Nissan Murano Z51: honest owner reviews and expert analysis

Nissan Murano Z51 is a crossover that has remained one of the most recognizable in the Japanese brand’s lineup for more than 10 years. Since the debut of the third generation (2015), the model has undergone several updates, but retains its signature style and technical features. In 2023-2026 Murano Z51 continues to receive conflicting reviews: some praise the comfort and design, others criticize the reliability and cost of service.

This article is not an advertising review, but a collection real owner reviews, supplemented by expert analysis. We will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the model, typical problems after 50,000–100,000 km, and compare with competitors (Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento) and give practical advice on selection and operation. If you are planning a purchase Murano Z51 or are already facing problems - here you will find up-to-date information without embellishment.

1. Design and interior: what owners like and what annoys them

Exterior Nissan Murano Z51 often called the main trump card of the model. Futuristic “boomerang” headlights, an aggressive radiator grille and smooth body lines set the crossover apart from its competitors. However, not everyone likes this polarizing design:

• ✅ Pros: 78% of owners in surveys note that the car looks more expensive than its price, especially in top trim levels with LED optics and 20-inch wheels.
• ⚠️ Cons: 22% complain that it is difficult to wash the windshield due to the shape of the hood and small rearview mirrors, which impair visibility.
• 🔧 Problems: After 3-4 years of use, many people begin to peel off the chrome on door handles and moldings (especially in regions with salt on the roads).

Interior Murano made in the "premium light" style: soft plastic, leather trim (in the top), but there are some flaws. For example, owners note that the climate control buttons begin to play over time, and the multimedia screen dims in the sun. At the same time, the ergonomics are excellent: comfortable seats with good lateral support and a spacious interior (especially for rear passengers).

One of the most frequently asked questions in reviews: "How practical is the salon?" The trunk volume of 392 liters in the standard position and 1,100 liters with the seats folded is average for the class. But the owners complain about high loading threshold and lack of a shelf for hidden storage.

2. Engine and transmission: reliability and typical breakdowns

Nissan Murano Z51 equipped with a single motor - 3.5-liter V6 VQ35DE (249 hp), familiar from previous generations. This engine is famous for its endurance, but it also has weaknesses:

Problem	Manifestation	Appearance date	Repair cost (₽)
Oil leak from under the valve cover	Oil stains on the block, burning smell	80,000–120,000 km	12 000–18 000
Timing chain wear	Cold start noise, error P0011	150,000–200,000 km	40 000–60 000
Throttle valve contamination	Floating speed, jerking during acceleration	60,000–100,000 km	3,000–5,000 (cleaning)
Automatic transmission overheating (Jatco JF011E)	Shocks when switching, error P0730	100,000–150,000 km	80 000–150 000

Important: CVT variator, which was installed on previous generations, in Murano Z51 replaced by classic 6-speed automatic. This is a plus for reliability, but a minus for dynamics. Owners note that the gearbox sometimes gets “stupid” when overtaking, especially in Eco.

Among the positive points - no turbine (less problems with overheating) and good traction at low revs. But if you plan to drive with a trailer, keep in mind: Murano Z51 not officially designed for towing (maximum 750 kg without brakes).

⚠️ Attention: If you buy Murano Z51 with mileage, be sure to check the automatic transmission oil change history. Many dealers recommend changing the fluid every 60,000 km, but in fact, owners often delay up to 90,000–100,000 km, which leads to wear on the clutches.

3. Suspension and handling: comfort vs. reliability

Nissan Murano Z51 built on a platform Nissan D, which also underlies Pathfinder And Infiniti QX60. The suspension here is soft, tuned for comfort, but not for sporty dynamics. Owners are divided into two camps:

• 👍 Comfort lovers: They praise the smooth ride, good noise insulation (at speeds up to 120 km/h) and stability on the highway.
• 👎 Critics: They complain about a large roll in corners, a “wobbly” steering response and poor information content of the brake pedal.

