Rear brake drum Nissan Almera G15: replacement and maintenance guide

The rear brake system of your Nissan Almera generation G15 works according to the classical scheme using drum mechanisms. This solution, chosen by engineers, provides high reliability and sufficient efficiency for passenger cars in the budget segment. Unlike disc systems, which are often found on front wheels, drums are protected from dirt and water, which extends their life if properly maintained.

However, over time, parts wear out, and the owner must face the need for diagnosis or replacement. brake drum. Ignoring the symptoms of a malfunction can lead to reduced braking efficiency, longer stopping distances, and even wheel jams. Understanding the design and timely replacement of consumables is the key to your safety on the road.

Design features and signs of wear

The main element of the system is cast iron or steel brake drum, inside of which there are friction linings of the pads. When you press the brake pedal, the release mechanism spreads the pads, and they are pressed against the inner surface of the rotating drum. Wear occurs gradually, but there are clear signs indicating that the part's life has been exhausted.

The main symptom is the appearance of a specific creaking or grinding noise when braking. If you hear such sounds, most likely the friction linings have worn down to metal or the drum itself has deep grooves. It is also worth paying attention to the beating of the steering wheel or vibration of the body when you press the pedal, which indicates drum deformation.

Visual inspection often reveals cracks on the work surface. Even small chips can lead to destruction of the part during operation. Don’t forget about the brake fluid: if the level in the reservoir has dropped sharply, but there are no leaks under the car, the problem may be swollen cuffs or worn seals in the brake cylinder.

⚠️ Attention: If you notice deep grooves on the inner surface of the drum, simply replacing the pads will not solve the problem. Needs to be sharpened or replaced Nissan Almera G15 drum, otherwise the new pads will quickly become unusable.

• 🔍 Creaking and grinding when braking the rear wheels.
• 🔍 Vibration of the steering wheel when you press the pedal sharply.
• 🔍 Increased brake pedal travel or need to pump the system.
• 🔍 Visual cracks or deep grooves on the inner surface.

Selection of original and analog spare parts

There are a huge number of offers on the auto parts market for Nissan Almera. The official manufacturer indicates the original article, which guarantees full compliance with the dimensions and material. However, quality analogues from trusted brands often offer better value for money.

When choosing, it is important to consider the material of manufacture. Cast iron drums have better heat transfer, but are heavier. Steel counterparts are lighter, but can overheat faster under heavy braking. For city use, the difference is not critical, but for country trips it is better to choose proven brands with a good reputation.

The table below shows the main items for comparison. Please note that numbers may vary depending on year and engine type, so always check your vehicle's VIN before purchasing.

Part type	Manufacturer	Article	Approximate price
Original	Nissan	42431-1HF0A	High
Premium analogue	Nissin	BR-1245	Average
Budget analogue	TRW	DB-8901	Low
Analogue	Febi Bilstein	15678	Average

Don't skimp on critical braking components. Cheap Chinese analogues may have inaccurate dimensions, which will lead to impossibility of installation or rapid wear. Always check the geometry of the part before installation using a caliper.

Tools and preparation for replacement

Rear drum replacement process Nissan Almera G15 does not require sophisticated equipment, but some preparation is required. You will need a set of standard tools, a jack and safety stands. Working with weight is strictly prohibited due to the risk of injury.

Prepare a jack and place the car on a level surface. Secure the front wheels with chocks to prevent the car from rolling. Release the handbrake as it will interfere with the removal of the drum. If the handbrake is too tight, the drum may jam or break when trying to remove it.

You will need the following tools and supplies for quality repairs:

• 🔧 A set of wrenches and sockets (especially 14, 17 and 19 mm).
• 🔧 Hammer and punch for knocking out the hub nut.
• 🔧 Screwdrivers and pliers for removing springs and clamps.
• 🔧 Copper grease for processing threads and contact points.

Clean the area around the drum from dirt and dust. If there is a lot of dirt accumulated there, it may get inside the brake mechanism during disassembly. Use compressed air or a brush to remove dirt. This will simplify the work and extend the life of the new parts.

⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery if you plan to remove the ABS sensor or disassemble the electrical part of the handbrake.

Step-by-step instructions for removal and installation

Removing the drum begins with removing the wheel. After this, you will see the brake mechanism covered with a protective casing. Unscrew the mounting bolts holding the drum to the hub. Sometimes they stick, so a penetrating lubricant may be necessary.

If the drum cannot be removed by hand, try gently tapping it with a rubber mallet. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the seats. In some cases, it is necessary to unscrew the guide pins that hold the drum.

The process of installing a new element requires the reverse sequence of actions. Clean the hub from rust and apply a thin layer of lubricant to the seat. This will prevent the drum from sticking in the future. Install new pads and springs, making sure they are positioned correctly.

What to do if the drum is jammed?

If the drum does not come off even after unscrewing the bolts, it may be stuck to the hub. Try heating it slightly with an industrial hair dryer or gently tapping the sides with a hammer. Do not use a pry bar to pry up the drum, as this may deform the drum or damage the ABS sensor.

