Proper vehicle maintenance is essential to keeping your Nissan Murano running at its best. With a 3.5L V6 engine producing 260 horsepower, this midsize crossover SUV offers a smooth ride for both city highways and long trips. To maintain this performance, understanding the right oil type, capacity, and change intervals is critical. This guide provides the essential details to ensure your Murano continues performing efficiently while prolonging engine life.
Nissan Murano Technical Specifications
The Nissan Murano features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, this setup balances power, comfort, and fuel efficiency. These specifications make the Murano ideal for daily commutes and weekend getaways, with its engine design relying on quality motor oil for optimal performance. Proper oil selection ensures the engine components remain lubricated, reducing wear and extending its lifespan.
Oil Change Essentials
Oil Type, Capacity, and Change Intervals
- Oil Type: Nissan recommends using synthetic 0W-20 motor oil for the Murano. Synthetic oil is ideal for maintaining lubrication under varying temperatures, providing better protection compared to conventional oil.
- Oil Capacity: The 3.5L V6 engine requires 5.1 quarts of oil when replacing the filter. Precision is important—overfilling or underfilling can negatively affect engine performance.
- Oil Change Interval: Following manufacturer guidelines, you should replace the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or roughly every six months, depending on driving conditions. For a more tailored approach, consider performing oil analysis to determine the accurate change interval based on your specific driving habits.
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll maintain engine efficiency and avoid potential costly repairs long-term.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oils
- Synthetic Oils: Provide superior durability, cleaner engine operation, and better performance across extreme temperatures. They’re engineered with consistent molecular structures, offering enhanced lubrication and reduced friction.
- Conventional Oils: Contain impurities and lack the uniformity of synthetic oils. They’re more budget-friendly but less effective at protecting your engine over time, especially in severe conditions.
For the Nissan Murano’s advanced engine, synthetic oil is the better option, as it provides improved fuel efficiency and optimal protection, particularly under heavy loads or extreme weather.
Product Comparisons
- Havoline® PRO-DS® Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20: Known for excellent engine protection, this oil helps minimize sludge and wear. It supports fuel efficiency and performs well in both hot and cold climates.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, good cleaning properties, boosts engine protection.
- Cons: May not last as long as some premium options.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil: Built for exceptional engine cleanliness and wear resistance, this oil offers performance in high-stress situations. It’s ideal for drivers who push their vehicles to the limit, such as in stop-and-go traffic or towing scenarios.
- Pros: Superior protection, extended drain intervals, reliable under various conditions.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to competitors.
Both options deliver strong results, but for extended performance and fewer oil changes, AMSOIL stands out as the top premium choice.
FAQs
What’s the best oil type for the Nissan Murano?
The recommended oil type is 0W-20 synthetic oil, as it provides maximum protection for the Murano’s 3.5L V6 engine.
How often should you change the oil?
Change the oil every 5,000–7,500 miles, or every six months. Factors like driving habits, climate, and terrain may impact this interval. The best way to check your oil’s condition and set an effective oil change schedule is through an oil analysis. This process provides clear details based on the actual state of your engine.
Does switching to synthetic oil improve performance?
Yes, synthetic oil improves performance by reducing friction, preventing sludge buildup, and offering better temperature stability compared to conventional oil.
Learn more about the performance and features of the 2024 Nissan Murano—click here to read the full review on MotorTrend.
Final Thoughts
Proper oil changes are critical to keeping your Nissan Murano performing at its peak. By choosing synthetic 0W-20 motor oil, maintaining the correct oil capacity of 5.1 quarts, and adhering to routine oil change intervals, you can ensure your engine stays protected and efficient. Whether opting for Havoline PRO-DS or AMSOIL, selecting a high-quality product suitable for your Murano will decrease maintenance issues and enhance overall performance. Staying proactive with these essentials will allow your Murano to deliver reliability and durability for years to come. For more details on high-performance motor oils, explore AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil here and Chevron Havoline here.