Nissan Murano Z51: engine oil volume, oil selection and replacement nuances

Introduction: Why is it important to know the exact oil volume for Nissan Murano Z51

Crossover owners Nissan Murano third generation (body Z51, 2015–2026) are often faced with the question: how much oil to pour into the engine when changing? An error in volume can lead to oil starvation, overheating or even turbine failure (on versions with VQ35DD). This article contains exact data on volumes for all modifications Murano Z51, including hybrid ones, as well as recommendations on oil selection and replacement nuances.

The manufacturer indicates different volumes depending on the type of engine and operating conditions. For example, for atmospheric QR25DE (2.5 l) required 4.4 liters with filter replacement, and for VQ35DD (3.5 l) - already 5.4 liters. But there are also hidden points: when completely flushing the system or after a major overhaul, the volume can increase by 0.3–0.5 liters. We will analyze all cases.

Official data: oil volume by engine type Murano Z51

The table below shows the exact values ​​from the service manuals Nissan for different modifications Z51. Please note that the volume is indicated including oil filter replacement (unless otherwise stated). For hybrid versions, the data is different - this is covered in a separate section.

Engine	Oil volume (l)	Oil type (according to SAE)	Engine code	Notes
2.5 l gasoline (atmospheric)	4.4	5W-30	QR25DE	For markets with strict environmental regulations (eg USA)
3.5 l gasoline (atmospheric)	5.4	5W-30	VQ35DE	Basic version for Russia and CIS
3.5 l petrol (direct injection)	5.5	0W-20 or 5W-30	VQ35DD	Requires approved oil ILSAC GF-5
2.5 l hybrid	4.1	0W-20	QR25DER + electric motor	Volume for internal combustion engines only, excluding transmission fluid

⚠️ Attention: For engines VQ35DD (with direct injection) Nissan recommends oil 0W-20 for new cars (up to 100 thousand km). After this run you can move on to 5W-30, but only with permission API SN or higher.

If you purchased Murano Z51 with mileage, be sure to check what oil the previous owner used. Abrupt transition from 0W-20 on 5W-40 may cause problems with VVL (variable valve timing system) due to different viscosity during cold start.

How to check the oil level in Murano Z51: step by step instructions

Even if you have filled in the correct amount, the oil level must be monitored. B Murano Z51 The probe is located inconveniently - its handle is painted yellow and hidden behind the air duct pipe. Here's how to check the level correctly:

1. Warm up the engine to operating temperature (at least 5 minutes at idle).
2. Turn off the car and wait 10 minutes — the oil should drain into the pan.
3. Remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean cloth and insert it back until it stops.
4. Take the dipstick out again and check the level: it should be between the marks MIN And MAX.

⚠️ Attention: On hybrid versions Murano Z51 The oil level is checked when turned off engine (unlike gasoline modifications). This is due to the peculiarities of the system's operation. Start/Stop.

If the level is lower MIN, add oil in small portions (100 ml), checking the dipstick each time. Exceeding the level above MAX is fraught with squeezing out the seals and getting oil into the crankcase ventilation system.

Make sure the car is on a level surface|

Warm up the engine to operating temperature|

Wait 10 minutes after stopping the engine|

Use a clean, lint-free cloth for the dipstick-->

What kind of oil to put in Nissan Murano Z51: manufacturer's recommendations

Nissan strictly regulates the types of oils for Z51, especially for engines with direct injection (VQ35DD). Using the wrong oil can cause deposits on the valves and reduce timing chain life. Here are the official requirements:

• 🔹 For 2.5 l (QR25DE): 5W-30 with permission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Suitable brands: Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30, Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30.
• 🔹 For 3.5 l (VQ35DE): 5W-30 or 5W-40 (for hot climates). Recommended Nissan Strong Save X 5W-40.
• 🔹 For 3.5 l with direct injection (VQ35DD): only 0W-20 with permission ILSAC GF-5 (For example, Pennzoil Platinum 0W-20).
• 🔹 For hybrids (QR25DER): 0W-20 with energy-saving additives (for example, Castrol EDGE 0W-20).

⚠️ Attention: In engines VQ35DD It is strictly forbidden to use oil with a viscosity higher 5W-30 (For example, 10W-40). This is due to the design of the lubrication system and the risk of air pockets in the channels of the cylinder head.

If you are exploiting Murano Z51 in severe frost conditions (below –30°C), a temporary switch to 0W-20 even for naturally aspirated engines. However, after warming up, the oil must be replaced with the recommended one.

Oil change intervals: when to change and why you shouldn’t delay

Official regulations Nissan for Z51 provides for oil changes every 15,000 km or once a year (whichever comes first). However, this interval is relevant only for ideal operating conditions:

• 🚗 Driving on the highway at an average speed of 60–90 km/h.
• 🌡️ Moderate climate (from –20°C to +30°C).
• 🛣️ High-quality fuel (octane number not lower than 95).

In reality the majority of owners Murano Z51 encounter "severe" conditions that reduce the replacement interval to 10,000 km:

• 🏙️ Frequent trips around the city with traffic jams (the engine runs at idle).
• 🏔️ Driving on off-road or dusty roads.
• ❄️ Operation at extreme temperatures (below –25°C or above +35°C).
• 🚜 Towing a trailer or transporting heavy loads.

