The braking system is the foundation of any vehicle's safety, and Nissan Almera G15 is no exception. The rear brakes in this model are often made in the form of a drum unit, which creates certain difficulties when independently replacing consumables compared to disc counterparts. However, understanding the structure of the mechanism allows you to perform the work efficiently and without unnecessary costs in service.
Correct replacement rear pads requires not only the availability of tools, but also knowledge of the specifics of the work Nissan Almera. Errors when opening the mechanism or installing it can lead to reduced braking efficiency, squeaking and premature wear of new parts. In this material we will analyze each stage of the process, from preparation to final inspection.
Preparation and necessary tools
Before you begin, you need to organize your workspace and collect all the required tools. The absence of a specialized wrench for spreading the pistons or a jack of suitable lifting capacity can delay the process or make it impossible.
You will need standard 12- and 14-gauge wrenches, a ratchet with socket set, and a flathead and Phillips screwdriver. Pay special attention puller for brake springs, since it is extremely difficult to manually retract them without the risk of damage.
- 🔧 Set of open-end wrenches and ratchet
- 🔨 Hammer and punch (for knocking out guides)
- 🛢 WD-40 fluid or equivalent for thread processing
- 🧼Brake cleaner (spray)
- 🧤 Gloves and safety glasses
Be sure to check the condition of the jack and body stands. Working on an unstable support is unacceptable, as the vehicle may shift during the process of removing a wheel or dismantling a drum.
⚠️ Attention: Do not start work if the car is only on a jack. Be sure to install safety stands under the sills or side members to secure the body.
Removing the wheel and drum mechanism
The process begins by placing the car on a level surface and applying the hand brake. However, to remove the drum on the rear axle, the handbrake must be released, since the pads are separated and will not allow the part to be removed.
First, loosen the wheel bolts while the vehicle is stationary. Jack up the rear, remove the wheel and secure the body. Now you can begin to dismantle the brake drum itself. Often it sits tightly due to corrosion or wear and tear.
- 🔩 Unscrew the drum guide pins (if any)
- 🔨 Gently hit the inside of the drum with a hammer through the wooden spacer
- 🧼 Clean the surface of dirt before removing
If the drum does not budge, the adjusting mechanism may have spread the shoes too far. In this case, it is necessary to unscrew the adjusting hole or use a screwdriver through the service hatch in the caliper to bring the pads closer to the center.
Removal and inspection of old components
Removing the drum gives you access to the inside of the brake assembly. The pads themselves, the return springs, the spacer bar and the handbrake mechanism are located here. The condition of these parts directly affects the efficiency of the entire system.
Inspect carefully working cylinders for brake fluid leakage. Even the slightest oil stain indicates the need to replace the piston seals or the entire cylinder assembly. Dirt and rust on the guides can cause uneven wear.
- 🔍 Check the thickness of the friction linings of old pads
- 🔩 Assess the condition of the spacer bar and its threads
- 🧼 Clean all metal elements from rust
The springs must be removed carefully, using a special hook or pliers, so as not to injure your fingers or damage the mechanism. Remember or take a photo of the installation diagram for the springs, as they have different lengths and stiffnesses.
⚠️ Caution: When removing springs, they may spring back with great force. Hold the tool securely and wear safety glasses.
- Complete set of keys
- Basic set only
- No special tool
- I plan to buy in the process
Installing new pads and adjusting
Installing new elements requires precision. Friction linings on new pads Nissan Almera G15 must fit perfectly to the working surfaces of the drum. Any misalignment will cause vibration and noise when braking.
First install the spacer bar, then secure the upper and lower springs. Pay special attention to the handbrake adjustment mechanism - it should move freely, but have no play.
- 🛠 Lubricate the contact points of the pads with the support shield with graphite lubricant
- 🔩 Make sure the springs are inserted into the grooves until they click
- ⚙️ Adjust the gap between the pads and the drum
For proper adjustment, use a special wrench or screwdriver through the hole in the shield. Rotate the adjusting gear until the shoes lightly touch the drum as it turns, then back up a few turns to create operating clearance.
