Replacing handbrake pads on a Nissan X-Trail T31: a complete guide with photos and tips

Rear brake pads on Nissan X-Trail T31 (2007–2013) - a consumable that requires attention every 40–60 thousand km or when characteristic symptoms appear: squeaking, reduced effectiveness of the handbrake or increased lever travel. Unlike the front pads, the rear ones are often ignored until the last minute, although their wear directly affects safety - especially on slopes or during emergency braking.

In this article we will analyze step-by-step replacement of handbrake pads on X-Trail T31 taking into account the nuances of the design: from preparing tools to adjusting the handbrake cable. We will focus on typical mistakes that lead to uneven wear or jamming of the mechanism. If you have already encountered replacing the front pads, the rear ones will seem more difficult - here we add automatic gap adjustment and drum work. But with the right approach, the procedure will take no more than 2–3 hours.

When to change handbrake pads on X-Trail T31: signs of wear

The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the rear pads every 20 thousand km, but actual service life depends on driving style and operating conditions. For example, frequent driving around the city with traffic jams or mountainous terrain reduces the resource by 1.5–2 times. The following signals indicate that the pads require replacement:

• 🔊 Creaking or squealing when braking at low speeds - indicates wear of the friction material to the metal base.
• 📏 Increased handbrake lever travel (more than 6-8 clicks) - indicates excessive wear or improper adjustment of the cable.
• 🚗 Pulling the car to the side when braking, uneven wear of the pads or jamming of one of the mechanisms is possible.
• 🔥 Overheating of the rear wheels after a trip, the pads may jam due to corrosion or deformation.

Critical wear is determined by the thickness of the friction layer: if it is less 1.5–2 mm, the pads must be replaced. On X-Trail T31 drum brakes are installed at the rear automatic gap adjustment, therefore, even if the pads are in visually normal condition, they may need to be replaced due to loss of mechanism efficiency.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the pads the handbrake does not hold, do not rush to adjust the cable! First, check whether the springs and spacer are installed correctly - their incorrect installation in 80% of cases leads to a lack of braking effect.

Which pads to choose for Nissan X-Trail T31: original vs analogues

Original pads from Nissan have an article number 40520-4M000 (for versions with ABS) and 40520-4M025 (without ABS). Their average price is 3,500–4,500 rub. per set. However, many owners choose analogues, which are often not inferior in quality, but are 30–50% cheaper. The table below shows the tested options:

Brand	Article	Price (per set), rub.	Features
Nissan (original)	40520-4M000	3 500–4 500	Optimal resource, minimal noise
Akebono	ACT907A	2 800–3 200	Soft friction material, suitable for aggressive riding
Brembo	P 68 016	3 000–3 500	Improved cooling, suitable for harsh conditions
TRW	GDB1465	2 500–2 900	Budget option with good wear resistance
Ferodo	FDB1637	2 700–3 100	Low dust level, suitable for urban use

When choosing analogues, pay attention to friction material composition: pads with high metal content (semi-metallic) last longer, but wear out the drum more. Ceramic (ceramic) produce less dust and are quieter, but may slow down worse at low temperatures. For X-Trail T31 optimal choice - Akebono or Brembo, if the budget allows.

Tools and materials for replacement: complete list

To work, you will need a standard set of tools, but there are also specific devices. Without them, the process may be delayed or result in damage to parts. Here's what you need to prepare:

• 🔧 Keys and heads: spanners for 10, 12, 14, 17, socket head on 30 for the hub nut.
• 🔨 Special tools: a puller for locking rings, sliding pliers for springs, a hammer with a rubber striker.
• 🛠️ Other: WD-40 or similar cleaner, copper guide grease, brake fluid (in case of bleeding).
• 📋 Additionally: jack, wheel chocks, gloves, rags.

Pay special attention brake lubricant. Do not use regular lithol or graphite - they cannot withstand high temperatures. Best option: Molykote G-Rapid Plus or Permatex 24110. Also useful metal brush for cleaning the drum from rust and dirt.

⚠️ Attention: If on your X-Trail T31 discs are installed at the rear (restyled versions), the procedure for replacing the handbrake pads is radically different! In this case, it is necessary to dismantle the caliper and replace the disc brake pads, not drum brakes.

Remove the car from the handbrake|Loosen the wheel nuts|Raise the rear end on a jack and install jack stands|Remove the wheel and clean the brake mechanism from dirt-->

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove old pads

The process begins with dismantling the drum - the most labor-intensive part of the work. On X-Trail T31 the drum often “sticks” to the hub, so you can’t do without a hammer and WD-40. Follow the algorithm:

1. Remove the wheel and clean the brake mechanism from dirt. Use a wire brush and brake cleaner (eg Liqui Moly Bremsen-Reiniger).

2. Unscrew the guide pins drum (if any) or proceed directly to removal. If the drum does not budge, apply WD-40 to the joint with the hub and gently tap it through the wooden spacer with a hammer.

