<em>Nissan Almera G15</em> rear brake pads: a complete guide to selection and replacement

Nissan Almera G15 is a popular sedan that is valued for its reliability and unpretentiousness. However, even the most proven models have weak points, and the braking system is no exception. Rear pads on Almera G15 wear out on average every 30–50 thousand km, but this indicator greatly depends on driving style, quality of parts and operating conditions. Unlike the front ones, rear pads are often ignored until they start squeaking or cause the car to pull away when braking.

In this article we will look at everything you need to know about rear pads. Almera G15: from choosing between the original and analogues to step-by-step replacement, taking into account typical mistakes. We will pay special attention drum brakes (on basic versions) and disk (on top trim levels), since the process of servicing them is radically different. We will also provide current articles, prices and tips on how to save money without risking safety.

Original pads vs analogues: what to choose for Almera G15?

Original rear pads from Nissan guarantee 100% compatibility and predictable brake behavior, but their price often forces owners to look for alternatives. For example, a set of original brake pads for drum brakes will cost 2,500–3,500 rubles, while high-quality analogues can be found for 1,200–2,000 rubles. However, not all analogues are equally good: cheap pads from unknown brands can lead to premature wear of brake drums or discs due to increased metal content in the friction material.

Among the trusted manufacturers are:

• 🔹 ATE — German quality, soft braking, minimal wear on discs/drums.
• 🔹 Ferodo — optimal price/quality ratio, suitable for aggressive driving.
• 🔹 TRW — reliable, but can creak a little during the first 200–300 km.
• 🔹 Bosch - a universal choice, often recommended for urban use.

For Almera G15 with rear disc brakes (configurations Tekna or Elegance) original part numbers for the pads - 40520-4M000 (left) and 40520-4M001 (right). For drum brakes (most versions) - kit 40506-4M000. When choosing analogues, be sure to check the catalogs by VIN code, since different brake mechanisms could be installed in different markets (Europe, Asia).

Signs of rear pad wear: when is it time to change?

Rear pads on Almera G15 They wear out more slowly than the front ones, but their condition cannot be ignored. The main signs that it's time to check your brakes:

• 🚨 Creaking or whistling when braking (especially at low speeds).
• 🚨 Vibration or pounding in the brake pedal.
• 🚨 The car pulls to the side when you press the brake (may indicate uneven wear or a stuck caliper).
• 🚨 Increased brake pedal travel or its “softness”.

On drum brakes, signs of wear are less obvious because the pads are hidden. Only a visual inspection through the inspection window in the brake mechanism panel or complete disassembly will help here. Critical wear for pads Almera G15 — the residual thickness of the friction material is less than 1.5–2 mm. If the pads appear cracked, chipped, or soaked in oil, urgent replacement is required, even if the thickness is still acceptable.

⚠️ Attention: On Almera G15 A common problem with drum brakes is handbrake cable souring, causing the pads to not fully move away from the drum. This leads to accelerated wear and overheating. Before replacing the pads, be sure to check the cable movement and lubricate it if necessary.

Step-by-step instructions: replacing the rear pads with Almera G15 with drum brakes

Replacing pads on drum brakes is more difficult than on disc brakes, but you can do it without the help of a service station. Tools needed:

• 🔧 Key on 12 And 14 (to remove the drum).
• 🔧 Pliers or special pliers for tension springs.
• 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (to adjust the automatic release).
• 🔧 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant (if the drum is “stuck”).

Procedure:

1. Raise the rear of the car with a jack, remove the wheel and unscrew the drum guide pins (2 bolts on 12).
2. Remove the drum. If it doesn't come off, gently tap the edge with a rubber mallet or use WD-40. Don't hit the hub!
3. Using pliers, remove the tension springs, then spread the pads and remove them from the support plate.
4. Disconnect the handbrake cable from the shoe lever (you will need a key for 10).
5. Install new pads, respecting the position of the front and rear (they are asymmetrical!).
6. Lubricate the contact points between the pads and the support disc with high-temperature grease (for example, Permatex 24110).
7. Reassemble the mechanism in the reverse order, adjust the gap between the shoes and the drum using the eccentric adjuster (until a characteristic click is heard).

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the pads on drum brakes, the first 100–200 km Avoid sudden braking - the new pads should get used to them. Also check the brake fluid level in the reservoir: if it has risen after replacement, this is normal (the pistons in the working cylinders have retracted).

Features of replacing rear pads with Almera G15 with disc brakes

On versions Almera G15 with rear disc brakes (usually 1.6 Tekna or Elegance) the replacement process is simpler, but there are some nuances. Here the pads are changed in the same way as the front ones, but taking into account the integrated parking brake (electromechanical or cable, depending on the year of manufacture).

