The braking system is a critical component of any vehicle, and Nissan Almera is no exception. Owners of this model are often faced with the need to service the rear circuit, which in most configurations is designed as a drum mechanism. This design solution, although it looks archaic, is highly reliable, but requires the right approach to the selection of consumables.
Many car enthusiasts make the mistake of ignoring the condition of the rear brakes until squeaking occurs or braking efficiency decreases. In fact, timely replacement brake pads avoids costly repairs brake drum or damage working cylinder. In this article we will analyze all the nuances of choosing, replacing and operating the brake system on a Nissan Almera.
Design features of Almera rear brakes
The rear axle of the Nissan Almera (both the old generation G11 and the new G15) is equipped with drum brakes. This is a classic solution for the budget segment, which provides sufficient efficiency at a moderate cost of maintenance. Inside brake drum There are two pads that are released by the pistons of the working cylinder when you press the brake pedal.
The main feature of this system is the need to manually adjust the gap between the shoe and the drum in some cases, as well as the presence of a parking brake mechanism (handbrake) integrated directly into the brake assembly. Understanding the device helps to avoid mistakes when installing new ones. brake linings.
It is worth noting that the rear pads are Nissan Almera wear out more slowly than the front ones, since the main load during braking falls on the front axle. However, this does not mean that they can be changed every 100 thousand kilometers. Operating conditions, road surface quality and driving style directly affect the service life of parts.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear a metallic grinding sound when reversing or when you lightly press the pedal, this may mean that the friction layer is completely worn out and the metal of the pad is rubbing against the metal of the drum.
Criteria for selecting quality consumables
The auto parts market is full of offers, and choose reliable brake pads it can be difficult. For Nissan Almera, it is recommended to give preference to original parts or proven analogues from the premium segment. Original from Nissan guarantees ideal compliance with the geometry and composition of the friction material, but is much more expensive than analogues.
Among the popular manufacturers are Nibk, TRW, ATE and Galfer. These brands offer products that are equal in performance to the original, and sometimes even surpass it in terms of heat resistance. It is important to pay attention to the marking of the article, since catalog numbers may differ in different markets (Europe, Asia, Russia).
When choosing, also consider the friction lining material. Ceramic compounds provide less dust and more consistent braking at high temperatures, but are more expensive. Organic and semi-metallic compounds are more affordable, but can wear out the drum faster under aggressive driving.
- 🛑 Always check for a quality certificate on the package before purchasing.
- 🔍 Compare the articles on the manufacturer’s website with the catalog number on your car.
- 📦 Avoid purchasing spare parts in damaged or taped packaging.
Replacement dates and signs of wear
It is difficult to determine the exact resource of the rear pads on a Nissan Almera, as it depends on many factors. On average, manufacturers recommend checking their condition every 30-40 thousand kilometers. However, a visual inspection should be carried out regularly, especially if you notice changes in the vehicle's behavior.
The main sign of wear is a change in sound when braking. A squeak, squeak or metallic clang indicates that the friction layer has reached its minimum thickness. Also pay attention to the brake pedal: if it has become softer or requires more force to stop, this is a reason for diagnosis.
Sometimes wear can be uneven. For example, one pad may wear out faster due to a stuck piston in working cylinder or contamination of the guides. In such cases, always change the pads in pairs on the same axle to maintain a balance of braking forces.
⚠️ Attention: Ignoring wear can lead to the destruction of the inner surface of the brake drum, which will require regrowing or complete replacement, significantly increasing the cost of repairs.
- Original (Nissan)
- TRW
- ATE
- Nibk
- Budget analogues
Necessary tools and preparation
Before starting work on replacing the rear brake pads, Nissan Almera it is necessary to prepare the appropriate tool. You will need a jack, wheel chocks, a set of wrenches and sockets, and special tools for compressing the brake cylinder piston. Without the right tools, the process may take longer or cause damage.
It is necessary to have a mounting blade for removing the springs and pliers for compressing them. Brake cleaner and lubricant for the guides and pad contacts will also come in handy. It is better to carry out the work on a level area with good lighting, preferably in a garage or on a lift.
Before starting work, you need to loosen the rear wheel bolts and then jack up the car. Do not forget to place safety stops under the body for safety. Remove the wheel and clean the brake mechanism from dirt and dust to prevent abrasive particles from getting inside the drum.
- 🔧 Prepare a set of 12, 14, 17 and 19 mm heads.
- 🧼 Be sure to buy a can of brake cleaner.
- 🛡️ Use gloves and glasses to protect against dust and chemicals.
☑️ Preparing to replace pads
Step-by-step instructions for replacing pads
The replacement process begins with removing the brake drum. On Nissan Almera it is usually secured with two screws using a Phillips or hex screwdriver, and is also held in place by a fit on the hub. If the drum is stuck, you can gently tap it with a rubber mallet or use a puller.
