How to remove the front bumper on a Nissan Murano: instructions with photos and tips

Removing the front bumper Nissan Murano - a task that every owner of this crossover faces sooner or later. The reasons can be different: from a banal replacement of foglights or parking sensors to serious repairs after an accident or installation of a tuning kit. Car services charge from 3 to 8 thousand rubles for this work, but if you have the tools and patience, you can do it yourself - the main thing is to know sequence of actions And key nuances.

In this article we will analyze the process of removing the bumper on all generations Murano (including restyled versions Z50, Z51 And Z52), we indicate necessary tools, we will show fastening diagrams and warn about typical mistakes. We will pay special attention hidden latches under the headlights and radiator grille - their damage can result in costly replacement of parts. If you plan to work alone, prepare supports or an assistant in advance: bumper Murano weighs 8–12 kg and has an awkward center of gravity.

What tools will you need for the job?

Before starting dismantling, check that all tools are present. Without some items (for example, plastic spatulas) the risk of damaging the clips or paintwork increases significantly. Here's the full list:

• 🔧 A set of sockets and a ratchet wrench (necessarily with an extension)
• 🛠️ Screwdrivers: Phillips (PH2), flat (3–5 mm), Torx T20 And T25
• 🧰 Plastic spatulas for removing clips (minimum 2 pieces)
• 🔨 Hammer (for carefully knocking out soured bolts)
• 🔦 Flashlight or carrier with LED lighting
• 🧲 Magnet on the telescopic handle (for finding fallen bolts)
• 📦 Organizer for fasteners (so as not to mix up the bolts during assembly)

For Nissan Murano Z52 (2015–2023) additional may be required special wrench for hexagon socket bolts (size 10 mm). These bolts are used to secure the bumper to the subframe in the fog lamp area. If you don’t have such a key at hand, you can get by Torx T40, but it is less convenient for them to work.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use metal spatulas or chisels to remove clips! Bumper plastic Murano fragile, especially in the cold. At temperatures below +5°C, it is recommended to warm up the bumper with a hair dryer (mode 40–50°C) or leave the car in a warm box for 1–2 hours.

Preparing the car: what needs to be done before removal

Improper preparation can lead to damage to parking sensors, broken wiring or even deformation of the bumper. Follow this checklist:

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (to avoid short circuit)

Remove fog lights (if installed)

Disconnect the parking sensor connectors (if equipped)

Remove the decorative trim under the radiator grille

Clean the mounting points from dirt (especially in the wheel arches) -->

Pay special attention parking sensors. On Murano Z51 (2011–2014) they are attached to the bumper with latches, and the wires go through rubber seals. If you pull the bumper without disconnecting the connectors, you can break the wiring or tear the sensor away from the mount. On newer models (Z52) the sensors are integrated into the bumper and connected through a single cable - here the risk is lower, but accuracy is still required.

If you remove the bumper to painting or repair, mark in advance with a marker the joints of the parts (for example, connecting seams with wings). This will help avoid distortions during assembly. It is also useful to photograph the location of all clips and bolts - on Murano There are more than 20 of them, and they vary in size!

Step-by-step instructions: remove the front bumper

The dismantling process takes 1.5–3 hours depending on experience. We will break it down into steps with photos and tips for each step. Let's start with upper mounts:

1. Removing the radiator grille. On Murano Z50/Z51 it is attached to 4 clips (2 on each side) and two bolts from below. On Z52 Latches have been added on the sides - they need to be pressed out with a plastic spatula. Pull the grate towards you exactly, without distortions, otherwise you will break the fastenings.

2. Removing fog lights (if equipped). Unscrew the mounting bolts (usually 10 mm), disconnect the power connector and carefully remove the headlight from the socket. On Z52 The fog lights can be glued to the bumper with sealant - use thread or a plastic scraper to separate them.

3. Unscrew the bolts under the hood. There are 6 of them: 4 at the edges (closer to the wings) and 2 in the middle. On restyled versions, bolts have been added under the decorative trim - they are easy to miss!

4. Remove the bumper from the latches in the wheel arches. Here is the most difficult part: you need to press out 3-4 clips on each side at the same time. Use two spatulas or ask an assistant. On Murano with the system ProPILOT There may be additional sensors in the arches - do not damage them!

After unscrewing all the bolts, the bumper needs to be moved forward (in the direction of travel of the car) by 5–7 cm to release the latches on the wings. Then carefully lower it down, supporting it by the edges. Do not pull the bumper towards yourself - this way you risk tearing off the mountings of the parking sensors!

