Nissan Murano Z51 - crossover with powerful 3.5 liter VQ35DE engine, which is known for its reliability, but it is not immune to problems with the power unit supports. Engine mounts (or support bearings) dampen vibrations and prevent vibrations from being transmitted to the body, but over time the rubber elements wear out and the metal parts corrode. If you notice knocking noise when starting, vibration on the steering wheel or uneven engine operation at idle, the problem may lie precisely there.

In this article we will analyze signs of airbag malfunction on Murano Z51 (2008–2014), we’ll tell you how to check their condition without a lift, and give step-by-step replacement instructions taking into account the nuances of the design. We will also compare original spare parts with analogues and tell you what to look for when purchasing so as not to run into a fake.

Signs of wear on engine mounts Nissan Murano Z51

Symptoms of bad mounts are often confused with transmission or suspension problems, but there are key differences. For example, knocking noise when shifting gears (especially from "D" to "R") or jerks at start - classic signs of wear on the rear or right airbag. Vibration on the body when the engine is idling (800–1000 rpm) also indicates a problem, but here it is important to rule out crankshaft imbalance or damper malfunction.

On Murano Z51 Most often they fail:

  • 🔴 Front airbag — the rubber damper cracks, and play appears in the metal bracket.
  • 🔴 Rear cushion — sags due to constant loads during acceleration/braking.
  • 🔴 Right airbag (gearbox side) — suffers from vibrations when the variator operates Jatco JF011E.

If these symptoms are ignored, the consequences can be serious: from radiator damage (due to motor offset) up to breakage of cooling system pipes. In practice, if the rear support is completely destroyed, the engine may “peck” forward during heavy braking, which will lead to rupture of hoses or even deformation of pallets.

⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z51 With a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, wear of the airbags is often disguised as a variator malfunction. Before diagnosing the transmission, be sure to check the mounts - this will save time and money.

How to check engine mounts without a lift

You can carry out diagnostics yourself without removing the support. You will need mount (or a strong stick) and an assistant. Verification algorithm:

  1. Visual inspection. Open the hood and inspect the rubber elements of the cushions for cracks, tears or peeling. Pay attention to the metal parts - rust or play in the fasteners is also a signal for replacement.
  2. Checking the backlash. Ask an assistant to get behind the wheel, start the engine and turn on the Drive And Reverse. At this time, observe the displacement of the motor. If it “walks” by more than 1–1.5 cm, the supports are worn out.
  3. Vibration test. At idle speed, place your hand on the air filter housing. Excessive shaking indicates sagging of the front or right airbag.

For a more accurate diagnosis of the rear support, an inspection hole or overpass will be required. Check here:

  • 🔧 The integrity of the rubber bushing (it should not be “smeared”).
  • 🔧 Backlash between the bracket and the spar (let's allow a gap of no more than 2-3 mm).
  • 🔧 Condition of fastening bolts - corrosion or broken threads require replacement.
📊 How often do you check engine mounts?
  • Each maintenance (10–15 thousand km)
  • Once every 50 thousand km
  • Only when symptoms appear
  • Never checked

What pillows are on Nissan Murano Z51: original vs analogues

On Murano Z51 (2008–2014) three engine mounts are installed:

Position Original article High-quality analogues Notes
Front airbag 11210-4M000 Febi 22616, Sasic 2003367 Often counterfeited - check the packaging for a hologram
Rear cushion 11210-4M010 Corteco 2003368, GMB 620-1180 New bolts should be included
Right airbag (gearbox side) 11210-4M020 Sidem 5062, TRW JTM10021 Often fails along with the bracket

Original pillows from Nissan serve on average 100–120 thousand km, but their price is steep - from 8 to 15 thousand rubles apiece. Analogs are cheaper (3-7 thousand rubles), but here it is important to choose trusted manufacturers. For example, Febi And Corteco They supply parts with rubber composition close to the original, but Chinese no-name options often “tan” after 30 thousand km.

When purchasing, pay attention to:

  • 🔍 Marking — the original has the article number and logo stamped on it Nissan.
  • 🔍 Rubber quality — it should be elastic, without the smell of “burning rubber.”
  • 🔍 Complete set — the box should contain new bolts and washers (especially for the rear support).
⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z51 with variator Jatco the right pillow experiences increased loads. If you often tow a trailer or drive off-road, it is recommended to install reinforced analogues from TRW or Sidem.
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Before buying, compare the weight of the original and analog pillows - fakes are often 20-30% lighter due to the use of cheap materials.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing engine mounts

Replacing supports with Murano Z51 You can do it yourself, but you will need jack, engine mount (or a strong board) and a set of heads. It is better to carry out work on an inspection pit or a lift. Below are instructions for replacement front airbag (the most accessible for self-repair).

Disconnect the battery (remove the negative terminal)|

Install chocks for the rear wheels|

Raise the front of the car on a jack and secure it on stands |

Place a support under the engine pan (for example, a wooden block) -->

Step 1. Dismantling the old pillow.

