Engine Nissan Murano the second generation, known as the Z51, is equipped with a time-tested unit VQ35DE. This power unit is characterized by high dynamics and smooth running, but requires regular maintenance to maintain factory characteristics. One of the key procedures is the timely replacement of spark plugs, since the efficiency of combustion of the fuel mixture depends on their condition.
Ignoring service intervals can lead not only to increased fuel consumption, but also to serious problems with the ignition coils and catalyst. Owners often wonder when exactly this procedure should be carried out and which parts to choose for their crossover. Timely replacement of spark plugs on the VQ35DE engine prevents cylinder failure, which, in the event of coil breakdowns, may cost the owner to replace the entire set of modules.
Symptoms of wear and maintenance intervals
Understand that spark plugs Nissan Murano require replacement, it is possible by changing the behavior of the car. Engine VQ35DE is sensitive to the quality of the spark, and when the electrodes wear out, you will immediately notice changes in the operation of the power unit.
The most obvious sign is unstable engine operation at idle. You may feel vibration transmitted to the steering wheel and body, and also hear an uneven sound from the engine. In some cases, the indicator on the dashboard lights up Check Engine, signaling misfire.
- 🔥 The appearance of jerking and jerking when accelerating the car
- 📉 Noticeable increase in fuel consumption with the same driving style
- ⚙️ Deterioration in dynamics and loss of engine power
Official regulatory documentation Nissan recommends replacing spark plugs every 100,000 km mileage if original iridium elements are used. However, given the quality of domestic fuel and difficult road conditions, many experts advise reducing this interval to 60,000 – 80,000 km. More frequent replacement will ensure stable engine operation and preserve the life of expensive coils.
⚠️ Attention: Operating a car with worn spark plugs can lead to overheating and failure of the ignition coils, the repair of which on the VQ35DE engine requires significant costs.
Selecting suitable spark plugs for VQ35DE
The correct choice of components is the key to long and trouble-free operation of the engine. For Nissan Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE The manufacturer has provided for the use of iridium-coated spark plugs. This ensures high spark reliability and long service life.
The key parameters when choosing are the heat rating and thread size. An incorrectly selected spark plug may not only not fit the thread, but also lead to overheating or detonation. The standard article number for this motor is NK 22448-5XZ0A (original) or its high-quality analogues.
- 🏆 NGK ILZKAR7A11 — original iridium spark plugs recommended by the manufacturer
- 🛠 DENSO SK20R11 - high-quality analogue with similar characteristics
- ⚠️ Avoid using regular copper or platinum candles, they are not designed to last long
It is important to pay attention to the packaging and the presence of protective holograms when purchasing. Counterfeits often have poor-quality insulation and incorrect clearance, which instantly disables them. Checking the gap before installation is a mandatory step, even if you bought expensive original parts.
- 60,000 km
- 80,000 km
- 100,000 km
- I only replace it when it breaks.
Tools and preparation for work
Before starting work, you need to prepare the car and the necessary set of tools. Engine VQ35DE has a dense layout, so access to the candles requires a certain accuracy and the presence of specialized keys.
You will need a spark plug wrench with an extension and a soft insert inside. A regular wrench without a magnet or rubber insert can cause the spark plug to fall into the well, causing serious problems. You will also need a ratchet and a wrench for easy work in confined spaces.
- 🔧 Candle key on 16 mm with extension
- 🔦 Flashlight for inspecting the condition of candles and wells
- 🧽 Compressed air or blower to clean dust from spark plug wells
☑️ Preparing to replace spark plugs
Heating of parts can lead to their deformation or thread breakage when unscrewing. If you plan to change spark plugs after a trip, let the engine cool for at least 30-40 minutes.
Step-by-step replacement instructions
The process of replacing spark plugs Nissan Murano Z51 does not require complex dismantling of attachments, but requires care. First you need to remove the plastic decorative engine cover. It is attached to several plastic clips that need to be carefully pryed off with a flat screwdriver.
Next, disconnect the ignition coils. Each coil is secured with a bolt and connected via an electrical connector. First, unclip the connector, then unscrew the mounting bolt and carefully pull the coil up. Be careful not to damage the coil insulator.
- 🔌 Disconnect the electrical connector from the coil by pressing the latch
- 🔩 Unscrew the coil mounting bolt (usually a 10 mm head)
- 🚫 Do not pull the coil sharply, it may stick to the candle
Now you can unscrew the candle itself. Use a spark plug wrench with an extension. Rotate counterclockwise. If the spark plug is stuck, do not apply excessive force; it is better to use a penetrating lubricant around the threads.
What to do if a spark plug is stuck in the engine?
