Selection and replacement brake pads on the rear axles of the car Nissan Almera N16 is a critically important process on which the safety of the driver and passengers directly depends. This model, despite its age, remains popular in the secondary market due to its reliability and simplicity of design, but the maintenance requirements for the brake system remain high. Failure to promptly replace consumables can lead to expensive caliper repairs or even loss of control in an emergency.
Owners of sedans and hatchbacks of the N16 series are often faced with a feature of the rear brakes: they are drum brakes, not disc, as many mistakenly believe. This means that instead of the usual brake discs and calipers, they use brake drums and specific pads with a spring. Understanding this design feature is necessary for the correct selection of spare parts and work.
Many car owners neglect to check the rear brakes, believing that the main load falls on the front axle. This misconception is dangerous because during emergency braking, the rear wheels play a key role in stabilizing the car. If rear brake pads worn to the limit, the car may skid or begin to slide when the brake pedal is pressed sharply.
Design features of the rear brakes of Almera N16
Unlike the front wheels, where disc brakes are installed, the rear axle Nissan Almera N16 equipped with classic drum mechanisms. This design was chosen by manufacturers due to its durability, ease of maintenance and ability to effectively cope with loads in quiet city driving conditions.
The main elements of the system are the brake drum, which rotates with the wheel, and an internal block pair. The pads are pressed against the inner surface of the drum by the wheel cylinder pistons, creating the necessary friction to stop the machine. The mechanism also includes a complex system of levers and springs that return the pads to their original position and provide a manual parking brake.
It is important to consider that drum brakes require more careful maintenance, since dust and moisture often get inside the mechanism, which can cause corrosion of the guides and jamming of the pistons. Regular condition check Nissan Almera pads allows you to avoid such problems.
Signs of wear and when it's time to replace parts
Determining the wear of the rear brake pads on the N16 is more difficult than on disc systems, since a visual inspection is only possible after removing the wheel and the drum itself. However, there are indirect signs that should alert the car owner. One of the most obvious symptoms is a characteristic metallic grinding or humming noise that occurs when you press the brake pedal.
- 🔊 Creaking or grinding noise when braking, especially in wet weather
- 📉 Increased brake pedal travel and decreased braking efficiency
- ⚖️ The car pulls to the side when braking hard
- 💥 Knock or play in the rear suspension when driving over bumps
If you notice these symptoms, do not delay your visit to service or self-check. Operating a vehicle with worn pads can cause the brake drum surface to deteriorate, requiring replacement or costly boring. Brake drums have a limited service life, and scuff marks on their surface are often the result of metal-to-metal work.
⚠️ Warning: If you smell a strong burning smell from your tires after driving, stop immediately and check your brakes. This may indicate jammed pads or severe overheating of the mechanism.
In addition, pad wear affects the operation of the handbrake. If the handbrake stops holding the car on a slope even with the lever fully raised, this is a sure sign that rear pads worn down to the minimum permissible thickness of the friction material.
- 15,000 km
- 25,000 km
- 35,000 km
- More than 40,000 km
Manufacturer's choice: original or analogues
The spare parts market offers a huge range of brake pads for Nissan Almera N16, from original products to budget analogues. Original from Nissan (the article usually starts with D5640 or D5641) is distinguished by a high quality friction composition, which ensures stable braking without overheating and dust. However, the price of original spare parts is often too high, which forces owners to look for alternatives.
Among the proven analogues are brands specializing in brake systems. High-quality replacements often exceed the original in terms of service life and absence of squeaks. It is important not to chase the lowest price, since cheap Chinese fakes may contain asbestos or other harmful substances, and also have an unstable friction layer.
- 🏆 Nissan (Original) - standard of quality and compatibility
- 🥈 Nibk - Japanese quality, excellent braking performance
- 🥈 Textar - German standard, durability and comfort
- 🥉 TRW - a reliable brand with a good balance of price and quality
- 🥉 ATE — premium segment, often used in sports trim levels
When choosing, pay attention to the packaging and the presence of protective films on the friction lining. Quality pads are always marked to meet safety standards (eg ECE R90). Brake pads from unknown manufacturers without certification can lead to failure of the braking system at a critical moment.
Articles for ordering
Original number: D5640-1Y000 (for drum brakes). Analogues: Nibk BN1327, Textar 92400102, TRW GS8253. Always check the item number against the vehicle's VIN before purchasing.
Tools and preparation for replacement
Replacing rear brake pads with Nissan Almera N16 - a procedure that can be done with your own hands if you have the necessary set of tools and minimal skills in working with a car. You don't need fancy equipment, but without special tools, removing the drum and compressing the cylinder pistons will be extremely difficult.
