Throttle training <em>Nissan Murano Z51</em>: when you need it and how to do it yourself

Throttle valve Nissan Murano Z51 (2015–2022) with engines VQ35DE (3.5 l) or QR25DE (2.5 l) - a critical component responsible for supplying air to the cylinders. Over time, the electronic control unit (ECU) loses correct data about its position, which leads to jerks during acceleration, floating idle speed, or even turning on Check Engine with an error P0507 (high revs XX). Solving the problem - procedure learning (adaptation) of the throttle valve, which you can do yourself without visiting the service.

In this article we will analyze unique training nuances specifically for Murano Z51, including the differences between mechanical and electronic dampers, the consequences of incorrect adaptation, as well as step-by-step instructions taking into account the features of the ECU firmware Nissan after 2018. We will separately focus on how to avoid typical mistakes due to which the procedure is reset or leads to a deterioration in the dynamics of the car.

When is Throttle Learning Required on a Murano Z51?

Electronic Throttle Control (ETCS) in Murano Z51 requires adaptation in several cases. The main symptom is unstable engine operation, but there are other symptoms:

• 🔧 Replacement or cleaning of the throttle assembly (even if the damper was not completely removed).
• 🔋 Battery disconnection for more than 30 minutes (ECU resets calibration data).
• 🚗 Jerks when starting from a stop or pressing the gas sharply (especially when “cold”).
• 📛 Errors appear P0120, P0505, P2101 or P2119 in the ECU memory.
• 🔄 Replacing the engine control unit (ECM) or firmware.

Important: on Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE (3.5 l) training is mandatory after any manipulation of the throttle, whereas on QR25DE (2.5 l) sometimes resetting the adaptation through the diagnostic scanner is enough. However, ignoring the procedure risks increase in fuel consumption by 10–15% and premature wear of the catalyst.

⚠️ Attention: If after training the idle speed remains above 1000 rpm for more than 5 minutes, this indicates air leak or malfunction of the damper position sensor (TPS). In this case, diagnostics is required Nissan Consult or analogues.

Preparation for the procedure: tools and conditions

For successful throttle learning Murano Z51 you will need:

• 🔧 Diagnostic scanner with support Nissan (For example, Launch X431, Autel MaxiCOM or Nissan Consult III).
• 🔋 Charged battery (voltage not lower than 12.4 V).
• 🌡️ Engine temperature within 70–95°C (training “cold” will lead to errors).
• 🚗 Flat ground (no slopes) and neutral gear (on automatic transmission - mode P).

Feature Murano Z51: if the vehicle is equipped with a system Idling Stop (automatic engine shutdown), it is necessary deactivate through the on-board computer menu (Settings → Fuel Economy → Disable). Otherwise, the ECU will abort the procedure when the engine stops.

Instrument/condition	Requirement for Murano Z51	Consequences of ignoring
Scanner	Protocol support Nissan (CAN buses)	Unable to start training
Battery	≥12.4 V, terminals clean	Procedure reset, error U1000
Engine temperature	70–95°C (working)	Incorrect data in ECM, jerks after training
Gas pedal	Do not press during the procedure	Adaptation reset, restart required

Step-by-step instructions: learning the throttle on the Murano Z51

The adaptation procedure is different for mechanical and electronic dampers. Below is a universal algorithm suitable for both types, but taking into account the specifics Murano Z51:

1. Warm up the engine up to operating temperature (70–95°C). The on-board computer display should display a stable temperature without jumps.
2. Turn off all consumers: air conditioning, audio system, headlights. This will eliminate voltage sags.
3. Connect the scanner and select menu:

   Nissan → Murano (Z51) → Engine → Special Functions → Throttle Valve Learning

4. Follow the scanner prompts:
   • 🔹 Press the gas pedal all the way and release (to reset the current data).
   • 🔹 Wait 10 seconds - the ECU will record the “closed” position.
   • 🔹 Repeat pressing the pedal for 5 seconds - the ECU will record the “open” position.

Wait for it to finish. The message will appear on the scanner screen Complete or OK.

Turn off the engine for 30 seconds, then start and check the idle speed (should be 650–750 rpm).

Battery is charged (≥12.4 V)|

Engine warm (70–95°C)|

All consumers are disabled|

The scanner is connected and recognizes the ECM|

The gas pedal is not locked-->

A critical point for Murano Z51: if after training the idle speed remains higher 900 rpm, you need to repeat the procedure with full ECM reset (disconnect battery for 10 minutes). This is due to the features of the firmware Nissan after 2018, where the ECU may “remember” erroneous data.

⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with the system Direct Adaptive Steering (Electronic Power Steering) Throttle learning may reset the steering calibration. After the procedure, check the alignment of the steering wheel on a straight section of the road.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even when following the instructions, owners Murano Z51 often make mistakes leading to incorrect adaptation. Here are the most common:

• 🚫 Cold engine training. The ECU records incorrect data about the throttle position, which leads to “stuck” revolutions after warming up.
• 🚫 Pressing the gas pedal during the procedure. The scanner interprets this as a failure and interrupts adaptation.
• 🚫 Using cheap scanners (For example, ELM327). They do not support special features Nissan and can “block” the ECM.
• 🚫 Ignoring errors P0100 or P0123 before training. These codes indicate problems with the sensors that will render the adaptation useless.

