Automatic transmission in a crossover Nissan Murano the second generation (Z51 body) is a complex hydromechanical unit that requires special attention from the owner. Many car owners mistakenly believe that the transmission fluid is filled for its entire service life, but the actual service life of the unit directly depends on the regularity of maintenance.
Regular oil changes help prevent overheating of the clutches, maintain pressure in the valve body and ensure smooth gear shifts. Ignoring the procedure leads to wear of the solenoids, contamination of the filter and, ultimately, to expensive repairs or complete replacement. variator, if we are talking about models with CVT, or classic automatic transmission, depending on the configuration and market.
Choosing the Right Transmission Fluid
A key factor in the long life of a gearbox is the correct selection of working fluid. For Nissan Murano Z51 the manufacturer strictly regulates the use of the specification Nissan Matic S or Nissan Matic J depending on the type of transmission installed. The use of universal oils or analogues from third-party manufacturers can lead to a change in the friction coefficient of the clutches and loss of hydraulic pressure.
There are many offers on the market, but you should focus on original brands or certified analogues. Pay attention to the packaging: genuine oil has protective holograms and clear batch markings. Fake liquid often has a darker color and a specific chemical smell.
- 🔴 Original oil Nissan Matic S — an ideal choice for most modifications of the Z51 with automatic transmission.
- 🔵 Alternatives from leading brands (Idemitsu, Shell) with labeling NS-2 or JWS 3324 (requires clarification of compatibility).
- ⚫ It is strictly forbidden to mix oils of different colors and specifications without completely flushing the system.
It is important to understand that even high-quality oil loses its properties over time. Oxidation, wear debris and overheating accelerate fluid degradation. Therefore, replacement should be carried out at least every 60,000 kilometers, and under severe operating conditions - every 40,000 kilometers.
⚠️ Attention: Using oil with specification Nissan Matic J instead of Matic S (or vice versa) can lead to a sharp increase in transmission temperature and failure of the valve body within a short time.
Required tools and materials
Before starting work, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and all the tools. For a comfortable oil change in Nissan Murano Z51 You will need a lift or inspection hole as access to the transmission pan and drain plug is limited. A standard garage set of wrenches may not fit due to specific bolt sizes.
Pay special attention to the container for draining waste fluid. The volume of oil in the system is about 7-8 liters with a partial replacement, so the container must be spacious. Do not forget to purchase a new fine filter and pan gasket, since reusing old elements is unacceptable.
- 🔧 Set of keys and sockets (including 10 mm and 19 mm for drain plugs).
- 🛢 A container for draining waste with a volume of at least 10 liters.
- 🧤 Protective gloves and glasses for working with chemically active liquid.
You will also need a special syringe or funnel with a flexible hose to fill new oil through the dipstick. Without this tool, correctly filling the system to the required level is almost impossible, especially given the narrow passage of the dipstick in the engine compartment.
- Up to 100,000 km
- 100,000 - 200,000 km
- More than 200,000 km
- I don't know for sure
Step-by-step oil change algorithm
The replacement procedure requires strict adherence to the sequence of actions. First you need to warm up the engine and gearbox to operating temperature. The oil should be thin enough to drain completely, but not too hot to avoid burns. The ideal liquid temperature is 50-60 degrees Celsius.
After warming up, the car is placed on a flat surface. Stop the engine and wait 2-3 minutes for the oil to drain into the pan. Unscrew the drain plug located on the side wall of the pan. Be prepared for the oil to pour out under strong pressure, so the container should be installed in advance.
⚠️ Attention: Do not attempt to remove the plug while the engine is hot. The risk of burns from oil vapors and contact with hot elements of the exhaust system is extremely high.
The next step is to remove the pan. Unscrew all the bolts around the perimeter, starting from the edges and moving towards the center to avoid deformation of the metal. After removing the pan, carefully drain the remaining oil and remove the magnets installed on the bottom. They must be thoroughly cleaned of metal shavings with a solvent.
- 🔩 Unscrew the bolts securing the pallet in a checkerboard pattern.
- 🧲 Remove and clean the magnets from metal suspension.
- 🧽 Wash the pan with gasoline or a special carburetor cleaner.
Remove the old filter. It is usually secured with 3 bolts and has a rubber gasket. Install the new filter, making sure it fits snugly into the valve body body. Before installing the pan, apply new sealant or install a new gasket, if provided for by the design.
☑️ Preparing for an oil change
Then new oil is poured through the dipstick hole. Use a funnel with a thin hose to avoid spilling liquid on the engine. Fill in a volume close to what you drained earlier, but do not fill to the brim.
