Engine oil for Nissan Murano Z51: how to choose and replace correctly

Nissan Murano Z51 is a crossover that has gained popularity due to its reliability, comfort and powerful engine. However, even the most durable engine requires quality maintenance, and one of the key aspects is the correct selection and timely replacement of oil. The wrong choice of lubricant can lead to accelerated wear of parts, overheating, or even serious damage.

In this article we will look at what oil the manufacturer recommends for VQ35DE (3.5 l) and QR25DE (2.5 l) - main engines Murano Z51, we will consider the optimal brands and viscosity, and also give step-by-step instructions for replacement. We will pay special attention to the nuances that even experienced car owners often miss.

Official Nissan oil recommendations for Murano Z51

The manufacturer clearly regulates the requirements for motor oil for Nissan Murano Z51 depending on the year of manufacture and engine type. For models with petrol engine VQ35DE (3.5 l) And QR25DE (2.5 l) The following standards are relevant:

• 🔹 Specification: API SL/SM/SN or ILSAC GF-3/GF-4/GF-5. For new cars (after 2010) it is preferable SN/GF-5.
• 🔹 Viscosity: 5W-30 - a universal option for most climatic zones of Russia. In the northern regions it is allowed 0W-20 or 0W-30, in the southern - 10W-40.
• 🔹 Volume: for VQ35DE — 4.5–4.7 l (with filter replacement), for QR25DE — 4.3–4.5 l.
• 🔹 Type: only synthetic or semi-synthetic high quality. Mineral oils are not allowed.

It is important to consider that Nissan does not produce its own oil, but cooperates with trusted brands. Often used in dealerships Nissan Oil (transfused Total Quartz or Idemitsu), however this is not the only option. The main thing is compliance with specifications.

⚠️ Attention: If your Murano Z51 is used in difficult conditions (frequent short trips, towing, extreme temperatures), the oil change interval should be reduced from 15,000 km to 10,000 km, even if synthetics are used.

The best oils for Nissan Murano Z51: rating based on owner reviews

Based on analysis of forums (including Drive2, Nissan-Club) and tests of independent laboratories, we have compiled a rating of oils that performed best in Murano Z51. The selection criteria were: viscosity stability, wear protection, engine cleanliness and compatibility with systems CVT (if applicable).

Brand and model	Viscosity	Specification	Benefits	Average price (4 l)
Total Quartz 9000 Energy	5W-30	API SN, ILSAC GF-5	Excellent cleaning power, low waste, recommended by dealers Nissan.	2 800–3 200 ₽
Mobil 1 ESP Formula	5W-30	API SN, ACEA C2/C3	Suitable for engines with particulate filters, extends turbine life (relevant for VQ35DE).	3 500–4 000 ₽
Idemitsu Zepro Touring	5W-30	API SN, ILSAC GF-5	Japanese quality, minimal waste, ideal for cold starts.	3 000–3 400 ₽
Liqui Moly Special Tec AA	5W-30	API SN, ILSAC GF-5	High thermal stability, protection against LSPI (pre-detonation ignition).	3 300–3 700 ₽
Castrol Edge Professional	5W-30	API SN, ACEA A5/B5	Technology Titanium FST to reduce friction, suitable for a sporty driving style.	3 800–4 200 ₽

Among the owners Murano Z51 Disputes often arise about the advisability of using oils with a viscosity 0W-20. The manufacturer allows their use, but only for new engines (up to 100,000 km) and in regions with frosts below -30°C. In other cases 5W-30 remains the best choice.

When and how often to change the oil in Murano Z51

Official regulations Nissan provides for oil changes every 15,000 km or 1 time per year (whichever comes first). However, this interval is relevant only for ideal operating conditions:

• 🚗 Driving along the highway at a constant speed.
• 🌡️ Moderate climate (from -20°C to +30°C).
• 🛣️ High-quality fuel (not lower than AI-95).
• 🔄 No frequent cold starts.