After removing the drum, you will see a mechanism with two shoes, springs and a working cylinder. First, remove the upper and lower springs that hold the pads in place. Then disconnect the parking brake cable from the lever on the shoe. Be careful not to damage the rubber cable boot.
Next, you need to remove the spacer bar and the working cylinder itself (if replacement is required). Install new pads, first lubricating the contact points with high-temperature grease. You need to reassemble the mechanism in the reverse order, making sure that the springs are securely fixed and the handbrake cable moves freely.
How to compress the piston of the working cylinder?
The piston in drum brakes is compressed by rotating rather than being pressed in. Use a special tool or pliers to rotate the piston clockwise until the marks on it align with the cylinder body. Do not try to force it in, as this may damage the seals.
Install the new brake drum and secure it with screws. Put the wheel on and lower the car. After installing all the pads, you need to press the brake pedal several times so that the pistons fall into place and the gap between the pads and the drum is restored.
It is important to check the operation of the parking brake. The lever should lock into place with 3-5 clicks. If the handbrake does not hold or, on the contrary, is tightened too tightly, adjustment will be required through the hatch in the brake drum or under the bottom of the car.
Specifications and brand comparison
For clarity, here is a comparison table of popular brands of brake pads for Nissan Almera. Data is based on average brake life and performance based on independent testing and owner reviews.
| Brand | Material type | Average resource (km) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan (Original) | Organic composite | 40 000 - 50 000 | Ideal geometry, quiet operation |
| TRW | Semi-metallic | 35 000 - 45 000 | High temperature resistance, little dust |
| Nibk | Ceramic | 50 000 - 60 000 | Little dust, stable braking |
| ATE | Special alloy | 30 000 - 40 000 | Excellent performance in rain |
Choosing a specific brand depends on your priorities. If silence and lack of dust are important to you, ceramic pads Nibk will be an excellent choice. If you often drive on the highway and require high braking performance, it is better to choose TRW or original.
⚠️ Attention: Never mix pads of different brands on the same axle. This can lead to different coefficients of friction and uneven braking, which is dangerous on slippery roads.
Frequent maintenance errors
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when replacing rear brake pads with Nissan Almera. One of the most common problems is incorrect clearance adjustment. If the gap is too large, the brake pedal will sink, and if it is too small, the pads will constantly rub against the drum, causing overheating.
Another mistake is using the wrong lubricant. Regular lithium or graphite grease can melt at high temperatures and get into the friction linings, causing loss of braking performance. Use only special high-temperature lubricants for brake systems.
They also often forget to clean the guides and pad seats from old dirt and corrosion. This causes the pads to jam and not return to their original position after braking. Regular cleaning of the mechanism prolongs the life of all components.
Before installing new pads, be sure to clean the seats with a wire brush and degrease them with brake cleaner to ensure a perfect fit and no vibration.
Results and recommendations for use
Timely replacement of rear brake pads on a Nissan Almera is the key to your safety and the safety of other components of the braking system. Do not skimp on the quality of spare parts, as the cost of repairing a drum or cylinder can be several times higher than the cost of good pads.
Perform a visual inspection of the brake mechanism regularly, especially if you notice unusual noises or changes in pedal behavior. The right choice of brand and proper installation will provide you with confidence on the road and comfortable driving.
Remember that the braking system requires an integrated approach. When changing pads, always check the condition of the drum, cylinder and handbrake cables. This is the only way to guarantee the durability and reliability of the entire assembly.
Regularly checking and replacing rear pads prevents costly repairs to drums and cylinders, ensuring driving safety on your Nissan Almera.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to replace only the friction linings and not the entire pad?
This is theoretically possible, but in practice it is highly not recommended for Nissan Almera. The metal base of the pad often becomes deformed after use, and gluing a new pad will not provide proper contact with the drum. This can lead to vibrations and uneven wear. It is better to change the pad assembly.
Do I need to grind the brake drum when replacing the pads?
This depends on the condition of the drum surface. If it has deep marks, grooves or has significant wear in diameter, a groove is necessary. If the surface is smooth and within the acceptable size, there is no need to grind. Grooving reduces the life of the drum, as it removes a layer of metal.
How often do you need to change the rear pads on a Nissan Almera?
The average service life is 40-60 thousand kilometers, but it all depends on driving style and road conditions. It is recommended to check their thickness every 20 thousand kilometers during scheduled maintenance.
What should I do if the brake pedal is soft after replacing the pads?
Most likely, there is air in the system or the pistons are not fully seated. Try pressing the brake pedal vigorously several times with the engine running. If this does not help, the brake system will need to be bled.
Is it possible to drive a Nissan Almera without rear brakes if the front ones are working?
No, this is strictly prohibited. The braking system works as a single unit, and the absence of rear braking upsets the balance, increases stopping distance and can cause the vehicle to skid, especially on slippery roads. This is a gross violation of safety rules.