AWD question(s)

[krazyrob1]

Ok I have been hearing various AWD information on the Murano.

I have a 2006 S AWD.

Does is the AWD always on at low speeds?

What is the speed that the AWD drive lock goes off?

And how do I know when I am in AWD?

Thanks

[BBISHOPPCM]

I think I can answer your questions...

From what I've read, the system is always partially engaged until it senses a difference between front and rear wheel speeds. If the driver manually engages the AWD lock, it will automatically disengage after driving above 20mph (I believe) for more than one minute (again, these numbers are not exact... it's actually written in your manual). The AWD system changed in operation after the 2004 model year, to prevent full-time engagement of the AWD system (to prevent failures).

[bourque_john]

What I was told by a Nissan mechanic a few weeks ago, was that the inteli-drive system is a 60/40 front to rear split at 0-20 mph. 21-40 it moves to 80/20 and 41+ it goes to 100% front wheel drive unless it senses wheel slippage. At which point it will engage the rear wheels as needed to maintain traction. AWD lock as BBISHOPPCM said will lock the wheels up to 20 mph. I'm told the AWD lock also locks it as a 50/50 split.

I found this out after screwing up a ball joint change, and breaking the ABS speed sensor. At which point the system shut down the AWD system & ABS system. Once I got that sensor replaced, (169.99+ installation charge) everything went back to normal.

Hope that answers your questions.

[SteveTheTech]

The 2006 Murano has a dominant front drive system but can actually split torque 50% to the rear. The drive shaft will always send the torque to the rear but if the electric coupler is not engaged the transfer will not occur.

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/murano/2006/tf.pdf check out page 11. This will give you a technical breakdown with some informative pictures.

[2006Murano]

The AWD Lock button will lock the differential side to side, so left is manually connected to the right. this causes both sides to turn at the same speed. the AWD Lock will automatically disengage at speeds above 5 MPH. The regular AWD will always be on, hence the AWD and not 4WD. The center differential may change the torque split through a viscous clutch but all four tires always have power to them.

[Timmbo]

correct responses!