Emergency? Here’s How to Put Nissan Murano in Neutral

Are you a Nissan Murano owner who’s ever wondered how to put your vehicle in neutral? Or perhaps you’re facing a situation where you need to shift your Murano into neutral, but you’re unsure how to do it safely and correctly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from the basics to essential safety tips.

Understanding the Neutral Gear: What It Does and When You Need It

The neutral gear (N) in your Nissan Murano is a key part of your transmission system. It allows you to disengage the engine from the wheels, essentially “decoupling” the powertrain. Here’s what it means for your vehicle:

• No Power to the Wheels: When in neutral, your Murano won’t move, even if you press the accelerator.
• Engine Still Running: The engine remains operational, allowing you to idle or rev the engine without the car moving.
• Free Rolling: You can push or tow your Murano while it’s in neutral, as there’s no resistance from the transmission.

Here are some common scenarios where you might need to put your Nissan Murano in neutral:

• Towing: If your Murano needs to be towed, it’s essential to put it in neutral to prevent damage to the transmission.
• Manual Shifting: While the Murano has an automatic transmission, you may need to temporarily shift it into neutral for specific maneuvers, like when parking on a steep incline.
• Emergency Situations: If your vehicle loses power while driving, shifting into neutral can allow you to coast to a safe location.

Step-by-Step Guide: Putting Your Nissan Murano in Neutral

1. Engage Parking Brake: Before shifting into neutral, always engage the parking brake to prevent your Murano from rolling. This is crucial for safety, especially on inclines.
2. Shift Lever: Locate the gear selector lever on the center console. It’s typically shaped like a lever with a “P” (Park), “R” (Reverse), “N” (Neutral), “D” (Drive), and “S” (Sport) positions.
3. Shift to Neutral: Carefully move the gear selector lever from “D” (Drive) or “S” (Sport) to the “N” (Neutral) position. You should feel a distinct click or detent as the lever enters neutral.
4. Confirm: Always double-check that the gear selector is firmly in the “N” position. You can do this by glancing at the gear indicator on the dashboard, which should display “N.”

Safety Precautions: Never Compromise Your Safety

• Always Use the Parking Brake: This is essential to prevent your Murano from rolling while in neutral, especially on inclines.
• Avoid Shifting While Driving: Never attempt to shift into neutral while your Murano is in motion unless absolutely necessary in an emergency situation.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and traffic conditions when shifting into neutral, especially in busy areas.

Additional Tips for Smooth Shifting

• Use Gentle Force: When shifting into neutral, apply gentle pressure to the gear selector lever. Avoid forcing it into position, as this could damage the transmission.
• Listen for the Click: Pay attention to the distinct click or detent you’ll feel as the lever enters the “N” position. This confirms that the gear has shifted correctly.
• Check the Gear Indicator: Always double-check the gear indicator on the dashboard to ensure that the transmission is indeed in neutral.

When to Consult a Professional: Recognizing Potential Issues

While shifting your Nissan Murano into neutral is typically straightforward, there are situations where it’s best to seek professional help:

• Shifting Difficulty: If you encounter resistance or unusual sounds when shifting into neutral, it’s best to have your Murano inspected by a qualified mechanic.
• Transmission Problems: If you notice any other transmission issues, such as slipping gears or delayed engagement, it’s crucial to get your Murano diagnosed and repaired promptly.
• Unusual Lights or Messages: If your dashboard displays warning lights or messages related to the transmission, don’t ignore them. Contact your dealership or a trusted mechanic for immediate assistance.

Summary: Mastering the Neutral Gear for a Smoother Ride

Understanding how to put your Nissan Murano in neutral is an essential skill for any owner. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently shift your Murano into neutral when needed, whether for towing, parking, or emergency situations. Remember to prioritize safety and always engage the parking brake before shifting into neutral. If you encounter any shifting difficulties or suspect transmission problems, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.

Information You Need to Know

Q1: Can I leave my Nissan Murano in neutral for an extended period?

A1: It’s generally not recommended to leave your Murano in neutral for extended periods. While it’s safe for short intervals, prolonged use in neutral can put stress on the transmission and potentially lead to wear and tear.

Q2: Is it necessary to shift into neutral when parking on a hill?

A2: While shifting into neutral isn’t strictly necessary for hill parking, it’s a good practice to engage the parking brake and shift into “P” (Park) for added safety. This helps prevent the vehicle from rolling unintentionally.

Q3: Can I push-start my Nissan Murano if it’s in neutral?

A3: It’s generally not recommended to push-start your Murano. Modern vehicles, including the Nissan Murano, have sophisticated electronic systems that may be damaged by push-starting.

Q4: Why is it important to have the parking brake engaged when shifting into neutral?

A4: The parking brake is crucial for preventing your Murano from rolling when in neutral. This is especially important on inclines, where the vehicle could easily roll backward or forward if the parking brake isn‘t engaged.