Rear brake pads for Nissan Almera Classic: a complete selection and replacement guide

Nissan Almera Classic (also known as Nissan Sunny B10 or N16 depending on the market) is one of the most popular sedans in the budget segment, valued for its reliability and ease of maintenance. However, even such time-tested models have components that require regular attention. Rear brake pads - just the element that many owners forget to check until they hear a squeak or feel worse braking.

Unlike the front pads, the rear ones are Almera Classic wear out more slowly, but their condition directly affects braking stability, especially in emergency situations or on wet roads. In this article we will look at how choose quality padswhen to change them, which brands are trustworthy, and how to replace them yourself - taking into account the nuances of the design Nissan Almera Classic (including versions with ABS and without it).

When to change the rear brake pads on a Nissan Almera Classic

The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the pads every 20–30 thousand km, but their actual service life depends on driving style, the quality of the pads themselves and operating conditions. Here are the key signs that it's time to think about replacement:

• 🚨 Creaking or whistling when braking - the first signal about critical wear of the friction layer.
• 🔥 Increased braking distance, especially at high speeds or when pressing the pedal to the floor.
• 🛑 Vibration or beat in the brake pedal - may indicate disc deformation or uneven pad wear.
• 🔧 Visual wear: if the thickness of the friction layer is less 2–3 mm, the pads must be replaced.

On Almera Classic with rear drum brakes (versions before 2006) the wear of the pads is less noticeable, since they are hidden. Here focus on mileage (usually 60–80 thousand km) or on handbrake efficiency - if it stops holding the car on a slope, the pads are worn out.

⚠️ Attention! On models with ABS Ignoring rear pad wear can lead to system malfunctions, as sensors detect uneven braking of the wheels.

If you notice metal shavings on the wheel rim or hear thud when braking, this means that the friction layer has worn down to the base, and the pads are already scratching the brake disc or drum. In this case, not only will the pads need to be replaced, but also resurfacing or replacing brake discs.

Which rear pads are suitable for Nissan Almera Classic

The choice of pads depends on year of manufacture And type of brake system your Almera Classic:

• 📅 1995–2000 (body B10) - most often equipped drum brakes behind. Articles of original pads: 40520-4M000 or 40520-4M001.
• 📅 2000–2006 (body N16) - could be installed as drums, so disc brakes (depending on the configuration). Pads with article number are suitable for rear disc brakes 40520-4M200.

When choosing analogues, focus on proven brands. Below is a table with popular options and their features:

Brand	Article	Type	Features	Average price, rub.
Nissan (original)	40520-4M000	Drums	High quality, minimal disc wear	2 500–3 200
Akebono	ACT907A	Disk	Low noise level, suitable for aggressive driving style	1 800–2 300
Ferodo	FDB1696	Drums	Resistant to overheating, long service life	1 500–2 000
TRW	GDB1645	Disk	Optimal price/quality ratio, suitable for urban use	1 600–2 100
Bosch	0 986 494 219	Disk	Low dust level, good braking dynamics	2 000–2 500

When purchasing, pay attention to quality certificates (For example, ECE R90) and avoid cheap off-brand pads - they can damage brake discs and worse braking when heated.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing rear pads on a Nissan Almera Classic

Replacing rear pads with Almera Classic varies depending on the type of brake. Let's consider both options.

1. Replacing drum pads (for models before 2000)

Before starting work, prepare:

Jack and stops|10 and 12 mm wrench|Pliers|Hammer (rubber or regular)|Grease for guides (e.g. Slipkote)|New pads and springs (if necessary)|WD-40 or equivalent-->

Step 1. Raise the rear of the car with a jack and remove the wheel. Loosen the handbrake cable (you can do this from inside the car by unscrewing the tensioner nut under the tunnel casing).

Step 2. Remove the brake drum. If it gets stuck, gently tap the edge with a hammer or use a puller. On Almera Classic The drum may be tight due to corrosion - do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the hub.

Step 3. Inspect the condition return springs, spacer strip And handbrake cable. If the springs have lost their elasticity or there are burrs on the cable, replace them.