3. Remove the retaining ring from the wheel bearing (if required) and remove the drum. Be careful - there may be pressurized springs inside!

4. Release the springs and spacer bar. Use pliers to compress and rotate the springs, then remove the top and bottom braces.

5. Remove the pads, having previously disconnected the handbrake cable from the drive lever. Remember or photograph the location of all the parts - this will help during reassembly.

At this stage, problems often arise with soured springs or deformed spacer bar. If the springs do not give in, do not try to break them - it is better to treat them with penetrating lubricant and let them stand for 10-15 minutes. If the bar is bent, it will have to be replaced (part no. 40528-4M000).

What to do if the drum cannot be removed?

If the drum is stuck to the hub, try the following method:

1. Apply WD-40 or similar to the joint and wait 10-15 minutes.

2. Install two M8 bolts into the tapped holes of the drum (these are designed for removal) and tighten them evenly until the drum moves.

3. If this does not help, use a hammer with a rubber striker, tapping the drum in a circle. Do not hit one place - this may deform the part.

Installing new pads and assembling the mechanism

Before installing new pads be sure to clean all contact surfaces from rust and old grease. Apply new lubricant thin layer only on guides and friction points - excess can get on the friction material and reduce braking efficiency.

Assembly occurs in reverse order, but there are key points:

1. Install new pads into place, aligning them with the handbrake drive lever. Make sure the friction material is facing the drum.

2. Secure the spacer bar and tension springs. On X-Trail T31 The upper spring is shorter than the lower one - do not confuse them!

3. Adjust automatic gap. To do this, press the piston of the brake cylinder using a mounting blade or a special tool. Do not use pliers - they may damage the boot.

4. Install the drum and secure it. Check that it rotates freely without touching the pads.

Critically important: after installing new pads, do not adjust the handbrake immediately! First you need to “grind in” the pads: drive 10–15 km with several intense braking, then adjust the cable tension. This is due to the fact that automatic slack adjuster on X-Trail T31 triggers only after the first active use.

Adjusting the handbrake: how to avoid mistakes

Incorrect adjustment of the handbrake cable is the main reason for its ineffective operation. On X-Trail T31 The tension is adjusted under the car, next to the rear beam. Here's how to do it right:

1. Loosen the locknut on the adjusting mechanism (key on 12).

2. Tighten the adjusting nutuntil the handbrake lever begins to rise with 2-3 clicks. The optimal move is 4–6 clicks until the wheels are completely locked.

3. Check wheel locking. Raise the rear of the car on a jack and make sure that the wheels do not rotate when the handbrake is applied.

4. Tighten the locknut and check the operation of the handbrake again.

If after adjustment the handbrake still does not hold, check:

• 🔧 Rope condition — it could stretch or rust (replacement required, article number 40620-4M000).
• 🛠️ Play in the drive lever - if it dangles, the pads will not be completely pressed against the drum.
• 🚗 Gap between pads and drum - if it is too large, the automatic regulator could fail.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing rear pads with X-Trail T31. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

• 🔧 Incorrect spring installation - leads to uneven wear of the pads or their jamming. Always refer to the diagram or photograph before disassembling.
• 🛠️ Ignoring guide lubrication — without it, the pads will jam, which will lead to overheating and premature wear.
• 🚗 Tightened handbrake cable — the pads will constantly rub against the drum, increasing fuel consumption and wear of parts.
• 🔥 Using incompatible pads - for example, from Nissan Qashqai J10. They may not be suitable in size or friction material composition.

Another common problem is incomplete adhesion of the pads to the drum after replacement. This is due to the fact that the automatic slack adjuster has not worked. To fix, do the following:

1. Raise the rear of the car on a jack.
2. Tighten the handbrake 1-2 clicks and rotate the wheel forward.
3. Repeat the procedure 3-4 times - this will help the adjuster set the correct gap.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to replace the handbrake pads on the X-Trail T31 without removing the drum?

No, that's impossible. The drum must be removed to gain access to the pads, springs and spacer bar. Attempts to “do without” this lead to damage to the mechanism.

How often do you need to change the handbrake pads on the X-Trail T31?

Average interval - 40–60 thousand km, but it depends on your driving style. With frequent trips around the city or mountainous areas, the pads wear out faster. It is recommended to check their condition every 20 thousand km.

What happens if you don't change the handbrake pads?

Worn pads lose efficiency, leading to:

• Increased braking distance.
• Overheating and deformation of the drum.
• Risk of wheel jamming during emergency braking.
• Damage to the handbrake cable due to increased load.

Can I use pads from other Nissan models?

Only if they have identical article numbers or are certified by the manufacturer for X-Trail T31. For example, pads from Pathfinder R51 (article 40520-4M025) are suitable, and from Qashqai J10 - no.

Do I need to bleed the brakes after replacing the rear pads?

Generally, no - unless you damage the brake hoses or open the system. Bleeding is only required when replacing the brake cylinder or if air has entered the system.