Model Murano	Number of bolts	Type of clips	Features
Z50 (2003–2007)	8 bolts, 12 clips	Plastic disposable	Difficulties with latches under the headlights
Z51 (2008–2014)	10 bolts, 14 clips	Metal with rubber inserts	Additional fastenings under the grille
Z52 (2015–2023)	12 bolts, 16 clips	Combined (plastic + metal)	System sensors Safety Shield in the arches

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with bumpers. Murano. Here are the most common ones and how to prevent them:

• 🔧 Broken threads on bolts. This is especially true for bolts in wheel arches - they often rust. Always use WD-40 and don't try too hard. If the bolt does not fit, try screwing the nut onto it and unscrewing it together.
• 💡 Damage to clips. On Murano Z50 The clips are fragile and break if removed carelessly. Buy a set of new ones in advance (item no. Nissan 08915-JA00A for Z50/Z51).
• 📡 Broken sensor wiring. On models with Around View Monitor the wires go through the bumper to the cameras. Before removing, disconnect all connectors and secure the wires with tape to prevent them from getting caught.
• 🎨 Scratches on the paint. Bumper Murano fits tightly to the wings. To avoid scratches, cover the edges of the wings with masking tape before dismantling.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Murano Z52 with the system ProPILOT Assist radars and cameras are installed in the bumper. If you remove the bumper for painting, these sensors must be dismantled and taken to a service center for calibration! Self-installation without calibration will lead to system malfunctions.

What to do if the clip breaks?

If the clip is broken, do not try to install the bumper without replacing it - it will dangle and make squeaks. Temporary solution: use plastic ties of the appropriate size, but only to secure the bumper before going to the service center. For permanent repairs, buy original clips (see article numbers above) or analogues from 3M or HELLA.

Bumper installation: reassembly

Assembling a bumper is a process no less important than dismantling it. Here are the key points:

1. Check all clips and bolts. Make sure no parts are lost. On Murano Z51/Z52 The bolts under the grille and in the arches are different in length - you can’t mix them up!

2. Start with the top mounts. First, secure the bumper to the bolts under the hood, then snap the clips into the arches. This will help avoid distortions.

3. Connect the electrical. Make sure all sensor and headlight connectors are connected correctly. On Z52 check the system operation Blind Spot Warning after installation.

4. Adjust the gaps. The bumper should be evenly adjacent to the fenders and grille. If there are distortions, loosen the bolts and adjust the position.

After installation, check the operation of all systems:

• 🚗 Fog lights and dimensions
• 📶 Parking sensors and cameras Around View
• 🚨 Alarm (if shock sensors are located in the bumper)

When is the best time to contact the service?

Although removing the bumper Murano is within the capabilities of most car owners, there are situations when it is better to trust the professionals:

• 🔧 If the bumper is deformed after an accident and requires straightening or replacement — without special equipment it will not be possible to level it properly.
• 🎨 If planned bumper painting — the service will do this with a guarantee for the material and select the color according to the code Nissan.
• 🛠️ If your model has the system installed ProPILOT or Safety Shield — calibration of sensors requires diagnostic equipment.
• ⚡ If they were damaged during dismantling wires or connectors - Do-it-yourself electrical repairs can result in a short circuit.

Average cost of service:

Type of work	Price (RUB)
Removing/installing the bumper	3 000 – 5 000
Replacing clips and fasteners	500 – 1 500
Calibration of driver assistance systems	2 000 – 4 000

If you decide to use a service, choose one that specializes in Nissan. Official dealers have access to technical bulletins with current fastening diagrams for each modification Murano.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the bumper on a Nissan Murano

Is it possible to remove the bumper on a Murano without removing the grille?

Technically yes, but it will make the task much more difficult. Without removing the grille, you won't be able to remove the top bolts under the hood and risk breaking the clips. On Z52 Without dismantling the grille it is impossible to disconnect the system sensor connectors Safety Shield.

How many clips break on average the first time you remove them?

Statistics show that during the first independent dismantling, 2-3 clips break. Latches in wheel arches and under headlights are especially vulnerable. To minimize risk, use plastic spatulas and don't rush. On Murano Z50 the clips are fragile, Z52 - more durable, but also require care.

Do I need to remove the wheels to remove the bumper?

No, this is not necessary. It is enough to turn the wheels to the extreme position (to the left for the right side, to the right for the left) to gain access to the bolts in the arches. However, if you plan to work on wheel arch liners or change parking sensors, removing the wheels will make the task easier.

What sealant should I use to install fog lights?

For Nissan Murano It is recommended to use a butyl rubber based sealant (e.g. 3M 08609 or Teroson MS 930). It is elastic, does not flow and can withstand temperature changes. Apply a thin layer (1–2 mm) only to the joint between the headlight and bumper, avoiding contact with the threads of the bolts.

What should I do if after installing the bumper the “Check Around View” error is on?

This error indicates a problem with the Surround View cameras. The reasons may be the following:

• The connector of one of the cameras is not connected (check the connections under the bumper).
• Wires are damaged (inspect for kinks or breaks).
• Calibration required (at Z52 required after removing the bumper).

If everything is visually in order, contact the service for diagnostics. The error code can be read by the scanner (for example, Launch X431) to more accurately define the problem.