⚠️ Attention: In engines VQ35DD (with direct injection) the oil degrades faster due to high temperatures in the combustion chamber. If you notice that the oil has turned black or has a burning smell, replace it regardless of mileage.

For hybrid versions Murano Z51 The oil change interval can be extended to 20,000 km, but only when using synthetic oil 0W-20 with additive package Low SAPS (low sulfated ash content).

What happens if you don't change the oil on time?

If the oil change interval is exceeded Nissan Murano Z51 the risks are as follows:

1. **Formation of sludge** in the channels of the lubrication system (especially relevant for VQ35DD).

2. **Wear of the timing chain** - the oil loses its cleaning properties, and wear products act as an abrasive.

3. **Valve jamming VVL** (variable valve timing systems) due to deposits.

4. **Increased fuel consumption** - old oil increases friction in piston-cylinder pairs.

5. **Engine overheating** - heat dissipation through the oil deteriorates.

Step-by-step instructions: how to change the oil yourself Murano Z51

Changing the oil in Z51 does not require special skills, but there are nuances associated with the location of the oil filter and drain plug. You will need:

• 🔧 14 mm wrench (for drain plug).
• 🔧 Oil filter puller (the filter is located vertically, you can’t get it with a regular wrench).
• 🛢️ New oil (see the table above for volume).
• 🛢️ New oil filter (original number - 15208-9F600 for 3.5 l or 15208-65F0E for 2.5 l).
• 🔧 Drain plug gasket (copper, no. 11026-01M02).
• 🧹 Funnel and container for used oil (minimum 6 l).

Sequence of actions:

1. Warm up the engine to operating temperature (the oil will become less viscous and drain better).
2. Raise the car on a lift or drive it into a viewing hole. The drain plug is located right (in the direction of travel) on a pallet.
3. Unscrew the drain plug with a 14 mm wrench and drain the oil into a container. Be careful - the oil is hot!
4. While the oil is draining, replace the oil filter. It is located front of the engine, closer to the radiator. Before installing a new filter, lubricate the rubber O-ring with fresh oil.
5. Install a new gasket on the drain plug and tighten it torque 35–40 Nm (do not overtighten!).
6. Pour new oil through the filler neck on the valve cover. Use a funnel to avoid spills.
7. Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes. Check the oil level and add if necessary.

⚠️ Attention: On hybrid versions Murano Z51 After changing the oil, you need to reset the maintenance counter. To do this:

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.

Common mistakes when changing oil and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that can lead to serious problems. Here are the most common ones when servicing Nissan Murano Z51:

• 🔧 Re-tightening the drain plug - leads to cutting of threads in the pan. The tightening torque should not exceed 40 Nm.
• 🛢️ Underfilling or overfilling of oil - both are harmful. The optimal level is in the middle between MIN And MAX.
• 🔄 Using oil without approval ILSAC GF-5 - especially critical for VQ35DDwhere low phosphorus content is required.
• 🧴 Saving on oil filter — non-original filters may not withstand the pressure in the system, which leads to their destruction.
• 🚫 Ignoring engine flushing when switching from one type of oil to another (for example, from 5W-40 on 0W-20).

⚠️ Attention: If after changing the oil the indicator on the dashboard comes on Check Engine, this may indicate a faulty oil pressure sensor. B Murano Z51 it is located next to the oil filter and is sometimes damaged when replaced carelessly.

Another typical problem is oil leak from under the valve cover. This occurs due to wear of the gasket or improper tightening of the bolts (torque required 10–12 Nm in a certain sequence). If you notice oil stains on the engine, check the seal of the cover.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about oil in Nissan Murano Z51

Can I use 5W-40 oil instead of 5W-30 in a 3.5L engine?

For atmospheric VQ35DE (3.5 l) oil 5W-40 allowed, but only if you operate the car in a hot climate (temperatures above +30°C). For engines with direct injection (VQ35DD) 5W-40 is prohibited - it is too thick for the lubrication system.

How much oil does it take to change and flush the engine?

When flushing the system (for example, after purchasing a used car), you will need to 0.5–0.7 l more standard volume. For VQ35DD it will be 6.0–6.2 l, for QR25DE — 4.8–5.0 l. It is better to wash with a special liquid (for example, Liqui Moly Pro-Line Motorspulung), rather than regular oil.

What kind of oil should I put in the Murano Z51 hybrid?

For hybrid versions with engine QR25DER Nissan recommends only 0W-20 with permission ILSAC GF-5 and labeling Resource Conserving. Suitable options: Idemitsu Zepro Eco Medalist 0W-20 or Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20.

What should I do if the pressure light comes on after changing the oil?

If the oil pressure lamp stays on for longer than 3–5 seconds after starting, the following reasons are possible:

1. Insufficient oil level (check dipstick).
2. Malfunction of the oil pump or pressure sensor.
3. Oil filter clogged (if a non-original filter was used).
4. Wear of crankshaft liners (requires diagnostics).

Stop the engine immediately and check the oil level. If the lamp continues to light, contact service.

Is it possible to mix oils from different manufacturers?

Mix oils not recommended, but in emergency cases (for example, on the road), you can add oil of the same viscosity class and with a similar tolerance. After this, perform a complete oil change as soon as possible. B Murano Z51 It is especially important to avoid mixing oils with different additive contents (e.g. Low SAPS and standard).