Typical suspension problems:

• 🛑 Knock in the front suspension — stabilizer struts are usually to blame (change every 50,000–70,000 km).
• 🛑 Shock absorbers leaking — appears after 80,000–100,000 km (the originals last longer, but cost ~25,000 rubles apiece).
• 🛑 Wear of rear beam silent blocks — creaking and play appear after 60,000–80,000 km.

One of the most frequently asked questions: "How does the Murano perform off-road?" Despite the ground clearance of 185 mm and all-wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i, this is a typical “asphalt” crossover. Owners do not recommend driving off the dirt road - there is a risk of damaging the bumper or pan.

4. Electronics and multimedia: glitches and solutions

Nissan Murano Z51 equipped with a system NissanConnect with 8-inch screen, navigation and support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, electronics are one of the weakest points of the model. Here are the most common complaints:

• 📱 Media freezing: The screen freezes when connecting a smartphone or while navigating. Solved by rebooting (hold down the power button for 10 seconds).
• 🔋 Battery drain: If you leave the car for 3-4 days without moving, the battery may die due to current “leakage” (the module is to blame BCM).
• 🚨 False sensor alarms: Most often the tire pressure sensor is faulty (TPMS) and a 360-degree camera.

Among the advantages - adaptive cruise control (works stably) and the system ProPILOT Assist (in top trim levels), which holds the lane well. But the owners note that cameras and radars quickly become dirty in the rain, causing the system to shut down.

If you encounter electronic glitches, try resetting the settings to factory settings:

Настройки → Система → Сброс настроек → Выбрать "Сброс мультимедиа"

This method helps in 60% of cases. If the problem remains, a flashing is required in the service (from 5,000 ₽).

How to update NissanConnect firmware yourself?

To update you will need a FAT32 format flash drive, a firmware file from the official Nissan website and instructions for activating the update mode (press and hold the buttons MAP + BRIGHT when the ignition is turned on).

5. Fuel consumption: real numbers vs. factory data

Official fuel consumption for Nissan Murano Z51 with motor VQ35DE and automatic transmission:

• 🏙️ City: 12.5 l/100 km
• 🛣️ Highway: 7.8 l/100 km
• ⚖️ Combined cycle: 9.6 l/100 km

Real reviews from owners show different numbers:

Driving conditions	Average consumption (l/100 km)	Notes
City (traffic)	14–16	In winter +2–3 l due to warming up
Route (90–110 km/h)	8,5–9,5	At a speed of 130+, consumption increases to 11–12 l
Mixed cycle	11–13	Depends on driving style

Tips to reduce consumption:

Please note: if consumption suddenly increases by 2-3 liters, check:

• 🔥 Spark plugs (resource - 60,000–80,000 km).
• 🔧 Mass air flow sensor (MAF) - gives an error when dirty P0100.
• 🛢️ Catalysts — when the honeycombs are clogged, the engine is “choked.”

6. Cost of ownership: how much does it cost to maintain a Murano Z51

Nissan Murano Z51 does not apply to budget crossovers - this is confirmed by reviews from owners. Let's look at the main expense items:

• 💰 Insurance (CASCO/OSAGO): From 40,000 ₽ per year (depending on the region and length of service).
• 🔧 TO: Official maintenance costs 25,000–40,000 rubles at a time (every 15,000 km).
• 🛠️ Repair: The average cost of ownership after 100,000 km is 150,000–200,000 rubles per year (including replacement of consumables).

The most expensive work:

• 🔥 Replacing the timing chain — 40,000–60,000 ₽ (including tensioners and seals).
• 🛢️ Automatic transmission repair — from 80,000 ₽ (for wear of friction clutches).
• 🔋 Battery replacement — 12,000–18,000 ₽ (original Nissan or Bosch S5).