Important points:

• 🔧 Before replacing pads Be sure to remove the car from the handbrake and disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (if the parking brake is electromechanical).
• 🔧 To press in the caliper piston, you will need a special tool - device for screwing in the piston (on Almera G15 The piston is screwed in clockwise).
• 🔧 After replacing the pads, you must bleed the brakes (especially if the piston was pressed in too deeply).

Part numbers for disc brake pads:

Manufacturer	Article	Price (set), rub.	Notes
Nissan (original)	40520-4M000 / 40520-4M001	3 200–3 800	Lubricant for guides included
ATE	13.0460-7166.2	2 100–2 400	Low dust generation
Ferodo	FDB1886	1 900–2 200	Suitable for aggressive riding
TRW	GDB1835	1 700–2 000	The first 100–200 km may creak

Common mistakes when replacing pads and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to premature pad wear or brake system malfunctions. Let's look at the most common ones:

1. Unlubricated caliper guides — leads to jamming and uneven wear of the pads. Always clean and lubricate the guides high temperature grease (For example, Slipkote 220-R DBC).
2. Ignoring the condition of the brake discs/drums. If the working surface has deep grooves or undulations, the pads will wear out quickly. Permissible thickness of rear brake discs Almera G15 - no less 10 mm.
3. Incorrect installation of springs on drum brakes. If the tension springs are twisted or loose, the pads will wobble, resulting in loss of braking performance.
4. Forgetting to adjust the handbrake. After replacing the pads on the drum brakes, be sure to check the tension of the handbrake cable (the norm is 3–5 clicks until it is completely locked).

Another common problem is lubricant getting on the friction material of the pads. Even a small amount of oil or grease on the working surface of the pad will lead to a sharp decrease in braking efficiency. If this happens, the pads will have to be replaced - it is impossible to clean them.

What to do if after replacing the pads the brakes are “wobbly”?

This may be caused by air in the system (needs bleeding) or incomplete adhesion of the pads to the disc/drum. Try to brake hard several times on an empty road - if the problem persists, check the tightness of the brake hoses and the fluid level.

Cost of replacing rear pads: service station vs self-repair

Rear pad replacement cost Almera G15 varies depending on brake type and region:

• 💰 Drum brakes: from 1,500 to 2,500 rubles for work in the service (excluding the cost of the pads).
• 💰 Disc brakes: from 2,000 to 3,000 rubles (Additionally, brake fluid may need to be replaced).

If you change the pads yourself, the savings will be 1,500–3,000 rubles, but only if you have the tools and experience. Please note that service stations often offer additional services that may be useful:

• 🔧 Bleeding the brake system (500–800 rubles).
• 🔧 Cleaning and lubricating the caliper guides (300–500 rubles).
• 🔧 Diagnostics of brake discs/drums (free when replacing pads).

When choosing a service, give preference to those who specialize in Nissan or Japanese cars. Be sure to check whether they use original consumables or high-quality analogues (for example, ATE or Ferodo), since some service stations skimp on parts.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about rear pads Almera G15

Is it possible to put front pads on rear brakes (and vice versa)?

No, that's impossible. Front and rear pads on Almera G15 They have different shapes, friction material compositions and fastenings. In addition, the rear shoes (especially on drum brakes) are integrated with the handbrake mechanism, making their interchangeability impossible.

How long do the rear pads on the Almera G15 last in city mode?

On average 40–60 thousand km, but the duration depends on the driving style. With frequent short trips with heavy braking (for example, in traffic jams), wear accelerates to 25–30 thousand km. On the track, the pads last longer - up to 70–80 thousand km.

Do brake drums and pads need to be replaced?

Not necessary if the drums do not have deep grooves (more 1 mm) or ovality (checked with a micrometer). However, if the inner diameter of the drum exceeds 201.5 mm (for Almera G15), it needs to be replaced or sharpened.

Why did a squeak appear after replacing the pads?

Creak for the first time 100–300 km — a normal phenomenon (grinding in pads). If the sound does not disappear longer, possible reasons:

• Low-quality friction material (typical of cheap analogues).
• Sand or dirt getting between the pad and disc/drum.
• Lack of anti-creaking plates (if they are provided for in the design).

Solution: Clean the brake mechanism, check the installation of the pads, or replace them with pads from another manufacturer.

Is it possible to drive if the friction material of the pad has been worn down to metal?

Absolutely not! This leads to:

• Rapid wear of the brake disc/drum (replacement required).
• Increased risk of brake jamming.
• Reduced braking efficiency by 2–3 times.

If the pad is worn down to metal, replace it as soon as possible and check the condition of the brake disc/drum.