Steering rack <em>Nissan Murano Z51</em> (2009-2014): how to recognize a fault and what to do

Nissan Murano Z51 (second generation, 2009–2014) is a popular crossover, but its steering rack often becomes a “weak link” after 150–200 thousand km. Owners complain about knocking noises, play in the steering wheel and power steering fluid leaks. In this article we will look at how diagnose problems yourself, what select spare parts for replacement, and is it worth repairing the rack or is it better to install a new one.

Feature Murano Z51 — electric power steering (EPS) in top trim levels and classic hydraulic booster (power steering) in basic ones. This affects the symptoms of faults and the approach to repair. We have collected current data on spare parts articles, prices for 2026 and the nuances of working with this generation of racks.

Signs of a faulty steering rack Nissan Murano Z51

The first signs are often ignored until the problem becomes critical. Pay attention to these symptoms:

• 🔊 Knock or crunch when turning the steering wheel (especially on a rough road) - a sign of wear on the gear pair or bushings.
• 💧 Power steering fluid leak (red or brown oily puddle under the car) - a signal of damage to the seals or tubes.
• 🔄 Stiff steering wheel rotation in one direction (more often when turning to the left) - the shaft may wear out or the spool may jam.
• 🚗 Vibration on the steering wheel when driving in a straight line - may indicate play in the rack connections.
• ⚠️ EPS lamp is on (in models with electric power steering) - an error in the system that requires diagnostics with a scanner.

On Murano Z51 with power steering Leaks and knocking noises are more common, and in versions with EPS — problems with the electronic control unit or torque sensors. If you ignore these signs, the rack may jam while moving, which is dangerous!

⚠️ Attention: On Murano Z51 With a mileage of over 200 thousand km, knocking in the rack is often disguised as wear of the stabilizer struts or ball joints. Before repairing, be sure to diagnose the suspension on a lift!

Articles and prices for spare parts for the steering rack

Original rack from Nissan for Murano Z51 it is expensive (from 80 to 150 thousand rubles), but there are high-quality analogues. The table below shows current articles and average prices for 2026:

Rail type	Article	Manufacturer	Average price, ₽	Notes
Original (power steering)	48520-JM00A	Nissan	120 000–150 000	Suitable for all trim levels with power steering
Analogue (power steering)	TRW JSR650	TRW	45 000–60 000	High-quality replacement, resource 150+ thousand km
Original (EPS)	48520-JM01A	Nissan	180 000–220 000	Includes control unit and motor
Oil seal repair kit	NK 48520-JM000-KIT	NK	8 000–12 000	To repair power steering leaks
Tie rod (pair)	48530-JM00A	Nissan / Febi	15 000–20 000	Often wear out along with the rack

Upon purchase pay attention to the year of manufacture your Murano Z51: slats for 2009–2011 and 2012–2014 models. may differ in fastenings. Also check the kit - some kits are missing rods or boots.

Steering rack diagnostics: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the problem, follow these steps:

1. Leak test:

   Turn off the engine, turn the steering wheel all the way left and right. Inspect the power steering rack and tubes for oil stains. B Murano Z51 Most often, shaft seals and spool seals leak.

2. Backlash test:

   Rock the steering wheel left and right in place (the engine is off). Backlash of more than 10–15 mm is a sign of wear of the gear pair. On Murano with EPS backlash may be accompanied by an error C1130 (torque sensor malfunction).

3. Listening to knocks:

   Raise the car on a lift or hang the front axle. Ask an assistant to shake the steering wheel, mientras you listen to the rack with a stethoscope (or a long screwdriver attached to your ear). A knock on the right is wear on the right bushing, on the left – on the left.

4. EPS diagnostics:

   For models with electric power steering, connect a scanner (for example, Launch X431) and check for errors in the protocol CAN. Frequent codes: C1131 (sensor circuit open), C1611 (motor malfunction).

Checked power steering fluid level|Diagnosed EPS errors (if any)|Inspected rods and boots|Tested for steering play|Photographed rack fastenings (for reassembly)-->

If you find fluid leak, but the rack works without knocking, you can get by by replacing the seals. When play or knocking a complete replacement or major overhaul will be required.

Repair vs replacement: which is more profitable for Murano Z51?

The choice depends on the condition of the slats and the budget:

• 🔧 Repair (replacement of oil seals/bushings):

  Cost: 15–25 thousand rubles (with work). Suitable if there is no corrosion on the shaft and there are no knocks. On Murano with a mileage of up to 180 thousand km this is justified.

• 🆕 Replacing with a new rail:

  Cost: 60–150 thousand rubles (depending on the type - power steering or EPS). Optimal for cars with mileage over 200 thousand km or with critical wear of the gear pair.

• ♻️ Contract rail:

  Cost: 30–50 thousand rubles. A risky option - a used part can last from 10 to 100 thousand km. Check for play and leaks before purchasing!