Among the advantages - availability of spare parts. Most parts (except body parts) are interchangeable with Pathfinder And Infiniti QX60, which simplifies repairs. However, original spare parts are expensive: for example, a front bumper costs ~50,000 rubles, and a headlight costs 30,000–40,000 rubles.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Murano Z51 check history by VIN on the website vin.nissan.ru. Cars are often imported from the USA, where they may have been in an accident or leased. Pay special attention to checking the frame for rust (the weak point is the arches and sills).

7. Comparison with competitors: which is better to choose?

Main competitors Nissan Murano Z51 in class:

Model	Pros	Cons	Price (used, 2018–2020)
Toyota Highlander	Reliability, hybrid version	Boring design, expensive renovation	2.2–2.8 million RUB
Hyundai Santa Fe	5 year warranty, rich equipment	Less space in the cabin	1.8–2.4 million RUR
Kia Sorento	7 seats, good guarantee	Hard suspension, noisy interior	1.9–2.5 million RUB
Ford Edge	Powerful engines, sporty character	High fuel consumption, expensive maintenance	2.0–2.6 million RUB

Why do owners choose Murano Z51?

• 🎨 Design: Vivid and memorable (unlike Highlander).
• 🛋️ Comfort: Softer than Sorento or Santa Fe.
• 🔧 Ease of repair: Engine VQ35DE well studied, spare parts available.

The main disadvantage is cost of ownership. In terms of reliability Murano loses Toyota, and in terms of equipment - to the Koreans. If you care balance of price and quality, take a closer look at Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento with a guarantee. If in first place comfort and style — Murano Z51 remains an interesting option.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z51

🔧 How often do you need to change the oil in the VQ35DE engine?

The official schedule is every 15,000 km or once a year. However, owners recommend reducing the interval to 10,000 km if:

• You drive mostly around the city (frequent traffic jams).
• Use fuel below AI-95.
• Operate the machine in very dusty conditions.

Optimal oil: 5W-30 or 5W-40 (For example, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 or Nissan Strong Save X 5W-40).

❄️ How does Murano Z51 behave in winter?

The machine is well adapted to cold climates:

• 🔥 Quick heating of the interior (thanks to the double stove).
• 🚗 All-wheel drive All-Mode 4x4-i behaves confidently in the snow (with good tires).
• ⚠️ Weak points: the battery (can run out after 3 days of inactivity in the cold) and freezing of the wipers (due to the shape of the windshield).

Tip: check the condition before winter drive shafts (boots often tear) and replace the brake fluid (hygroscopic).

💰 How much does the VQ35DE contract engine cost?

Prices for used engines from Japan:

• 🔄 Engine with mileage 50,000–80,000 km: 180,000–250,000 ₽.
• 🆕 Engine with mileage up to 30,000 km: 250,000–350,000 ₽.
• 🔧 Turnkey installation: 50,000–80,000 ₽ (depending on the service).

Important: when purchasing a contract engine, request a video of a cold start and check the compression (must be at least 12 bar in each cylinder).

🔋 Which batteries are suitable for Murano Z51?

Recommended settings:

• 🔋 Capacity: 70–80 Ah.
• 🔌 Starting current: at least 600 A (optimally 700–750 A).
• 📏 Dimensions: 278×175×190 mm (group L3).

Verified models:

• Bosch S5 005 (74 Ah, 750 A) - the best option in terms of price/quality ratio.
• Varta Blue Dynamic D59 (74 Ah, 750 A) - reliable, but more expensive.
• Nissan 28500-4M00A (original, 70 Ah) - if you want 100% compatibility.

🛠️ Is it possible to install R20 tires instead of R18 on Murano Z51?

Yes, but with reservations:

• ✅ Pros: Better looks, slightly better handling at high speeds.
• ⚠️ Cons:
  • Fuel consumption will increase (by 0.5–1 l/100 km).
  • Comfort will deteriorate (stiffness will increase by 15–20%).
  • Suspension elements wear out faster.
• 🔧 Recommendations: If you decide to go for R20, choose tires with a high profile (for example, 245/50 R20 instead of 235/55 R18) and soft rubber compound (for example, Michelin Primacy 4).