In reality the majority Murano Z51 are used in the city, where traffic jams, short trips and low-quality fuel reduce oil life. Therefore, experienced mechanics recommend adhering to the following intervals:

• 🔧 10,000 km - for synthetics (5W-30, 0W-30).
• 🔧 7,500 km - for semi-synthetics or under difficult conditions (taxi, towing).
• 🔧 5,000 km — if mineral oil is used (not recommended).

It is also worth paying attention to oil condition. If it darkens, becomes thick, or has a burning smell, it must be replaced ahead of schedule, regardless of mileage. B Murano Z51 with motor VQ35DE It is especially important to monitor the oil level, since this engine is prone to oil starvation in case of leaks or untimely replacement.

How to check the condition of the oil without a laboratory?

Open the oil filler cap and place a few drops of oil on a white paper towel. If stain:

- Light yellow with even edges - the oil is in good condition.

- Dark with a black center - requires replacement.

- C metal particles — critical engine wear, diagnostics are needed.

Step-by-step instructions for changing the oil in Nissan Murano Z51

Changing the oil in Murano Z51 - a procedure that can be performed independently with a minimum set of tools. The main thing is to follow safety precautions and not skimp on consumables. Below are detailed instructions for the engine VQ35DE (for QR25DE The algorithm is similar, except for the volume of oil).

New oil (4.7 l for VQ35DE)|New oil filter (original - 15208-9F600 or similar)|Filter wrench (65 mm cup)|14 mm wrench for drain plug|Funnel and waste container (minimum 5 l)|New sealing washer for plug (11026-01M02)|Gloves and rags

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Step 1. Preparing the car

Stop the engine and let it cool for 10-15 minutes (the oil should be warm, but not hot). Raise the car on a lift or use a jack with stops. Make sure that the machine is level - this is important for complete drainage of waste.

Step 2. Drain the old oil

Place a container under the drain plug (it is located on the oil pan). Using a 14 mm wrench, unscrew the plug, but not all the way - it is better to turn the last thread of the thread by hand so as not to get wet. Let the oil drain completely (at least 10 minutes).

Step 3: Replacing the oil filter

The filter is located to the right of the engine (when viewed in the direction of travel). Use the special key to unscrew it. Before installing a new filter, lubricate the rubber O-ring with fresh oil and tighten it by hand until it stops (do not overtighten!).

Step 4. Installing a new plug and adding oil

Replace the sealing washer on the drain plug and tighten it torque 35–40 Nm. Fill through the oil filler neck 4.2 l oil, then check the level with a dipstick. Add in 100 ml increments until the level reaches between MIN And MAX.

Step 5: Checking and starting the engine

Start the engine and let it idle for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the oil pressure light on the dashboard. Stop the engine, check the level again and top up if necessary. Also inspect the installation location of the filter and plug for leaks.

⚠️ Attention: If the indicator on the dashboard lights up after changing the oil CHECK ENGINE or OIL PRESSURE LOW, turn off the engine immediately! This may indicate a faulty oil pump or a clogged filter.

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).

2. Press the gas pedal all the way and hold for 10 seconds.

3. Release the pedal and turn off the ignition. The counter will reset to zero.-->

Common mistakes when changing oil and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that can lead to serious consequences. Here are the most common ones:

• 🛢️ Incomplete drainage of waste. If the oil is not allowed to drain completely, up to 200–300 ml of old oil will remain in the engine, which will worsen the properties of the new one. Solution: After draining, tilt the car to the right (from the filter side) 5–10° to remove any residue.
• 🔧 Oil filter reupholstery. This leads to deformation of the O-ring and leaks. Solution: tighten the filter only by hand, without using a wrench.
• 📏 Incorrect oil level. Both too little and too much oil are harmful. At a low level, oil starvation occurs, at a high level there is a risk of foaming and damage to the seals. Solution: Check the level on a flat surface 5 minutes after stopping the engine.
• 🔄 Ignoring replacement of the sealing washer. An old washer may sag, which leads to oil leakage. Solution: always use a new copper washer (costs pennies).