Critical point: on a Murano Z51 with EPS, repairing the control unit is often impossible - it is replaced complete with the rack. In power steering versions, you can get by with replacing the oil seals, but only if the shaft has no wear.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the rack with Murano Z51 with EPS required reset adaptations via diagnostic scanner! Without this, the amplifier will not work correctly.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the steering rack

To work you will need:

• 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (10–19 mm).
• 🛠 Steering rod puller.
• 🔩 Torque wrench (tightening torque of fasteners - 80–100 Nm).
• 🧴 Power steering fluid (Nissan PSF or Mobil ATF 320).
• 📱 Diagnostic scanner (for EPS).

Step 1. Preparation:

Remove the negative terminal of the battery. On models with EPS disconnect the connector of the rack control unit (located under the hood, next to the windshield). B Power steering versions drain the liquid from the reservoir.

Step 2. Dismantling:

1. Unscrew the fastenings of the rack to the subframe (4 bolts of 14 mm).
2. Disconnect the tie rods from the steering knuckles (use a puller!).
3. Inside, unscrew the nut securing the steering shaft to the rack (13 mm wrench).
4. Carefully pull the rack out through the right side of the engine compartment.

Step 3. Installing a new rail:

Before installation check alignment: The wheels should be level and the steering wheel should be in a neutral position. Tighten the fasteners with a torque wrench! After installation:

• For power steering: bleed the system (turn the steering wheel all the way 5-6 times, add fluid).
• For EPS: Connect the scanner and perform calibration of the rotation angle sensor.

What happens if you don’t bleed the power steering after replacing the rack?

Air will remain in the system, which will lead to “foamy” fluid, pump noise and a stiff steering wheel. In advanced cases, the power steering pump fails within 1–2 thousand km.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen make mistakes when working with a lath. Murano Z51. Here's what not to do:

• 🚫 Ignore steering wheel alignment when installing a new rail. This leads to uneven wear gear pair.
• 🚫 Do not change anthers during repairs. On Murano they often crack, letting dirt into the rack.
• 🚫 Use non-original power steering fluid. Cheap analogues corrode oil seals within 10–20 thousand km.
• 🚫 Tighten fasteners by eye. Weak tightening leads to vibrations, excessive tightening leads to deformation of the rack body.

Another common mistake is do not check the alignment of the steering shaft after replacement. If the shaft and rack are not aligned, there will be play and accelerated wear. On Murano Z51 this is especially critical due to the large mass of the crossover.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the rack with Murano with EPS Never turn on the ignition with the control unit turned off! This may burn out the electronic board.

Steering rack maintenance: how to extend its life

The service life of the rack is Murano Z51 can be increased to 300 thousand km if you follow these recommendations:

• 🔄 Change power steering fluid every 60 thousand km (or once every 2 years). Use only Nissan PSF or Idemitsu PSF.
• 🚗 Avoid driving through deep potholes at high speed - impacts destroy the rack bushings.
• ❄️ Do not hold the steering wheel in extreme position more than 5 seconds - this overloads the power steering pump.
• 🔧 Check the anthers every 20 thousand km. Cracks? Change it right away!
• 📊 Diagnose EPS at the first sign of a malfunction (for example, if the steering wheel itself returns to neutral with a delay).

For Murano Z51 with EPS critical to follow on-board voltage. A drop below 11.5 V (due to a weak battery, for example) may cause the amplifier to malfunction.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the steering rack Nissan Murano Z51

Is it possible to drive with a knocking rack?

Short term - yes, but it is dangerous. A knocking noise indicates wear on the gear pair or bushings, which can lead to steering wheel jamming on the go. On Murano Z51 with EPS Ignoring a knock often ends amplifier motor failure (repair cost - from 50 thousand rubles).

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

Prices depend on the type of amplifier:

• Power steering: 15–25 thousand rubles (labor) + cost of spare parts.
• EPS: 25–40 thousand rubles (requires calibration with a scanner).

In the regions, prices are 10–20% lower than in Moscow. Replacing it yourself will save up to 50%, but will require tools and skills.

What kind of power steering fluid to fill in Murano Z51?

Only Nissan PSF (article KE902-99932) or its analogues:

• Idemitsu PSF (article 30050011-8850)
• Mobil ATF 320 (for emergency topping up)

Prohibited use Dexron or other transmission fluids - they destroy seals!

Why did the steering wheel become stiff after replacing the rack?

Reasons:

• Not pumped power steering (there is air left in the system).
• Not completed EPS calibration (for electric booster).
• The fastenings of the rack or steering rods are overtightened.
• Poor quality power steering fluid was used.

Solution: bleed the system, check the tightening torques and perform diagnostics with a scanner.

Is it possible to repair a rack with EPS or is it just a replacement?

In 80% of cases EPS cannot be repaired — the control unit and motor are non-separable. Exception: replacing the torque sensor (if the problem is there). B Power steering versions repairs are justified: replace oil seals, bushings or a gear pair. The cost of repairs is 15–30 thousand rubles (versus 60–150 thousand for a new rail).