Rear brake pads on Nissan Almera G15 is a critical safety element that is often overlooked. Unlike the front ones, the rear pads wear out more slowly, but their condition directly affects the stability of braking, especially in emergency situations. Owners Almera G15 (2012-2019) experience typical problems such as squealing when braking, increased pedal travel, or uneven wear. In this article, we’ll look at how to choose pads by part number, when to change them, and why saving on the brand can result in costly repairs.

Features of the rear brake system Almera G15 — drum mechanisms on basic configurations and disc mechanisms on versions with an engine 1.6 HR16DE. This means that the approach to choosing and replacing pads will vary. We analyzed owner reviews, independent expert tests, and manufacturer data to create a checklist of purchasing criteria. And we’ll also reveal The secret to extending pad life by 30% at no extra cost (spoiler: it’s all a matter of proper running-in).

1. How to determine that the rear pads of a Nissan Almera G15 need to be replaced?

The first sign of wear is characteristic metal creaking when braking. This is a signal that the friction layer has worn down to a minimum thickness, and now the metal base of the pad is in contact with the brake disc or drum. But there are also less obvious symptoms:

  • 🔴 Increased brake pedal travel - requires more effort to stop.
  • 🔴 Vibration or beat in the pedal when pressed (especially at speeds above 60 km/h).
  • 🔴 Uneven wear — one pad wears out faster than the other (checked visually).
  • 🔴 Traces of brake dust on wheels with metallic inclusions.

For Almera G15 with rear disc brakes critical thickness of the friction layer - 2–3 mm. On drum systems, wear is determined by the inner diameter of the drum: if it exceeds 201.5 mm (for original parts), pads and drum must be replaced. You can check this with a caliper or at a service station.

⚠️ Attention: If the brake pedal becomes soft after replacing the pads, this may indicate Master brake cylinder malfunction or air entering the system. In this case, the brakes need to be bled!
📊 How often do you check the condition of your rear brake pads?
  • Every 10,000 km
  • Once a year
  • Only when a squeak appears
  • Never checked

2. Original vs. analogues: which pads are better for Almera G15?

Original pads from Nissan (article for rear disc brakes - 40520-4M000, for drums - 40500-JM000) guarantee perfect compatibility, but are often overpriced. Alternative brands offer similar quality at a more affordable price. Below is a comparison table of popular options:

Brand Article (disk) Article (drum) Average price, ₽ Features
Nissan (original) 40520-4M000 40500-JM000 3 500–4 200 Soft friction material, minimal disc wear
Akebono ACT907A ASD0198 2 800–3 300 Japanese quality, low noise
Brembo P 24 063 P 24 064 3 000–3 600 High temperature resistance, suitable for aggressive driving style
TRW GDB1448 GDB340 2 500–3 100 Optimal price/quality ratio, common in stores
Ferodo FDB1448 FDB340 2 200–2 700 Budget option, but prone to increased wear and tear

When choosing analogues, pay attention to ECE R90 certification is a European standard confirming the safety of friction materials. Uncertified pads may contain asbestos or other harmful contaminants that reduce the life of brake rotors.

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If you prefer original pads, but want to save money, look for them by article number Denso or Akebono - these brands often supply spare parts to the Nissan assembly line under different catalog numbers.

3. Step-by-step instructions for replacing rear pads on Almera G15

Replacing rear pads with Almera G15 requires care, especially when it comes to drum brakes. For disk systems the process is simpler, but there are some nuances with calipers. Below are universal instructions suitable for both types.

Required tools:

  • 🔧 Set of sockets and keys (14, 17, 19 mm).
  • 🔧 Jack and wheel stops.
  • 🔧 Puller for brake drums (if drum brakes).
  • 🔧 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant.
  • 🔧 Brake fluid DOT-4 (for topping up).
  • 🔧 Gloves and safety glasses.

Loosen the wheel nuts on the jack|Raise the car and install jack stands|Remove the wheel and clean the brake mechanism from dirt|Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir-->

Step 1: Removing the old kit

For disc brakes:

  1. Remove the wheel and clean the caliper of dirt.
  2. Unscrew the two caliper mounting bolts (usually 14 mm).
  3. Hang the caliper on a wire to avoid damaging the brake hose.
  4. Remove the old pads and clean the guides.

For drum brakes:

  1. Remove the wheel and unscrew the drum guide pins.
  2. If the drum is stuck, use a puller or gently tap it through a wooden spacer with a hammer.
  3. Disconnect the springs and spacer bar, then remove the pads.

