Cabin filter in Nissan Murano is not just a consumable, but a key element of comfort and safety. Over time, it becomes clogged with dust, bacteria and even mold spores, turning the ventilation system into a source of unpleasant odors and allergens. If you notice that the interior has become stuffy and the air conditioning is working worse, it’s time to act.

In this article you will find detailed instructions for replacement with photos, recommendations for choosing a filter (including analogues), as well as unique nuances for Murano Z51 and Z52, which are not written about in standard manuals. We will look at why you cannot ignore this procedure, even if “everything is working”, and how to avoid common installation errors.

Where is the cabin air filter located in the Nissan Murano?

Unlike many crossovers, where the filter is hidden behind the glove compartment, in Murano (all generations, including restyling 2021) it is located under the dashboard on the passenger side. Exact location:

  • 🔧 Nissan Murano Z51 (2015–2020): behind the decorative cover under the glove box, to the left of the central tunnel.
  • 🔄 Nissan Murano Z52 (2021–2026): similar, but the cover can be secured with latches instead of screws.
  • ⚠️ On versions with Bose Audio access is a little more difficult - you will have to move the mat and remove the additional plastic cover.

To avoid wasting time, immediately prepare your tools: a flat-head screwdriver (or a plastic spatula) and a flashlight - the lighting in this area is usually low. If you have Murano with right-hand drive (for example, Japanese version), the filter will be mirrored.

⚠️ Attention: On some trim levels Murano For 2018–2019 model years, the filter can be glued to the fan housing. Do not pull it by force - first carefully pry up the corner and check for the presence of the adhesive layer.

When should you change the cabin filter?

The manufacturer recommends replacement every 15,000 km or once a year, but these figures are arbitrary. The actual period depends on the operating conditions:

Operating conditions Recommended replacement interval Signs of wear
City (moderate dustiness) 12–15 thousand km Faint smell of dust when turning on the fan
Megapolis (smog, construction dust) 8–10 thousand km Black particles on the panel, poor airflow
Countryside (dusty roads) 5–7 thousand km Visible dirt on the filter during visual inspection
Allergies/asthma in passengers Every 6 months Increased symptoms in the cabin

If you often drive in traffic jams or park under poplar trees, the filter may become clogged after 5–6 thousand km. Please note mold smell - this is a signal that the filter is not only dirty, but has also become a breeding ground for bacteria. In such cases, it is better to choose the option with activated carbon.

📊 How often do you change the cabin filter?
  • Every 10,000 km
  • Once a year
  • Only when the smell appears
  • Never changed
  • Another option

Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Murano?

Original filter from Nissan has an article number 27277-4M00A (for Z51) and 27277-4M01A (for Z52). Its average price is 1,200–1,500 rubles. However, there are worthy analogues that often surpass the original in quality:

  • 🔹 Mann Filter CU 29003 — best price/quality balance, coal option CUK 29003.
  • 🔹 Bosch 1 987 429 660 — high dust holding capacity, but a little tougher than the original.
  • 🔹 Filtron K 1321 - budget option (from 400 rubles), but without coal.
  • 🔹 Denso DCF36-8P — Japanese quality, suitable for versions with climate control.

When choosing, pay attention to dimensions: 240x200x25 mm (for Z51) and 245x205x20 mm (for Z52). If you take a carbon filter, check that the layer of carbon is even - cheap fakes often have bald spots. There are also multilayer filters (For example, HEPA), but they may impair air flow due to their high density.

⚠️ Attention: On Murano with the system Plasma Cluster (air ionizer) filters with a metallized coating cannot be installed - this may cause a short circuit in the climate control unit.
How to spot a fake filter?

The original Nissan filter has:

- Logo on the plastic case (not a sticker!)

- Smooth edges without burrs

- Marking of the article with laser (not paint)

- The carbon layer does not crumble when pressed lightly

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

The process takes 10–15 minutes and does not require special skills. Follow these instructions to avoid damaging latches or ducts:

  1. Open the glove compartment and remove all items from it. On Murano 2020+ glove compartment may have shock absorbers - carefully remove them by pulling up.
  2. Remove the decorative cover:
    • On Z51: Unscrew 2 screws Torx T20 at the bottom.
    • On Z52: Press the latches on the sides and pull the cover towards you.
  • Remove the old filter. It may “stick” to the body - do not pull it, but carefully pry it from the side with a screwdriver.
  • Clean the seat vacuum cleaner or damp cloth. Check for leaves or insects in the ductwork.
  • Install a new filter, observing the direction of the arrow (must indicate down, in the direction of air movement).
  • Reassemble everything in reverse order. Make sure that the lid is seated tightly - otherwise there will be a whistling noise when the fan operates.

    • - Are there any gaps between the filter and the housing?

    - Is the decorative cover latched correctly?

    - Does the fan work at all speeds?