After installing a new drum, it is necessary to adjust the gap between the pads and the working surface. On Nissan Almera this is done through a technological hole on the back cover of the mechanism. Rotate the adjusting shaft until the shoes rest against the drum.

The final stage is checking the operation of the handbrake. Tighten it and make sure the wheels lock. Then release the handbrake and check if the wheels rotate freely. If there is binding, the gap must be adjusted again.

Adjusting the gap and setting the hand brake

After replacing the drum and pads, the system requires mandatory adjustment. On the rear axle Nissan Almera G15 a mechanical regulator is used, which automatically adjusts when reversing with the brakes applied. However, for precise tuning it is better to do this manually.

Unscrew the rubber plug on the rear cover of the brake mechanism. Through the resulting hole you will see an adjustment wheel. Rotate it until the shoes are pressed against the drum, then loosen it a little so that the drum rotates with minimal friction.

To adjust the handbrake, use a cable mechanism. Adjust the cable tension so that when the handbrake lever is tightened 3-5 clicks, the wheels are blocked. This will ensure that the vehicle is effectively held on a slope.

⚠️ Attention: If after adjustment the pads still touch the drum when moving, check that the guide springs are installed correctly. Incorrect installation may cause the wheel to jam.

• 🔧 Rotate the adjustment wheel through the technological hole.
• 🔧 Achieve light friction between the drum and the pads.
• 🔧 Adjust the tension of the handbrake cable.
• 🔧 Check the wheel locking with the handbrake tightened.

Don't forget to test the car on a safe part of the road. Brake sharply and make sure that the car stops straight, without pulling to the side. If there are any deviations, check the tire pressure and the condition of the brake cylinders.

Common problems and their solutions

Owners Nissan Almera Often faced with the problem of brake cylinder jamming. This occurs due to moisture and dirt getting inside the mechanism. Symptoms include the wheel overheating and a burning smell. In this case, it is necessary to replace the cylinder or repair it.

Another common problem is brake drum runout. This may be caused by the part becoming deformed due to overheating or improper installation. The beating is felt as a vibration of the brake pedal and body. The solution is to groove the drum or replace it.

If the brakes "drift" to the side, check the condition of the calipers and guides. Also pay attention to the brake hoses: if they are frayed or cracked, the pressure in the system will be uneven. Regular inspection of the brake system will help avoid serious damage.

Sometimes there is a problem with the ABS sensor. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, the corresponding lamp on the instrument panel will light up. Clean the sensor from dirt and check the wiring. If the problem persists, the sensor may need to be replaced.

How to check a brake cylinder?

To check the cylinder, remove the wheel and drum. Clean the mechanism from dust. Try pressing the brake pedal - the pistons should come out smoothly and without jamming. Inspect the boots for cracks. If there are leaks of brake fluid, the cylinder must be replaced.

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular brake system maintenance will extend the life of all components. Once every 10-15 thousand kilometers, inspect the condition of the pads and drums. The cleanliness of the mechanism is the key to its durability. Use special brake cleaners to remove dust and dirt.

Lubricate the guides and contact points of the parts with copper grease. This will prevent corrosion and sticking. Do not use lithol or grease, as they can get on the friction linings and reduce braking efficiency.

Monitor the condition of the brake fluid. Change it every 2 years or 40 thousand kilometers. Old fluid absorbs moisture, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake failure during hard driving.

⚠️ Attention: Using low-quality brake fluid can lead to it boiling during prolonged braking uphill, which will lead to a complete lack of brakes.

• 🔍 Regularly inspect the brake mechanism for wear.
• 🔍 Change brake fluid every 2 years.
• 🔍 Clean the mechanism from dust and dirt.
• 🔍 Lubricate guides and threaded connections.

Taking care of your brake system means taking care of your life and the lives of those around you. Do not put off repairs until later if you notice the slightest signs of malfunction. High-quality spare parts and proper installation will provide you with confidence on the road.

How often do you need to change the rear brake drums on a Nissan Almera G15?

Drum life depends on driving style and operating conditions. On average, they run 60-80 thousand kilometers, but with intense braking, wear can be faster. It is recommended to inspect them every time the pads are replaced.

Is it possible to grind the rear drums of a Nissan Almera?

Yes, grooving is possible if the wall thickness allows it. However for Nissan Almera G15 It is often cheaper and more reliable to replace the entire drum, since they have a small safety margin, and the cost of grooving is comparable to a new part.

Why do rear brakes squeak after replacing the drum?

The squeaking noise can be caused by improperly installed pads, lack of lubrication on the contact pads, or the use of poor quality pads. It is also possible that the new drum has a factory surface defect.

How to check the functionality of the ABS sensor on the rear wheel?

To check the ABS sensor, you need to measure the resistance with a multimeter. It should be in the range of 1000-2000 Ohms. You can also check the wiring for breaks or shorts to ground.

Do I need to replace both rear drums at once?

It is highly recommended to replace drums in pairs. This will ensure uniform braking and prevent the car from pulling to the side when you press the pedal suddenly. Different wear on the right and left wheels can lead to an emergency.