Specific problem Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE: After replacing the air filter or cleaning the throttle body, an error may occur P0507 (high revs XX). In this case, training must be carried out twice at intervals of 10 minutes - this is due to the peculiarities of the ECM algorithm paired with a variator Jatco JF011E.

What to do if the scanner does not see the learning function?

If the scanner menu does not have an option Throttle Valve Learning, try:

1. Update the scanner firmware.

2. Connect via the OBD connector with the brake pedal held down (activates hidden menus on some models Nissan).

3. Use an alternative path: Engine → Data Monitor → Throttle Position → Reset.

If all else fails, diagnostic testing is required. Nissan Consult III - The blockage may be caused by a faulty ECM.

Learning without a scanner: myth or reality?

There is a widespread myth on the Internet about the possibility of learning the throttle valve at Murano Z51 without diagnostic equipment, by manipulating the gas pedal and ignition. It doesn't work for models after 2015!

The point is that the ECM Murano Z51 uses closed calibration protocol, accessible only through specialized scanners. Attempts to perform “manual” training (for example, using the “turn on the ignition - press the gas 5 times” method) will lead to:

• 🔴Writes erroneous data into the ECU memory.
• 🔴Emergency mode activation (Check Engine with an error P2100).
• 🔴 The need to reset the ECM at the service (cost from 3000 ₽).

The only legal way to learn without a scanner is to use console mode (for advanced users). To do this you will need:

1. Connect to ECM via Nissan Data Scan II (specialized software).
2. Enter the command:

   ETCS RESET [ENTER]

3. Follow the instructions on the screen (similar to using a scanner).

⚠️ Warning: Bad advice from forums (for example, “disconnect the battery at night”) for Murano Z51 are not only useless, but also dangerous. This generation ECM stores calibration data in non-volatile memory, and frequent power resets can damage the chip.

Checking the results: how to make sure that the training was successful

After adaptation is completed, it is necessary to evaluate the engine's performance. Here are the checkpoints for Murano Z51:

Parameter	Normal after training	Symptoms of a problem
XX speed	650–750 rpm (stable)	Swim in range 500–1200 rpm
Gas pedal response	Smooth acceleration without dips	Jerks at 1500–2500 rpm
Throttle position sensor (TPS)	Voltage 0.3–0.7 V (closed), 4.0–4.7 V (open)	Voltage surges or values out of range
Short term fuel trim (STFT)	±5% on XX	Values >10% or <-10%

For accurate diagnostics, connect the scanner and check the parameters in real time:

• 📊 Throttle Position (should change smoothly from 0% to 100%).
• 📊 Idle Air Control Valve (idle air valve) - steps must be in the range 20–40.
• 📊 MAF Sensor (air flow meter) - values 2.5–3.5 g/s on XX.

If the parameters are outside the normal range, repeat the training or check:

• 🔹 Integrity of vacuum hoses (air suction).
• 🔹 Condition of the catalyst (a clogged catalyst distorts the data MAF).
• 🔹 Presence of errors in oxygen sensors (P0130–P0167).

Frequently asked questions about throttle learning on Murano Z51

Is it possible to learn the throttle on a Murano Z51 with a QR25DE (2.5L) engine the same way as on a VQ35DE (3.5L)?

No, the procedures are different! On QR25DE training takes 10–15 seconds and does not require pressing the gas pedal after starting. The main thing is to warm up the engine until 80°C and use a scanner that supports the protocol Nissan for 4-cylinder engines. On VQ35DE adaptation lasts until 30 seconds and includes the stage of manually opening the damper.

Why did P0507 (high idle speed) appear after learning the throttle on the Murano Z51?

This error is typical for Murano Z51 with variator Jatco JF011E. Reasons:

1. Incomplete adaptation (the ECU did not record the “closed” position).
2. Contamination of the bypass channel in the throttle assembly (cleaning required ultrasound).
3. Malfunction of the coolant temperature sensor (ECT) — The ECU receives incorrect warm-up data.

Solution: Repeat the training with a full ECM reset (disconnect the battery for 10 minutes), then check the sensors with a scan tool.

How much does it cost to have throttle training on a Murano Z51 serviced?

The cost depends on the region and type of scanner:

• 💰 Diagnostics + training on Launch X431: 1500–2500 ₽.
• 💰 Training on Nissan Consult III: 3000–5000 ₽ (includes full diagnostics).
• 💰 Throttle cleaning + training: 4000–7000 ₽.

You can save money by purchasing access to an online scanner (for example, OBDAutoDoctor for 500 ₽/day) and performing the procedure yourself.

Can throttle training solve the problem of "slipping" during acceleration on the Murano Z51?

Only if failures are caused incorrect adaptation of the damper. Other possible reasons:

• 🔹 Dirty nozzles (ultrasonic cleaning required).
• 🔹 Worn spark plugs or coils (check misifire counters scanner).
• 🔹 Malfunction of the mass air flow sensor (MAF).
• 🔹 Air leaks through cracks in the intake manifold (typical for Murano Z51 after 150 thousand km).

If training does not help, diagnose the ignition and fuel supply system.

Do I need to train the throttle after replacing the air filter on a Murano Z51?

Officially no, but in practice the owners Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE encounter floating speed after replacing the filter. This is due to changes in air flow resistance. Recommendations:

• 🔹 If the XX speed is normal (650–750) - no training required.
• 🔹 If the speed fluctuates, adapt once.
• 🔹 Use filters with serial number 16546-4M000 (analogues may distort data MAF).