  1. Remove the engine protection (4 x 10mm bolts).
  2. Unscrew the nut securing the pillow to the bracket (14 mm head).
  3. Unscrew the bolts securing the bracket to the side member (17 mm head).
  4. Carefully lift the engine with a jack (1–2 cm) and remove the old cushion.

Step 2: Installing a new cushion.

  1. Clean the seat from dirt and rust.
  2. Install the new cushion, aligning the holes with the bracket.
  3. Tighten the fastening nut to torque 50–60 Nm (do not overtighten!).
  4. Lower the engine and secure the bracket with bolts to the side member.

For replacement rear cushion You will need to remove the heat shield and partially lower the gearbox (you need a special bracket or the help of a second person). Right pillow replaced together with the bracket, as it often becomes deformed from loads.

What to do if the pillow bolts are stuck?

Use a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40 Specialist) and let it run for 10–15 minutes.

If the bolt does not budge, try heating it with a hair dryer (do not overheat the rubber of the cushion!).

As a last resort, cut the bolt with a grinder, but be careful - there are fuel lines nearby.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes that lead to premature wear of new cushions or engine damage. Here are the most common:

  • 🚫 Incorrect bolt tightening. If you overtighten the fastening, the rubber of the cushion will quickly crack. Tightening torque for Murano Z51 — 50–60 Nm for nuts and 80–90 Nm for bolts to the spar.
  • 🚫 Ignoring brackets. The bracket ear on the right support often breaks - if it is not replaced, the new cushion will last a maximum of 20 thousand km.
  • 🚫 Failure to follow the replacement procedure. Always change the rear support first, then the front, and lastly the right one. Otherwise, the engine may become misaligned and the new cushions will work at the wrong angle.

Another typical problem is Incorrect installation of the engine support. If you place a jack under the oil pan, it can be dented. Correct - use special spacer (for example, a wooden block 10x10 cm) and rest against clutch housing or rear engine beam.

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After replacing the cushions, be sure to check the engine tilt angle - it should be parallel to the side members. If the motor is tilted to the side, the cushions will last 2–3 times less.

Cost of service replacement vs self-repair

Prices for replacing pillows in services vary depending on the region and service station level:

Type of work Cost (RUB) Time (hours)
Replacing one pillow 3 000 – 5 000 1–1.5
Replacement kit (3 pcs.) 8 000 – 12 000 3–4
Replacement with engine hanging 12 000 – 18 000 5–6

Self-replacement will only cost the cost of spare parts (from 9 to 21 thousand rubles per set), but will require time and tools. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to trust the professionals - mistakes when working with supports can lead to damage to the variator or pipe breakage.

You can save on diagnostics: before going to the service center, check the pillows yourself according to the instructions above. If the problem is confirmed, buy spare parts in advance - this way you will avoid service station markups (sometimes up to 30–50%).

Prevention: how to extend the life of engine mounts

Service life of supports Murano Z51 depends not only on the quality of the parts, but also on the driving style. Here are some tips to help delay replacement:

  • 🚗 Avoid abrupt starts — jerking from a place increases the load on the right pillow.
  • 🚗 Do not overload the vehicle. Towing a trailer weighing more than 1.5 tons accelerates wear on the rear support.
  • 🚗 Monitor the condition of the suspension. Worn shock absorbers or stabilizer links transmit additional vibrations to the engine.
  • 🚗 Wash the engine regularly. Dirt and oil accelerate the destruction of rubber elements.

Also recommended every 20 thousand km check the condition of the pillows visually and tighten the fastening bolts (they may become loose due to vibrations). If you often drive off-road, reduce the inspection interval to 10–15 thousand km.

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After replacing the cushions, avoid aggressive driving for the first 500 km - the new tires need time to “get used to” the loads.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about engine mounts Nissan Murano Z51

Is it possible to drive with a torn engine mount?

Short-term (up to 1-2 weeks) - yes, but this is fraught with consequences: increased wear of other supports, damage to pipes, or even displacement of the engine during sudden braking. If the cushion is completely destroyed, the engine may “peck” forward and rupture the radiator.

How long do airbags last on a Murano Z51?

Original - 100-150 thousand km, analogues - 50-80 thousand km. The duration depends on driving style and operating conditions. For example, in cold climates, tires harden faster, and with frequent towing, the rear cushion wears out within 30–40 thousand km.

Which airbag should you change first if there is a knocking noise from the front?

If a knocking noise is heard when starting or changing gears, it is most likely worn out. right pillow (from the checkpoint side). If vibration comes to the steering wheel - front. The rear cushion usually sags silently, but is manifested by engine “dive” when braking.

Is it necessary to do a wheel alignment after replacing the pillows?

No, replacing engine mounts does not affect wheel alignment. However, if suspension elements (for example, levers) were removed during repairs, then a wheel alignment is required.

Is it possible to restore old pillows?

Theoretically, yes, some workshops offer rubber vulcanization or replacing bushings. But in practice this is unreliable: a restored airbag will last a maximum of 10–20 thousand km, and the cost of work is often comparable to the price of a new part.