☑️ Check before installing the drum
Assembling the unit and checking the brakes
Once all internal components are installed, the brake drum can be put on. It should fit onto the hub without effort. If you feel resistance, check the correct installation of the spacer bar and the condition of the guide pins.
Secure the drum and install the wheel. Before driving, be sure to press the brake pedal several times to spread the pads and restore normal pressure in the system. This is a critical stage, without which the first departure will be dangerous.
- 🚗 Lower the car to the ground and tighten the wheels with a torque wrench
- 🛑 Press the brake pedal 5-10 times until the stop appears
- 🔊 Check for any extraneous sounds when moving
When driving for the first time at low speed, test the brakes. They should operate smoothly, without skidding of one of the axles. If pounding or squeaking is felt, re-adjustment or inspection of the installation may be required.
What to do if the drum cannot be removed?
If the drum is stuck to the hub, do not try to knock it out with a hammer in the center - you can damage the bearings. Use penetrating lubricant around the perimeter of the seat, allow it to soak in, and gently tap the end of the drum. In extreme cases, you can use a puller, but be extremely careful not to break the cast iron body.
Typical errors and maintenance nuances
Many owners Nissan Almera make the same mistake by ignoring cleaning the caliper guides. Dirty guides cause the pads to not move away from the disc or drum, causing overheating and rapid wear.
Also often forgotten is changing the brake fluid, which absorbs moisture over time. This lowers the boiling point of the fluid and can lead to pedal “sink” during heavy braking.
⚠️ Attention: Never use silicone brake lubricants - they destroy the rubber seals and lead to brake failure.
Regular diagnostics of the braking system allows you to identify problems at an early stage. Pay attention to changes in the color of the brake fluid and the presence of metal shavings in it.
| Detail | Wear rate | Critical wear | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friction lining | more than 4 mm | less than 2 mm | Replacement |
| Brake drum | up to 180 mm | more than 182 mm | Grooving or replacement |
| Working cylinder | no leakage | fluid leakage | Replacing the repair kit |
| Springs | elastic | stretched | Replacement with a kit |
If you are changing pads on only one axle, be sure to check the condition of the second one. Uneven wear can lead to loss of control during emergency braking.
Final Recommendations
Replacing rear pads with Nissan Almera G15 - the task is feasible for any car owner with basic repair skills. The main thing is to follow the sequence of actions and use high-quality spare parts. Skimping on consumables can lead to serious safety problems.
After completing the work, be sure to check the brake fluid level in the expansion tank. If necessary, add the same type of fluid specified in the manufacturer's instructions.
- 🛡 Use only original spare parts or proven analogues
- 🔧 Carry out regular diagnostics of the brake system
- 📝 Keep records of mileage and time of replacement of consumables
A properly maintained car is a guarantee of your safety and the safety of surrounding road users. Do not neglect prevention and be careful on the roads.
High-quality replacement of rear pads requires not only new parts, but also thorough cleaning, lubrication of contact surfaces and correct adjustment of the handbrake clearance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to replace rear pads on an Almera G15?
If you have the necessary tools and experience, the process takes from 40 minutes to 1 hour per side. For a beginner without experience, it may take more time, about 2 hours.
Do I need to change the drum when replacing the pads?
Replacement of the drum is required only if it is critically worn or has deep burrs. If the diameter is within the normal range, grooving it or simply cleaning it from dust is enough.
How do you know when it's time to change the pads?
The presence of wear is indicated by squeaking when braking, a decrease in brake efficiency, as well as visual inspection through technological holes or removing the drum.
Is it possible to lubricate the friction linings themselves?
Absolutely not. Lubricating the friction linings will lead to loss of traction and complete brake failure. Only the metal points of contact with the support shield are lubricated.