Prepare your workplace: the car should be parked on a flat surface, preferably on a pit or overpass. Be sure to use safety chocks under the front wheels and supports under the body, as the jack is not a reliable support for the work. You will need a set of wrenches, a hammer, screwdrivers and a specialized tool for drum brakes.
- 🔧 Set of wrenches and sockets (including 12 and 14 mm wrench)
- 🔨 Hammer and chisel (for knocking out the hub nut)
- 🛠️ Brake drum puller (or homemade hook)
- 🔩 Pliers and pliers (for removing springs)
- 🧼Brake cleaner and guide lube
☑️ Preparing to replace pads
Pay special attention to cleaning the work area. Dirt that gets inside the drum mechanism during disassembly can cause rapid wear of the new pads. Use compressed air or a brush to remove dust, but do so carefully so as not to inhale harmful particles.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing pads
Start the process by removing the wheel and unscrewing the brake drum guides. These bolts often become sticky and may need to be treated with a penetrating lubricant. If the drum cannot be removed by hand, use a puller or gently tap it with a hammer through a wooden spacer to avoid damaging the aluminum.
After removing the drum, you will see a mechanism with springs and levers. Take photographs of the location of all elements so as not to get confused during assembly. Using pliers, carefully remove the upper and lower springs, as well as the pad retainers. Remove the handbrake lever by unscrewing the nut holding it to the rear block.
Before installing new parts, it is necessary to check the condition of the wheel cylinder. Make sure the pistons move freely and there are no brake fluid leaks. If necessary, use a special tool or vice to press the pistons back into the cylinder body to allow the new pads to fit into the drum.
Before installing new pads, be sure to lubricate the contact pads (metal to metal) with a special high-temperature grease, but do not allow the grease to come into contact with the friction linings.
Assembly is carried out in reverse order. Install the handbrake lever on the new pad, secure the clamps, and put on the springs. It is important to make sure that the springs are tensioned evenly and that the pads do not touch the guides. Brake pads must move freely within their seats.
Install the drum and secure it with the guide bolts. Put the wheel on and lower the car. Be sure to depress the brake pedal several times until it becomes stiff so that the pistons are in the correct position. Check the operation of the handbrake, making sure it holds on a slope.
Proper assembly of the handbrake mechanism is critical to safety: if the lever is not adjusted, the pads can burn while driving, causing overheating and a burning smell.
Handbrake adjustment and check
After replacing the pads, the handbrake often needs to be adjusted because the new friction material is thicker. On Nissan Almera N16 this is done through a hatch in the bottom of the car or under the trunk trim. You will need to tighten the nut on the handbrake cable until the lever locks 2-3 clicks when fully raised.
Check the effectiveness of the brakes on a safe section of the road. Start at low speed and do a few gentle braking runs to break in the pads. Then try emergency braking, making sure the car stops straight and without skidding. If the brake pedal feels soft, there may be air in the system and will require bleeding.
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the pads, you hear a knock or feel the steering wheel beating when braking, immediately stop using it and check the correct installation of the parts and the condition of the brake drum.
Regularly checking the condition of your rear brakes should be part of your maintenance schedule. Even if you have not changed the pads, inspect the mechanism every 10-15 thousand kilometers for corrosion, jamming of the pistons and integrity of the springs.
Common mistakes when replacing
Lubrication of friction linings (critically unacceptable), incorrect installation of springs, lack of adjustment of the handbrake, use of rusty guides without cleaning.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions from owners
How long do rear pads last on Nissan Almera N16?
Rear drum pad service life Nissan Almera N16 significantly higher than the front ones and usually ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 km. However, this depends on the driving style, the quality of the road surface and the brand of spare parts used.
Is it possible to change the pads on only one side?
No, it is strictly not recommended to change the pads on only one side. This will result in uneven braking and the vehicle skidding towards the worn side. Always change the pad set on both rear wheels at the same time.
Do I need to grind drums when replacing pads?
Grooving is required only if there are deep grooves on the surface of the drum, burrs or wear of more than 1-2 mm. If the surface is flat and smooth, there is no need to grind - this will only reduce the life of the drum itself.
Why do new pads squeak after replacement?
The creaking of new pads can be caused by several reasons: dirt getting under the lining, lack of lubrication on the metal contacts, low-quality spare parts or the need for grinding in. In most cases, the squeak disappears after 500-1000 km.
How often should you check your rear brakes?
It is recommended to carry out a visual inspection of the rear brake mechanisms at every oil change or every 15,000 km. This will allow timely detection of corrosion, piston jamming or spring wear.