Cooling system Nissan Murano Z50 (2008–2014) - a critical node on which stability of operation depends 3.5 liter VQ35DE engine. The radiator here experiences increased loads: due to the compact engine compartment of the crossover and the high heat transfer of the engine. Radiator malfunctions are one of the main reasons engine overheating on runs over 150,000 km, which is fraught with deformation of the cylinder head or jamming of the piston group.

In this article we will look at everything the owner needs to know. Murano Z50 about the radiator: from signs of wear to step-by-step instructions for replacement. We analyzed reviews from car owners, technical bulletins Nissan and data on the reliability of analogues in order to create the most practical guide. We will pay special attention to typical repair mistakes - for example, why flushing the system cannot be ignored even when installing a new radiator.

Signs of a radiator malfunction: when to sound the alarm

The first symptoms of problems with the radiator Murano Z50 Often attributed to the thermostat or pump. However, there are specific “bells” that directly point to the radiator:

  • 🔥 Engine overheating at idle speed (the temperature needle creeps into the red zone, but drops while driving) - a sign of clogged cells or a faulty fan.
  • 💧 Antifreeze leak under the car from the front bumper (green/red liquid with a sweetish odor).
  • 🌀 Cloudy or rusty antifreeze in the expansion tank - a signal of corrosion inside the radiator.
  • 🚗 Cold air from the stove when the engine is warm, an air lock is possible due to air leaks through cracks.

On Murano Z50 There is one insidious feature: the radiator often “flows” not from the outside, but from the inside - antifreeze gets into the oil through the cylinder head gasket. If an emulsion (light foam) appears on the dipstick and the coolant level drops without visible leaks - immediately check the radiator for leaks.

⚠️ Attention! On Murano Z50 With an automatic transmission, engine overheating can lead to failure of the transmission solenoids. An antifreeze temperature above 110°C is critical for the machine!
📊 How often do you check the antifreeze level in Murano Z50?
  • Every month
  • Once every 3 months
  • Only before long trips
  • Never checked

Original radiators and analogues: what to choose for the Z50

Original radiator for Nissan Murano Z50 (2008–2014) has an article number 21460-4M000 (for models with air conditioning) or 21460-4M001 (no air conditioning). The cost of a new original is from 25,000 to 35,000 rubles. However, there are worthy analogues on the market that will cost less:

Brand Article Price, ₽ Features
Denso 221-2063 18 000–22 000 Japanese quality, full analogue of the original, copper tubes
Nissens 64151 15 000–18 000 Danish brand, aluminum body, good heat dissipation
Behr Hella 8K0 121 251 14 000–17 000 German made, suitable for harsh environments
Spectra Premium CU2063 12 000–14 000 Budget option, but there are frequent complaints about the short service life

When choosing an analogue, pay attention to core material: copper radiators (Denso) last longer, but are heavier and more expensive; aluminum (Nissens, Behr) are lighter, but sensitive to aggressive antifreeze. For Murano Z50 with mileage over 200,000 km, we recommend the copper option - it better withstands vibration and corrosion.

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Before purchasing a radiator, check it for plastic tanks. On Murano Z50 The fastenings of tanks to the core often burst - choose models with metal clamps.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the radiator

Replacing the radiator with Nissan Murano Z50 takes 3–4 hours if you have the tools. The main difficulty is dismantling the front bumper and fans. You will need:

  • 🔧 Set of sockets (8, 10, 12 mm) and ratchet handle
  • 🔨 Plastic spatulas for removing clips
  • 🧰 Container for draining antifreeze (minimum 8 liters)
  • 🧴 Radiator sealant (for example, Loctite 577)

Replacement algorithm:

  1. Drain the antifreeze: Unscrew the cap on the radiator (lower right) and the drain bolt on the engine block (size 14 mm).
  2. Remove the front bumper: Unscrew the 4 bolts at the top (under the hood) and 6 clips at the bottom. Disconnect the PTF connectors.
  3. Remove fans: disconnect the power connector, unscrew the 4 mounting bolts (10 mm).
  4. Disconnect the pipes: Loosen the clamps and remove the upper/lower hoses. Be careful - antifreeze may remain in the system!
  5. Remove the radiator: Unscrew the 2 bolts of the upper fastening and 2 nuts from the bottom (12 mm). Carefully pull the radiator up.

Buy a new radiator and antifreeze (10 l)

Check the condition of the pipes and clamps

Prepare a rag to clean up spilled antifreeze.

Take a photo of the location of the fan connectors -->

When installing a new radiator be sure to replace the thermostat (article 21200-4M000) and flush the cooling system Nissan Coolant Flush or similar means. Ignoring flushing will lead to rapid clogging of the new radiator with deposits.

⚠️ Attention! On Murano Z50 with all-wheel drive, when replacing the radiator, it is necessary to disconnect the transfer case oil cooling pipes (they are attached to the bottom of the radiator). Skipping this step risks leaking oil into the antifreeze!

