The braking system is a critical safety element of any vehicle, and Nissan Almera G15 no exception. The rear brakes in this model are often represented by a drum mechanism, which many owners mistakenly consider to be eternal, forgetting about the need for periodic maintenance.
Wear of the friction linings leads to an increase in braking distance, the appearance of extraneous sounds and overheating of the drum. If you notice a squeaking sound when braking or a decrease in pedal efficiency, you should immediately check the condition of the parts.
Replacing pads yourself Nissan Almera G15 - a task quite feasible for a car owner with a basic set of tools. However, the process has its own technical nuances, especially when working with the handbrake mechanism and springs.
Wear diagnostics and preparation for work
Before proceeding with disassembly, you need to make sure that replacement is necessary. For Nissan Almera G15 The factory resource of the rear pads ranges from 40 to 60 thousand kilometers, but the actual figure greatly depends on driving style and road conditions.
The first sign of wear is a specific metallic grinding noise that occurs when the brake disc or drum touches the metal base of the pad. It is also worth paying attention to how the car behaves under heavy braking.
You need to visually assess the thickness of the friction layer through the inspection window on the back cover or by removing the wheel, if the design allows it. If the layer is less than 2 mm, the vehicle cannot be used.
- 🔍 Inspect the brake drum for deep grooves and burrs.
- 📏 Measure the thickness of the friction lining with a caliper.
- 🔊 Listen to the sounds when reversing with light pressure on the pedal.
Worksite preparation plays a key role in the success of the operation. Make sure the vehicle is on a level surface and securely supported by wheel chocks.
You will need a standard set of wrenches, a jack and a support stand. Don't forget to have brake cleaner and slide lube ready.
⚠️ Caution: Never press the brake pedal after removing the wheel, as the piston may come completely out of the cylinder and damage the O-rings.
Necessary tools and consumables
For quality replacement work rear pads on Nissan Almera G15 requires a specific set of tools. A regular set of keys may not be enough due to the design of the drum mechanism.
You will definitely need a brake pad spring remover, as removing them without a special tool is difficult and can lead to injury. A metal brush is also useful for cleaning the seats.
High-quality spare parts are the key to safety. Choose original parts or proven analogues from brands Nissan, TRW, ATE or Remsa. Cheap Chinese kits often have uneven wear and a low coefficient of friction.
- 🛠️ Puller for brake springs (or powerful pliers).
- 🧴Brake Cleaner in a bottle.
- 🔧 Socket wrenches for 12, 14 and 17 millimeters.
- 🔨 A hammer with a rubber striker for removing the drum.
Pay special attention to lubrication. Use only special high-temperature caliper lubricant that is not washed out by brake fluid and does not lose its properties when heated.
It is prohibited to use lithol or graphite lubricant on surfaces in contact with friction linings, as this will lead to loss of braking efficiency.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling the drum
The process begins by lifting the car and removing the rear wheel. Unscrew the wheel mounting bolts using a ratchet and move the wheel to the side.
Now you need to remove the brake drum. On Nissan Almera G15 it often sticks or is held in place by guide pins. If the drum cannot be removed by hand, gently tap it with a rubber mallet through a wooden spacer.
In some cases, it is necessary to unscrew the drum securing screw, which may be hidden under a plug in the center of the hub. Use a screwdriver or hex driver depending on the type of screw.
☑️ Tools for dismantling
After removing the drum, you will have access to the internal mechanism. Clean off dust and dirt with a cleaner, but do so carefully to avoid inhaling toxic brake dust.
Carefully inspect the condition of the rear caliper pistons. If they are corroded or do not move, they will need to be replaced or cleaned before installing new pads.
⚠️ Attention: brake dust contains asbestos and other harmful substances, so wear a respirator and safety glasses when working.
Replacing springs and installing new pads
The most difficult stage is removing and installing the springs. They are under high tension, so use a special puller or reliable pliers.
First remove the lower tension spring, then remove the upper springs that hold the pads. Don't forget about the clamps that hold the pads to the base plate.
Installing new pads is done in the reverse order. It is important to fix the springs correctly so that they do not come off while driving.
The nuances of working with the handbrake mechanism
If you removed the handbrake cable, be sure to check its integrity and movement. After assembly, adjust the cable tension through the adjusting nut on the lever or in the suspension. Incorrect adjustment may result in wheel locking or parking brake failure.
When installing new pads, make sure that all contact pads are lubricated with special paste. This will prevent squeaks and vibrations when braking.
You need to check that the caliper piston is recessed. If it sticks out too much, the new pads simply won't fit into place.
- 🔧 Install the upper pads onto the base plate.
- 🔩 Fasten the clamps and install the lower spring.
