction to kickdown (sharp pressing of the gas pedal).
- Reading errors:
- Connect the scanner (for example,
Launch CReader) to the connectorOBD-II(located under the steering wheel).- Errors with the code
P07xxrefer to automatic transmission.
For in-depth diagnostics you will need computer check on specialized equipment (for example, Nissan Consult). The cost of diagnostics in the service is from 1,500 to 3,000 rub.
⚠️ Attention: If when switching fromDonRa metallic knock is heard, this may indicate wear on the torque converter bushing. Ignoring the problem will lead to destruction of the turbine wheels.
Repair vs. replacement: which is more profitable for Murano
The cost of automatic transmission repair depends on the type of breakdown and generation of the crossover. Let's look at the average prices for Moscow and the regions:
| Type of repair | Z50/Z51 (5-automatic) | Z52 (CVT) |
|---|---|---|
| Oil change + filter | 3,000–5,000 rub. | 5,000–8,000 rub. |
| Solenoid repair | 15,000–25,000 rub. | 20,000–35,000 rub. |
| Major renovation | 50,000–90,000 rub. | 120,000–200,000 rub. |
| Replacement with a contract automatic transmission | 80,000–120,000 rub. | 150,000–250,000 rub. |
What is more profitable - repairing or buying a contract box? The answer depends on the mileage:
- Before 150,000 km — repair is advisable.
- Over 200,000 km — it is often cheaper to supply a contract automatic transmission with a guarantee.
When choosing a contract box, pay attention to:
- Mileage (optimally up to 100,000 km).
- Availability of warranty (minimum 6 months).
- Condition of the oil (must be fresh).
Operating tips: how to avoid breakdowns
Extend the life of the automatic transmission Nissan Murano Following simple rules will help:
- 🚗 Avoid abrupt starts - especially in cold weather. Let the oil warm up for 2-3 minutes.
- 🔄 Do not tow heavy trailers — variator Z52 not designed for loads over 1,500 kg.
- 🛑 Don't change the selector while driving - this destroys the clutches.
- 💧 Monitor the oil level — its deficiency leads to oil starvation and bearing wear.
For Murano Z52 with a variator it is especially important:
- Do not keep the car on a slope at "D" - use the handbrake or mode N.
- Avoid slipping - this instantly overheats the variator belt.
If you often get stuck in traffic jams, check the color of the automatic transmission oil every 2-3 months. In such conditions, it ages 2 times faster.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions from owners Nissan Murano about automatic transmission
Is it possible to drive with burnt automatic transmission oil?
No. Burnt oil loses its lubricating properties and contains abrasive particles that accelerate wear of clutches and bearings. If the oil turns black or smells like burning, it needs to be urgently replaced and the box washed. In advanced cases, valve body repair may be required.
How much does it cost to change the oil in a variator? Murano Z52?
The cost depends on the replacement method:
- Partial replacement (3–4 liters): 3,000–5,000 rub.
- Complete replacement (8–9 liters, with flushing): RUB 7,000–12,000.
A complete replacement is recommended, since with a partial replacement, up to 40% of the old oil remains in the box.
What resource does the variator have? Murano Z52?
If you follow the maintenance schedule (oil change every 40–60 thousand km), the variator will last 180,000–220,000 km. However, in real conditions (traffic jams, off-road conditions) the resource is reduced to 120,000–150,000 km. The key factor is the quality of the oil and the absence of overheating.
Is it possible to use non-original oil in an automatic transmission?
Theoretically yes, but with reservations. For Murano Z50/Z51 analogues are suitable Idemitsu Type-J or Ravenol ATF, but they must meet the specification Nissan Matic D. For CVT Z52 strictly recommended only Nissan NS-3 - other oils can cause the belt to slip.
What to do if the automatic transmission stops shifting gears?
Stop immediately and call a tow truck. Continuing to move may destroy the box. Possible reasons:
- Broken variator belt (for Z52).
- Valve block failure (for Z50/Z51).
- Box ECU malfunction.
Self-repair is not possible - diagnostics at a service center is required.