Flushing the cooling system: why is it critical for the Z50

Cooling system Murano Z50 prone to deposit formation due to the use of low-quality antifreeze or mixing of different types (for example, G11 And G12). Clogged radiator channels reduce heat transfer by 30–40%, which leads to chronic overheating.

Effective cleaning method:

  1. Pour into the system Liqui Moly Kuhler-Reiniger (or equivalent) and let the engine idle for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Drain the liquid and rinse the system with distilled water (3-4 cycles).
  3. Refill with new antifreeze Nissan Long Life Coolant (article KE902-99932) or CoolStream A-110.

On Murano Z50 there are “dead zones” in the cooling system - for example, in interior heater. To wash them, after adding antifreeze, warm up the engine to operating temperature, turn the heater on to maximum and let it run for 5–7 minutes.

What happens if you don't flush the system?

Rapid clogging of a new radiator (service life is reduced by 2–3 times).

Corrosion of aluminum parts (cylinder head, pump) due to residues of old antifreeze.

Increased pressure in the system and the risk of pipe rupture.

Typical mistakes when repairing a Murano Z50 radiator

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when working with the cooling system Murano Z50. Here are the most common:

  • 🔧 Using sealants to fix leaks. On Murano Z50 this is a temporary solution - the sealant clogs the channels automatic transmission oil cooler, which is integrated into the main radiator.
  • 💦 Filling with regular water instead of distilled water. Leads to the formation of scale on the walls of the radiator and pump.
  • 🔄 Incorrect bleeding of the system. After replacing the radiator you need 5–7 times Compress the upper pipe with the engine running to remove any air pockets.
  • ⚡ Ignoring fan checks. On Murano Z50 The fan resistor often fails (part number 25460-4M000), which leads to overheating even with a new radiator.

Another typical problem is antifreeze incompatibility. For example, mixing Nissan Coolant (green) with Toyota Red leads to the formation of gel-like clots that clog the stove radiator. Always use only original antifreeze or its certified analogues (CoolStream A-110, Sintec Unlimited G12++).

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On Murano Z50 After replacing the radiator, be sure to check the operation of the fans manually through the diagnostic connector. To do this, close contacts 1 and 8 in the diagnostic port (under the steering wheel) - the fans should turn on at full power.

Prevention: how to extend the life of a radiator

Radiator service life Nissan Murano Z50 can be increased to 200,000 km if you follow simple rules:

  • 📅 Change antifreeze every 60,000 km (or once every 3 years). Even if the level is normal, the coolant loses its properties.
  • 🚿 Flush the radiator outside once a year. Dirt and poplar fluff between the combs reduce heat transfer by 20–30%.
  • 🔍 Check the antifreeze level at every maintenance. On Murano Z50 The expansion tank often develops microcracks.
  • 🌡️ Monitor the temperature: if the arrow rises above the middle of the scale, check the radiator for clogging.

Pay special attention cooling fans. On Murano Z50 they turn on at 98°C, but if the temperature sensor (article number 25460-AL50A) is faulty, the fans may not work. Check their operation through the diagnostic connector (see instructions above).

We also recommend installing additional antifreeze filter (For example, Magni Filter). It traps rust and abrasive particles that can destroy pump and thermostat seals. The cost of the filter is about 1,500 rubles, but it extends the life of the cooling system by 30–50%.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z50 radiator

Is it possible to drive with a cracked radiator if you add antifreeze?

No! Even a small crack expands over time due to vibrations. On Murano Z50 this is fraught antifreeze getting into the oil through the cylinder head gasket, which leads to engine overhaul. The most that can be done is to temporarily seal the crack with epoxy glue (for example, Loctite Epoxy Metal) and immediately go for a replacement.

What antifreeze should I fill in the Murano Z50 after replacing the radiator?

Officially Nissan recommends Nissan Long Life Coolant (green, article number KE902-99932). Alternatives:

  • CoolStream A-110 (red, compatible with original)
  • Sintec Unlimited G12++ (purple, service life 250,000 km)

System volume - 9.5 liters. Fill only after complete rinsing!

Why does the heater blow cold air after replacing the radiator?

Reason - air lock in the system. To fix it:

  1. Start the engine, warm up to operating temperature.
  2. Turn on the stove to maximum, open the cap of the expansion tank.
  3. Squeeze the upper radiator hose several times to expel the air.

If it doesn't help, check heater valve (article 27250-4M000), it may jam.

How much does it cost to replace a radiator at a service center?

Cost of work in Russia (2026):

  • Moscow/St. Petersburg: 8,000–12,000 rubles
  • Regions: 5,000–8,000 rubles
  • Official dealer: 15,000–20,000 rubles

You can save money if you remove the bumper and fans yourself - this is the most time-consuming part of the work.

Can I install a radiator from another Nissan on a Murano Z50?

Theoretically, radiators from:

  • Nissan Pathfinder R51 (2005–2012, article number 21460-4M000)
  • Infiniti EX35 (2008–2013, article number 21460-4M001)

However, there are nuances: the fastenings of the automatic transmission oil cooler tubes may not match. Please check the catalog before purchasing Nissan Parts.