How to change oil Nissan Murano

The Nissan Murano was first introduced back in 2002. This model has been through three generations so far. The first generation was 2003-2007, the second was 2009-2014, and the third started in 2015. Each generation saw improvements in design, safety, and technology. One of the big pluses of the Murano is its comfortable ride and good fuel economy for a midsize SUV.

Do I need to urgently change the oil right now?

Well, that depends on how long it’s been since your last oil change and how much you’ve been driving. But generally, it’s best not to put it off for too long.

What is the frequency (interval) for changing engine oil?

The common rule is to change the engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but it can vary depending on your driving habits and the type of oil you use.

In the case of the Nissan Murano, you should change the engine oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. However, if you often drive in harsh conditions like dusty roads or stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change it more frequently.

How to check the engine oil level?

Checking the engine oil level involves verifying the amount of oil present in the engine to ensure it is at an appropriate level. It is important to check the oil level periodically as part of regular vehicle maintenance. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and ensure the engine is turned off.
2. Open the hood of your car and locate the dipstick, which is usually marked with a bright-colored handle and labeled “Engine Oil.”
3. Remove the dipstick from its tube by pulling it out.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean using a cloth or paper towel to remove any existing oil.
5. Reinsert the dipstick fully back into its tube.
6. Pull out the dipstick again and observe the oil level on the end of the dipstick.
7. The dipstick will have markings indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels. The oil level should ideally be between these two marks.
8. If the oil level is below the minimum mark or significantly low, you may need to add oil to bring it up to the proper level. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and the correct procedure for adding oil.

Checking the engine oil level periodically is important for several reasons:

1. Lubrication: Engine oil lubricates various components within the engine, preventing excessive friction and wear. Maintaining the proper oil level ensures effective lubrication and helps extend the life of engine parts.
2. Cooling: Oil helps dissipate heat generated by the engine. Insufficient oil can lead to overheating and potential damage to engine components.
3. Monitoring Oil Consumption: By checking the oil level regularly, you can monitor the rate at which your engine consumes oil. If you notice a significant decrease in oil level between checks, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention.
4. Early Detection of Problems: Visual inspection of the oil level can reveal signs of oil leaks or excessive oil consumption, which may indicate mechanical issues or malfunctioning components. Detecting problems early can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Visual assessment of engine oil condition

A visual assessment of engine oil involves examining its appearance to determine its condition. You can perform a simple visual inspection to get an idea of the oil’s health. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and ensure the engine is off.
2. Open the hood and locate the dipstick for checking the engine oil level.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
4. Reinsert the dipstick fully and then remove it again.
5. Observe the color and consistency of the oil on the dipstick.

During the visual assessment, you should look for the following indicators:

1. Color: Fresh engine oil is typically amber or light brown in color. As it ages and accumulates contaminants, it becomes darker.
2. Consistency: The oil should have a smooth and uniform texture. If it appears gritty or contains metal particles, it may indicate potential engine problems.
3. Clarity: Clean engine oil is transparent or slightly translucent. If the oil appears cloudy or murky, it may suggest the presence of contaminants or water contamination.
4. Odor: Fresh engine oil usually has a mild petroleum smell. If you detect a burnt or strong odor, it could signify issues with the engine or oil breakdown.

Preparing to change engine oil

Before changing the oil, you need to make sure you have the right tools and supplies. This includes a new oil filter, new oil, an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, and maybe a new drain plug washer. It’s also important to dispose of the old oil properly.

What type of oil should be used for a car?

For the Nissan Murano, it’s recommended to use synthetic oil, either 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on the climate.

How to choose oil depending on the season and operating conditions?

In colder climates, it’s better to use thinner oil like 5W-30 because it flows better at low temperatures. In hotter climates or when you’re towing a lot, you might want a thicker oil like 10W-30. The most important thing is to check your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Advantages and disadvantages of different types of oils for Nissan Murano

The advantages of different types of oils for Nissan Murano include:

1. Synthetic oil: Provides better engine protection, especially at high temperatures and under heavy loads. It also lasts longer between oil changes.
2. Conventional oil: Less expensive than synthetic oil.
3. High-mileage oil: Formulated for older engines with higher mileage, helps reduce oil consumption and oil leaks.