    - Has the unpleasant smell disappeared-->

    If, after installing a new filter, whistling or noises, most likely it is installed crookedly or does not fit in size. On Murano with the system Auto A/C after replacement, you may need to reset the climate control settings (press the button AUTO for 10 seconds).

    💡

    Before installing a new filter, take a photo of the old one - this way you won’t be mistaken with the direction of the arrow and the side (sometimes manufacturers change the location of the marks).

    Typical replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even such a simple procedure can turn into problems if the nuances are not taken into account. Here are the most common mistakes owners make Murano:

    • 🔴 Wrong filter direction. The arrow must point down (along the air flow). If you put it the other way around, the filter will clog 2 times faster.
    • 🔴 Ignoring the seal. The original filters have a rubber edging - it prevents the suction of unfiltered air. If you don't have it, buy the seal separately.
    • 🔴 Damage to the lid latches. On Z52 The plastic is fragile - do not press on the cover when installing, but first align all the grooves.
    • 🔴 Forgetting to clean the drain. There is a small hole under the filter to drain condensate - if it is clogged, there will be dampness in the cabin.

    Another common problem is problems after replacement. For example, if your air conditioner stops working after installing a new filter, check:

    • Is the temperature sensor connector (located next to the filter) disconnected?
    • Has debris gotten into the fan (a grinding noise is heard when turned on).
    • Are the climate control settings lost (reset via ENGINE START → SETUP → CLIMATE).
    💡

    If, after replacing the filter, a burning smell appears in the cabin, immediately turn off the fan and check whether a foreign object (for example, a forgotten screwdriver) has entered the air duct.

    How to extend the life of the cabin filter?

    Even the most expensive filter will last longer if you follow simple rules:

    • 🌿 Clean air intakes regularly (they are located near the windshield under the hood). Use a vacuum cleaner or compressor.
    • 🚗 Park with your nose to the wind — this way less dust will get into the cabin.
    • 🔄 Turn on recirculation in traffic jams or when driving on dusty roads.
    • 💨 Ventilate the interior after rain to avoid mold.
    • 🛠️ Change the filter before winter — humid air clogs pores faster.

    If you often drive off-road, you can install prefilter (mesh on the air intake). It traps large particles and extends the life of the main filter. For Murano universal mesh is suitable K&N or Spectre with a cell of 1–2 mm.

    It is also useful to process the filter once every 3 months antibacterial spray (For example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger). This kills bacteria and eliminates odors, but does not replace mechanical cleaning.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano cabin filter

    Is it possible to wash the cabin filter instead of replacing it?

    Technically yes, but this is a temporary solution. A paper or synthetic filter loses up to 60% of its filtering capacity after washing. If you still decide to rinse:

    1. Use just water (no detergents).
    2. Dry naturally (not a hairdryer!).
    3. Install it back only after completely dry (minimum 24 hours).

    This filter will not last much longer. 1–2 months.

    Why did the cabin become stuffy after replacing the filter?

    The reasons may be different:

    • 🔹 Filter installed wrong side (air flow is blocked).
    • 🔹 Purchased a filter with too high density (e.g. HEPA for residential air conditioners).
    • 🔹 Got stuck engine air filter (affects the operation of climate control).
    • 🔹 Defective air quality sensor (located next to the filter).

    Also check if the mode is enabled RECIRCULATION (recirculation) - it does not receive air from the street.

    Which filter is better - carbon or regular?

    The choice depends on the conditions:

    Filter type Pros Cons Who is it suitable for?
    Normal (dust) Cheap, does not impair blowing Does not retain gases or odors Rural area, little traffic
    Coal Absorbs odors and harmful gases More expensive, may clog faster City, traffic jams, allergies

    For Murano with the system Plasma Cluster It’s better to take coal - it additionally purifies the air from ozone, which is produced by the ionizer.

    Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

    Absolutely not. Without filter:

    • 🔹 The salon will get dust, soot and insects.
    • 🔹 Will clog quickly air conditioner evaporator (repair from RUB 15,000).
    • 🔹 The load on stove fan (may burn).
    • 🔹 Will appear in the air ducts mold (can only be eliminated by completely disassembling the dashboard).

    If the filter is torn or out of shape, replace it immediately.

    Where can I buy a cabin filter for Murano cheaper?

    Filter prices can vary greatly:

    • 🛒 Official dealer: 1,200–1,500 rub. (original), but they often charge a premium for the work.
    • 🛒 Online stores (Exist.ru, Autodoc): 300–800 rub. (analogues).
    • 🛒 Spare parts markets: risk of running into a fake (check the packaging!).
    • 🛒 Auctions (eBay, AliExpress): You can find rare filters, but delivery takes up to 1 month.

    The best option is to order from a trusted online store with a guarantee. For example, Mann CU 29003 on Autodoc costs about 600 rubles, and the quality is not inferior to the original.