Step 2: Installing New Pads

When installing disc pads, apply copper grease on the back side (not on the friction surface!). For drum systems, be sure to check the condition brake cylinder - if it leaks, replacement is required.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the pads do not press the brake pedal until complete assembly! This can push the pistons out of the cylinders, causing fluid to leak.
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Running in new pads takes 200–300 km. During this period, avoid sudden braking so that the friction material rubs evenly onto the disc or drum.

4. Typical mistakes when replacing and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that shorten the life of the pads or lead to breakdowns. Here are the most common:

  • 🚫 Ignoring the condition of the brake discs/drums. If the disc has deep grooves (more than 0.5 mm), the pads will wear out quickly. Solution: resurfacing or replacing the disc.
  • 🚫 Lack of lubrication of caliper guides. This leads to jamming and uneven wear. Use caliper lubricant (For example, SLIPKOTE 220-R DBC).
  • 🚫 Incorrect installation of springs on drum brakes. If the springs are skewed, the pads will rub against the drum even without pressing the pedal.
  • 🚫 Forgetting to bleed the brakes after replacing cylinders or hoses. This can result in a “soft” pedal.

Another common problem is buying pads without taking into account driving style. For example, Ferodo or Bosch Suitable for quiet driving, but wear out quickly with frequent braking. For an aggressive style it is better to choose Brembo or Akebono with increased heat resistance.

What happens if you don't change the pads on time?

When the friction layer is completely worn out, the metal base of the pad scratches the brake disc or drum. This leads to:

1) Increase in braking distance by 1.5–2 times.

2) Risk of brake jamming due to overheating.

3) The need to replace discs/drums (cost from RUB 8,000 per set).

5. How to extend the life of the rear pads?

Average resource of rear pads Almera G15 — 50,000–70,000 km, but with proper operation this figure can be increased to 90,000 km. Here are proven methods:

  • 🔄 Smooth braking. Sudden pedal pressure increases heat and wear.
  • 🔄 Regular brake cleaning (every 10,000 km) to remove abrasive dust.
  • 🔄 Checking the brake fluid level. A low level causes the pads to overheat.
  • 🔄 Using quality lubricants for guides and the back of the pads.

A secret from the service station masters: after replacing the pads, during the first 100 km, avoid engine braking (downshifting on a manual transmission). This helps the friction material “grind in” evenly to the disc, which increases the service life by 20–30%.

6. Cost of replacement in service vs. do-it-yourself repair

Rear pad replacement cost Almera G15 in service varies from 1,500 to 3,500 ₽ per axle (excluding cost of parts). Self-repair will only cost the price of the pads, but will require time and tools. Let's compare the pros and cons:

Criterion Self-replacement Replacement in service
Cost Only the price of pads (from 2,200 ₽) Pads + work (from 3,700 ₽)
Time 2–4 hours (no experience) 1–1.5 hours
Warranty No (risk of errors) Yes (usually 6–12 months)
Tools Full set required Not needed

If you have never worked on the brake system, it is better to trust the professionals. Replacement errors (for example, incorrect installation of springs on drum brakes) can lead to brake failure on the go.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Almera G15 rear pads

Is it possible to put front pads on rear brakes?

No! Front and rear pads differ in friction material composition, size and shape. The front ones are designed for higher loads, and the rear ones are designed for stability during long-term braking. Installing the wrong pads will result in uneven wear and poor braking performance.

How often should you check your rear pads?

Recommended interval - every 20,000 km or once a year. If you frequently drive around town with frequent stops, check every 15,000 km. For drum brakes, a visual inspection through the inspection window in the shield is sufficient. Disc pads are checked through the opening in the wheel.

Why do new pads squeak?

Creak for the first time 100–200 km after replacement - a normal phenomenon (surfaces are rubbing in). If the sound does not disappear, possible reasons:

  • Low-quality friction material (especially for cheap analogues).
  • No anti-squeak plates or lubricant on the back side.
  • Dirt gets between the pad and the disc.

Solution: clean the mechanism and apply a special lubricant (for example, LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste).

Do I need to change the brake fluid when replacing the pads?

Not necessary, but recommended if the fluid has not been changed in more than 2 years or its color has turned dark brown. Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), which lowers its boiling point and increases the risk of brake failure during heavy use.

Is it possible to drive if one pad is worn out?

Highly not recommended! Uneven wear leads to:

  • The car pulls to the side when braking.
  • Increased load on a working pad and its accelerated wear.
  • Risk of damage to the brake disc or drum.

Replace the pads in pairs (on the same axle) even if only one is worn.