- 🔗 Connect the handbrake cable to the pad lever.
- 🛡️ Check the free movement of all parts before installing the drum.
If you are using a threaded plunger to screw in, use a special push-in tool. This cannot be done with a regular jack.
Technical characteristics and selection of spare parts
Understanding the technical parameters of the brake system will help you make the right choice. For Nissan Almera G15 With rear drum brakes, there are certain standards.
The drum size is usually 180 mm or 200 mm depending on the vehicle configuration. You cannot make a mistake with the size, as this will make installation impossible.
| Parameter | Value for Nissan Almera G15 |
|---|---|
| Brake type | Drum |
| Drum diameter | 200 mm (standard) |
| Pad thickness (new) | 15-16 mm |
| Minimum thickness | 2 mm |
| Recommended Brand | Nissan, TRW, ATE |
When choosing a kit, pay attention to the presence of all the necessary springs and clamps in the box. Often cheap analogues are sold only as a set of pads without springs, which complicates repairs.
Friction linings must be firmly glued to the metal base. The presence of gaps or cracks in the adhesive seam is a defect.
- Original Nissan
- Premium brands (ATE, Brembo)
- Budget analogues
- I don't know, please advise
The price of quality pads may vary, but the savings on safety are not justified. Cheap linings can quickly wear out or damage the drum itself.
Pay attention to the labeling on the packaging. It must match the VIN code of your car to avoid selection errors.
Nuances of assembly and adjustment of the handbrake
After installing the new pads and springs, the assembly stage begins. Reinstall the brake drum, making sure it rotates freely and does not touch the pads.
You need to adjust the parking brake. This is done through the adjusting nut, which is usually accessible under the trunk floor or in the area of the lever.
Correct adjustment ensures that the vehicle is locked on a slope with 2-4 clicks of the handbrake lever. If the lever moves too easily or too tightly, the adjustment must be repeated.
Before installing the wheel, clean the mating surface of the disk and hub from rust to avoid wheel runout when driving.
Secure the drum with the guide screws and put on the wheel. Do not tighten the wheel bolts until the vehicle is on the ground.
Lower the vehicle, then tighten the wheel bolts with a torque wrench to the torque specified in the owner's manual. Nissan Almera G15 (usually about 100-110 Nm).
It is critical to test the handbrake on a safe area of the road before entering a busy highway.
Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. After installing new pads, the level may rise slightly as the pistons go deeper. If the level is above the maximum, pump out excess fluid.
You need to press the brake pedal all the way down several times to get the pads in the correct position and seal.
Common mistakes and expert advice
Many car owners make the mistake of not cleaning the guides and bearing pads before installing new pads. This leads to jamming of the mechanism and uneven wear.
Sometimes people forget to lubricate the handbrake cable. This can lead to it jamming in winter or when exposed to moisture.
⚠️ Attention: if extraneous noise appears after replacing the pads, immediately stop using the unit and check for correct assembly.
Do not use brake cleaner on rubber parts or paintwork as it may damage them.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. Incorrect installation can cost you your safety on the road.
What to do if the drum cannot be removed?
Often the drum gets stuck to the hub. In this case, try tapping it lightly through the spacer. If that doesn't work, apply penetrating lubricant to the studs and leave for 10-15 minutes. As a last resort, you can use a puller, but be careful not to damage the wheel bearings.
Compliance with technology and the use of quality materials is the key to long service life of the brake system. Check the condition of the pads and drums regularly.
Replacing rear pads with Nissan Almera G15 - this is an excellent opportunity to check the condition of the entire rear suspension and brake system as a whole.
Answers to frequently asked questions
How long do rear pads last on a Nissan Almera G15?
On average, rear drum pads on the Almera G15 last from 40 to 60 thousand kilometers, but the actual service life depends on driving style and the quality of the road surface. With intensive driving in the city, wear may occur earlier.
Is it possible to change the pads without removing the drum?
No, for a quality replacement and checking the condition of the mechanism, it is necessary to remove the brake drum. This will allow you to clean the parts, lubricate the guides and make sure there are no defects.
Do I need to change the drum along with the pads?
It is recommended to change the drum along with the pads if it has deep grooves, cracks, or if it is worn to the maximum thickness. In other cases, grooving the drum or cleaning it is sufficient.
How can you tell if the pads are worn out?
The main signs are: a metallic squeak or grinding sound when braking, an increased braking distance, vibration of the pedal or steering wheel, and a visual thickness of the friction layer of less than 2 mm.
After replacing the pads, be sure to press the brake pedal several times with the engine off to restore normal pedal travel before driving.
Regular vehicle maintenance extends its life and ensures the safety of you and your passengers. Don't ignore signs of wear and replace them promptly.