The disadvantages of different types of oils for Nissan Murano include:

1. Synthetic oil: More expensive than conventional oil.
2. Conventional oil: May not provide as much protection as synthetic oil in extreme conditions.
3. High-mileage oil: May not be necessary for newer engines with lower mileage.

Engine oil selection

Generation	Engine	Suitable Oil Viscosity	Popular American Brand	Required Amount of Oil
1st (2003-2007)	3.5L V6	5W-30	Mobil 1 ($27/5 qarts), Castrol ($29/5 quarts), Valvoline	4.5 quarts
2nd (2009-2014)	3.5L V6	5W-30	Pennzoil ($21/5 quarts), Royal Purple ($38/5 quarts), Quaker State	5 quarts
3rd (2015-2021)	3.5L V6	0W-20 or 5W-30	Shell, Amsoil, Chevron	5 quarts
4th (2022-present)	3.5L V6	0W-20 or 5W-30	Mobil 1 ($29/5 quart), Castrol, Valvoline	5 quarts

Which oil filter is right for you?

Generation	Engine	Popular Brand
1st (2003-2007)	3.5L V6	Fram ($5), Bosch, Purolator
2nd (2009-2014)	3.5L V6	Wix, K&N, Motorcraft, FRAM ($5)
3rd (2015-2021)	3.5L V6	AC Delco, Mann, Hastings, FRAM ($9)
4th (2022-present)	3.5L V6	Purolator, Bosch, Denso, Mobil 1 ($12)

Necessary tools and conditions

To prepare for an independent engine oil change for the Nissan Murano, you will need the following tools and conditions:

1. Tools: Oil filter wrench, oil drain pan, socket set, funnel, oil filter, new oil, oil filter removal tool, and a jack or ramps (if needed for accessing the oil drain plug).
2. Safety precautions: Ensure the car is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. Wear protective gloves and eye protection.
3. Time: Set aside approximately 30-60 minutes for the oil change process.

How to warm up the engine before changing the oil?

To properly warm up the engine before changing the oil, follow these steps:

1. Start the engine and let it idle for about 5 minutes. This allows the oil to warm up and flow more easily.
2. If the weather is cold, let the engine idle for a few additional minutes to ensure the oil reaches its optimal operating temperature.
3. Turn off the engine and wait for a few minutes to allow the oil to settle back into the oil pan.

It is important to warm up the engine before changing the oil because warm oil flows more easily, allowing it to drain more completely from the engine. This helps to remove any contaminants and old oil more effectively, resulting in a cleaner and more efficient oil change.

Step-by-step instruction

Here is a step-by-step instruction for beginners to change the engine oil of a Nissan Murano:

1. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine.
3. Place the oil drain pan underneath the oil drain plug.
4. Using a socket wrench, loosen the oil drain plug and carefully remove it.
5. Allow the old oil to completely drain into the pan.
6. Once the oil has drained, replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely.
7. Locate the oil filter, typically located near the oil pan.
8. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old oil filter.
9. Before installing the new oil filter, apply a thin layer of oil to the rubber gasket on the top of the filter.
10. Install the new oil filter by hand, turning it clockwise until it’s snug. Do not overtighten.
11. Locate the oil filler cap on the top of the engine and remove it.
12. Place a funnel into the oil filler hole.
13. Pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine through the funnel.
14. Replace the oil filler cap securely.
15. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
16. Turn off the engine and wait for a minute or two.
17. Check the oil level using the dipstick, and add more oil if necessary.
18. Clean up any spills or drips.
19. Dispose of the old oil and filter at a recycling center or an authorized oil collection facility.
20. Done! The engine oil change for the Nissan Murano is complete.

The entire process may take approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on your experience and familiarity with the task.

Replacing transmission fluid in automatic transmission

What is the frequency (interval) of changing the transmission fluid in an automatic transmission?

The frequency for replacing transmission fluid in an automatic transmission can vary, but a general guideline is to change it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, the specific interval may vary depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the driving conditions. Severe driving conditions such as towing, stop-and-go traffic, or extreme temperatures may require more frequent fluid changes.

What transmission fluid to choose?