Another common mistake is the use of flushing fluids. B Murano Z51 With a mileage of more than 100,000 km, flushing can cause clogging of the oil channels with deposits, which it washes away. If you decide to flush the engine, use only soft rinses (For example, Liqui Moly Oil-Schlamm-Spulung) and reduce the interval to 5,000 km after replacement.

Also, do not mix oils of different brands or viscosities. If you urgently need to add oil, use the same brand and viscosity as when you changed it. As a last resort, it is allowed to add oil with similar specifications (API SN), but not more than 500 ml.

Features of oil for Nissan Murano Z51 with mileage over 150,000 km

With age the engine VQ35DE (and to a lesser extent QR25DE) begins to exhibit characteristic “diseases”: increased oil consumption, knocking of hydraulic compensators, loss of compression. In such cases, a special approach to choosing oil is required.

Problems and solutions:

• 🔥 Oil loss (more than 1 liter per 10,000 km). The reason is wear of the piston rings or oil seals. Solution: switch to higher viscosity oil (5W-40 or 10W-40) and anti-burn additives (for example, Liqui Moly Cera Tec).
• 🔊 Knock of hydraulic compensators. Often associated with clogged oil passages. Solution: use oil with high detergency (Idemitsu Zepro Eco Medalist) and reduce the replacement interval to 7,000 km.
• 🛢️ Leaks through seals. A sign of thickened oil or worn seals. Solution: flushing the engine with a soft composition and switching to oil with elastomers (for example, Castrol Edge High Mileage).

For engines with mileage of more than 200,000 km, some owners practice using filler compounds (For example, Xado Atomic Oil or Suprotec). However, their effectiveness is controversial, and before use you should consult with a mechanic. In some cases, such additives can make the situation worse by clogging the oil passages.

If oil consumption exceeds 1.5 liters per 10,000 km, and the engine emits blue smoke, it is most likely required major renovation. In this case, even the most expensive oil will not solve the problem - it will only delay it.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about oil in Nissan Murano Z51

Can I use 0W-20 oil in Murano Z51 instead of 5W-30?

Yes, but only if the car is operated in regions with frosts below -30°C and the engine mileage does not exceed 100,000 km. For most regions of Russia 5W-30 remains the best choice. Also keep in mind that 0W-20 may burn out faster in used engines.

Which oil filter is better - original or analogue?

Original filter (15208-9F600) is guaranteed to fit in size and has a high-quality filter element. Some analogues have proven themselves well:

• 🔹 Mann W 610/3 - German quality, high dirt holding capacity.
• 🔹 Framm PH7317 - affordable price, good compatibility.
• 🔹 Bosch 0 451 103 316 — reliable protection against counterfeiting.

The main thing is to avoid cheap no-name filters, which can rupture or do not clean the oil properly.

What to do if the Check Engine light comes on after changing the oil?

There may be several reasons:

1. Insufficient oil level - check with a dipstick and add if necessary.
2. Poor quality or unsuitable oil filter - replace with an original one.
3. Air entering the lubrication system - turn off the engine, let the oil drain into the pan (10-15 minutes) and start again.
4. Malfunction of the oil pressure sensor - diagnostics required.

If the lamp does not go out, contact the service for computer diagnostics.

How much oil to fill in Murano Z51 with 2.5 liter engine (QR25DE)?

For QR25DE oil volume is 4.3–4.5 l (with filter replacement). The exact amount depends on how completely the waste is drained. Always rely on the dipstick: the level should be between the marks MIN And MAX.

Is it possible to drive semi-synthetic in the Murano Z51?

Manufacturer recommends fully synthetic oil, but in extreme cases (for example, in the absence of an alternative), you can use high-quality semi-synthetics with a viscosity 5W-30 and specification API SN. However, the replacement interval in this case should be reduced to 7,000–8,000 km.