If the spark plug cannot be unscrewed, do not use brute force. Use a penetrating lubricant like WD-40, apply it to the threads and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Try slightly twisting the candle back and forth to get it out of place. If the threads are damaged, the threads will need to be repaired with a sleeve or the cylinder head will need to be replaced.
Inspect the removed candle. The color of the soot can tell a lot about the condition of the engine. Normal color is light brown or greyish. Black soot indicates a rich mixture, white soot indicates overheating or a lean mixture.
Before installing a new spark plug, check the gap. For VQ35DE it should be 1.1 mm. Place the spark plug in the well, being careful not to tilt it so as not to damage the insulator. Screw the spark plug in by hand until it stops, then tighten it with a wrench. The tightening torque must be within 18-20 Nm.
Before installing a new spark plug, apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the inside of the ignition coil and to the spark plug threads. This will protect against corrosion and allow for easy removal in the future.
⚠️ Attention: Do not overtighten the candles! The aluminum cylinder head is soft, and stripped threads will require expensive repairs involving drilling and installing liners.
Assembly and performance testing
After installing all the spark plugs, you need to return the coils to their places. Make sure each coil is seated tightly until it clicks. Tighten the mounting bolts and connect the electrical connectors. You should hear a characteristic click when connecting the connector.
Reinstall the decorative engine cover by pressing the latches until they click into place. Start the engine and listen to its operation. The engine should run smoothly, without vibrations or extraneous noise.
Check for errors on the dashboard. If the indicator Check Engine lights up, you may have connected the coil poorly or did not tighten the spark plug completely. In this case, diagnostics with a scanner will be required.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Candle type | Iridium | Original NGK or Denso |
| Key size | 16 mm | With magnet or insert |
| Tightening torque | 18-20 Nm | Use a torque wrench |
| Electrode gap | 1.1 mm | Check before installation |
High-quality installation of spark plugs with proper tightening torque is 90% of success in ensuring stable operation of the VQ35DE engine without misfires.
Frequent maintenance errors
Many owners Nissan Murano make mistakes that lead to repeated repairs. The most common mistake is using the wrong candles. Cheap analogues often have incorrect clearance or poor-quality insulation, which leads to breakdown.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the coils. If the coils are old, replacing the spark plugs alone may not solve the problem. It is recommended to check their resistance and insulation condition every time you replace spark plugs.
- ❌ An attempt to unscrew hot spark plugs, which leads to thread failure
- ❌ Using thread lubricant that is not intended for high temperatures
- ❌ Forgotten bolts or unconnected connectors after assembly
It is also important to prevent debris from getting into the spark plug wells. Dust and dirt can enter the combustion chamber when the spark plug is removed. Always use compressed air to clean out the well before installing a new part.
How much does it cost to replace it in the service and with your own hands?
The cost of replacing spark plugs in a specialized service varies depending on the region and level of service. Typically the cost of work is from 3000 to 5000 rubles for the whole set. This includes removing the cover, removing the coils, replacing the spark plugs and checking the engine.
If you decide to do it yourself, you'll save on work but waste time. The cost of a set of original candles is approx. 12,000 – 15,000 rubles. If you already have the tool you need, replacing it yourself is the most economical option.
However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. Errors during replacement can lead to much more serious and expensive damage than the cost of the service.
Conclusion
Regular replacement of spark plugs Nissan Murano Z51 - this is a simple but critical procedure for preserving engine life VQ35DE. The correct selection of parts, adherence to technology and accuracy during work guarantee long and reliable service of your car.
Do not delay replacement until later if you notice signs of malfunction. Timely maintenance will save you money on repairs and ensure a comfortable ride. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and use only high-quality components.
How many spark plugs do you need to replace a Nissan Murano Z51?
The VQ35DE engine (3.5 liter capacity) requires 6 spark plugs, one for each cylinder. It is recommended to change them all at once as a set.
Is it possible to use candles with a shorter resource, for example, platinum?
Although it is technically possible to use platinum spark plugs, they have a shorter lifespan (about 30-40 thousand km) and may not ensure optimal operation of the VQ35DE engine at high loads. Iridium spark plugs are preferable.
What should I do if the Check Engine light comes on after replacing the spark plugs?
You may have connected the coil connector poorly or did not tighten the spark plug completely. Check all connections. If the error persists, there may be a problem with one of the ignition coils that needs to be replaced.
Do I need to reset errors after replacing spark plugs?
If the error was related to misfires, it may disappear on its own after several engine starting cycles. If not, you can reset the errors through the OBDII diagnostic scanner.
How often do you need to change spark plugs on a Nissan Murano Z51?
The official recommendation is every 100,000 km, but when operating in difficult conditions or using low-quality fuel, it is better to change them every 60,000 - 80,000 km.