Here is a table with the selection of transmission fluid for Nissan Murano:

Generation	Engine	Fluid Amount	Popular Brands in the US	Catalog Number	Approximate Cost (USA)
1st (2003-2007)	3.5L V6	10.9 quarts	Valvoline, Mobil 1, Castrol	N/A	$10-$20
2nd (2009-2014)	3.5L V6	10.9 quarts	Pennzoil, Royal Purple, Quaker State, Vavloline ($26/Gallon)	N/A	$15-$25
3rd (2015-2021)	3.5L V6	10.9 quarts	Shell, Amsoil, Chevron, Vavlonile	N/A	$20-$30
4th (2022-present)	3.5L V6	10.9 quarts	Mobil 1, Castrol, Valvoline	N/A	$25-$35

Required tools

To replace the transmission fluid in a Nissan Murano automatic transmission, you will need the following tools:

1. Transmission fluid pump or funnel.
2. Ratchet or wrench set.
3. Drain pan or bucket.
4. Transmission fluid filter (if applicable).
5. Rubber gloves and safety goggles.

Step-by-step instruction

Here is a step-by-step instruction for beginners on changing the transmission fluid in the automatic transmission of a Nissan Murano:

1. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Locate the transmission fluid drain plug on the transmission pan.
3. Place the drain pan or bucket underneath the drain plug.
4. Unscrew the drain plug using a ratchet or wrench, allowing the old fluid to drain completely.
5. Once the fluid has drained, clean the drain plug and reinstall it securely.
6. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick and remove it.
7. Using a fluid pump or funnel, add the recommended amount of new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube.
8. Check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick and add more fluid if needed.
9. Replace the dipstick securely.
10. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
11. With the engine still running, shift the transmission through each gear, pausing briefly in each gear.
12. Return the gearshift to Park or Neutral and let the engine idle for another few minutes.
13. Check the transmission fluid level again and top up if necessary.
14. Clean up any spills or drips.
15. Dispose of the old transmission fluid properly at a recycling center or an authorized facility.
16. Done! The transmission fluid change for the Nissan Murano is complete.

Note: It’s always recommended to consult the vehicle’s owner manual for specific instructions and to ensure the use of the correct transmission fluid for your Nissan Murano.

Possible questions after self-service

What problems can arise after an incorrect self-changing engine oil?

Some problems that can arise after an incorrect self-changing engine oil include:

1. Insufficient lubrication: Using the wrong type or grade of oil can lead to inadequate lubrication, resulting in increased friction and wear on engine components.
2. Overfilling or underfilling: Incorrectly measuring or pouring the oil can lead to overfilling or underfilling the engine, which can affect its performance and potentially cause damage.
3. Oil leaks: Improperly installed oil filters, drain plugs, or gaskets can result in oil leaks, leading to loss of oil and potential engine damage.
4. Contaminated oil: If the oil is not properly filtered or if contaminants are introduced during the oil change process, it can lead to poor engine performance and accelerated wear.

How can I check for engine oil leaks after changing it myself?

To check for engine oil leaks after changing the oil yourself, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a clean and level surface.
2. Let the engine run for a few minutes to circulate the oil.
3. Carefully inspect the area around the oil filter, drain plug, and oil pan for any signs of fresh oil or drips.
4. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe around these areas and check for any fresh oil residue.
5. Check the underside of the car for any visible oil stains or drips.
6. Monitor the oil level over the next few days and check for any significant decrease, as it could indicate a leak.

How to reset the oil change counter on Nissan Murano after service?

To reset the oil change counter on a Nissan Murano after service, follow these steps:

1. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine.
2. Press the INFO button on the steering wheel until the maintenance screen is displayed.
3. Use the “+” or “-” button on the steering wheel to select “Maintenance.”
4. Press and hold the ENTER button on the steering wheel for a few seconds until the oil maintenance reminder resets.

What to do with old oil after replacement?

To properly dispose of old used engine oil after self-replacement:

1. Store the used oil in a leak-proof container with a tightly sealed lid.
2. Take the used oil to a local recycling center or an authorized collection facility that accepts used oil.
3. Many auto parts stores and service centers also accept used oil for recycling. Check with them to see if they have a collection program in place.
4. Do not pour the used oil down drains, into the ground, or mix it with other substances. Improper disposal can harm the environment and may be illegal.

It’s important to handle and dispose of used engine oil responsibly to protect the environment and ensure proper recycling or disposal.