For ease of filling oil, use a long funnel with a transparent hose - this will allow you to visually monitor the level during the filling process without constantly removing the dipstick.
Critical Step: Level Check
The most difficult and crucial point is to correctly check the transmission fluid level. Unlike the engine, the oil level in the automatic transmission Nissan Murano Z51 depends on temperature. The procedure must be carried out with the engine running and the selector switched to all positions.
Start the engine and let it idle. Move the selector to each position (P, R, N, D, L) with a delay of 3-5 seconds to fill the torque converter and channels with fluid. Return the selector to position P and check the level using the dipstick. The oil trace should be between the Hot marks.
| Oil temperature | Engine condition | Selector position | Check mark on the dipstick |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-60°C | Operating temperature | Any (P for check) | Between Cold and Hot (lower limit) |
| 65-75°C | Operating temperature | Any (P for check) | Between Hot (upper limit) |
| Below 40°C | Cold engine | Not recommended | The values are incorrect |
If the level is below normal, add oil in small portions. If the level is higher, it is necessary to drain the excess through the drain plug, since overfilling the oil causes aeration of the liquid and foam, which reduces the pressure and leads to slipping of the clutches.
⚠️ Attention: The final check of the oil level in the Nissan Murano Z51 automatic transmission must be carried out strictly at a fluid temperature of 70-75°C, otherwise you will receive false readings and disrupt the operation of the transmission.
Difficulties during replacement and typical mistakes
Many owners are faced with the problem of accessing the drain plug. In some configurations it is covered with plastic protective screens that have to be removed. It is also possible for the pan to be welded, which requires cutting it off and then installing a new one, but this is rare for Z51.
Another common mistake is ignoring the filter state. If you change the oil, but leave the old filter, some of the contaminants will remain in the system, and the new oil will quickly lose its properties. A dirty filter creates resistance to flow, causing overheating.
Sometimes after changing the oil, the transmission begins to work incorrectly: jerks or delays appear. In most cases, this is due to incorrect fluid levels. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be adapted via a diagnostic scan tool.
- ❌ Do not use sealant instead of a gasket if the design provides for a replaceable element.
- ❌ Do not over-tighten the pallet bolts - this may break the threads or deform the metal.
- ❌ Don't forget to check the condition of the drain plug sealing ring.
What to do if the dipstick is missing?
If you do not find a dipstick to check the oil level, you may have an automatic transmission without a dipstick (sealed pan). In this case, the level is checked through the inspection hole on the gearbox housing with the engine running. Excess oil should flow out when the level reaches normal.
Cost of work and independent implementation
Changing the oil at a service center can cost a significant amount, as it includes not only the cost of work, but also a markup on materials. An independent procedure allows you to save up to 40-50% of your budget. However, if you do not have experience with hydraulics or a lift, it is better to leave it to the professionals.
When calculating your budget for a DIY replacement, consider the cost of oil, filter, gasket and sealant. Typically, a complete replacement requires about 8-9 liters of fluid for a partial replacement and up to 11-12 liters for a complete circulation flush.
If you decide to do the work yourself, be sure to study the service documentation specific to your year of manufacture. The design of the pan and the location of the drain plugs may vary slightly depending on the engine modification and drive type.
Changing the oil yourself with a lift and tools is an effective way to extend the life of an automatic transmission, saving money on service station services.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions from owners
How much oil does a Nissan Murano Z51 need for a complete change?
For a partial replacement, about 7-8 liters are required. For a complete replacement using the displacement method (at a flushing station), 12 to 15 liters of fluid are required, since old oil remains in the torque converter and channels.
Can Matic S and Matic J oils be mixed?
Strongly not recommended. These fluids have different chemical compositions and additives. Mixing can lead to sedimentation and destruction of clutches. Always drain old oil completely before adding new type.
How often do you need to change the automatic transmission filter?
The fine filter should be changed at every oil change. If a coarse filter (mesh) is used, it can be washed, but if it is heavily soiled, it is better to replace it with a new one to ensure stable pressure.
What to do if the oil level doesn't hold?
This may indicate a leak. Check the drain plug, pan gasket and axle seals. Damage to the oil cooler is also possible if it is integrated into the engine cooling system.
Regular automatic transmission maintenance Nissan Murano Z51 - this is a guarantee that the crossover will serve you for many years without problems. Don’t skimp on the quality of materials and follow the manufacturer’s regulations to avoid costly repairs.