Step 4. Remove the old pads by disconnecting the springs and spacer bar. Install new pads in reverse order, after applying lubricant at the points of contact with the support shield.

Step 5. Adjust the gap between the pads and the drum using eccentric mechanism (located on the support board). After installing the wheel, press the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are in place.

⚠️ Attention! After replacing the drum pads, be sure to adjust the handbrake. To do this, lift the lever 2-3 clicks and check that the rear wheels are locked, but rotate without jamming when the lever is lowered.

2. Replacing disc pads (for models after 2000)

Step 1. Raise the car, remove the wheel and unscrew the caliper guides (12 or 14 mm wrench). Hang the caliper on a wire to avoid damaging the brake hose.

Step 2. Remove the old pads. Clean the caliper and brake disc from dirt and rust. Check status guide anthers - if they are torn, replace them.

Step 3. Install new pads after applying copper grease on their back side (but not on the friction layer!). Press the caliper piston back using sliding pliers or a special tool.

Step 4. Reassemble everything in reverse order. After replacing, press the brake pedal several times to adjust the piston.

Typical mistakes when replacing rear pads

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to early pad wear or brake system malfunctions. Here are the most common:

• 🔧 Unlubricated caliper guides - leads to pad wedging and uneven wear.
• 🚗 Ignoring the condition of the brake discs - if the disc has deep grooves or is less than 8–9 mm, it needs to be sharpened or replaced.
• 🔩 Incorrect installation of springs on drum shoes - may cause jamming or spontaneous braking.
• 🛠️ No brake bleeding after replacement - air in the system reduces braking efficiency.

Another common problem is overstretched handbrake cable. If, after replacing the pads, the wheels rotate with force, check the cable tension and, if necessary, loosen it.

What happens if you don't replace worn pads on time?

If the friction layer of the pads is worn down to metal, this will lead to:

1. Damage to the brake disc or drum — replacing them will cost 3–5 times more than pads.

2. Brake fluid leak due to overheating of the caliper (on disc brakes).

3. Handbrake failure — the pads will not be able to block the wheels even with full cable tension.

4. Losing control of the car during emergency braking, especially on wet roads.

How to extend the life of your rear pads

Average resource of rear pads Almera Classic — 40–60 thousand km, but with proper operation this figure can be increased by 20–30%. Here are some tips:

• 🚦 Avoid hard braking — a smooth reduction in speed reduces the load on the pads.
• 🔄 Check the brake fluid level regularly - its low level or contamination accelerates wear.
• 🌡️ Watch out for overheating brakes - After a long descent or aggressive driving, allow the pads to cool.
• 🔧 Lubricate the caliper guides every 10–15 thousand km with special lubricant (for example, Slipkote 220-R).

On models with drum brakes especially important use the handbrake regularly — this prevents the pads from “sticking” to the drum due to corrosion.

Cost of replacing rear pads at a service center vs doing it yourself

The cost of replacing brake pads at a car service center depends on the region and type of brake system. Below are approximate prices for Almera Classic:

Type of work	Drum brakes	Disc brakes
Cost of pads (set)	1,200–2,500 rub.	1,500–3,000 rub.
Cost of work in the service	800–1,500 rub.	1,000–2,000 rub.
Additional costs (lubricant, cleaner)	200–500 rub.	300–600 rub.
Total	2,200–4,500 rub.	RUB 2,800–5,600

Replacing it yourself will cost less, but will require time and tools. If you have never worked with the brake system, it is better to entrust it to professionals - mistakes when replacing pads can lead to an accident.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about rear brake pads Nissan Almera Classic

Is it possible to put front pads on rear brakes?

No, that's impossible. Rear and front pads on Almera Classic They have different shapes, friction material compositions and fastenings. Additionally, rear pads are often integrated with the handbrake mechanism, making them incompatible with the front axle.

How often should I check my rear pads if I don't drive much?

Even with low mileage, the pads can fail due to corrosion (especially on drum brakes) or loss of elasticity of rubber elements. It is recommended to inspect them once every 1–2 years, even if the mileage is less than 10 thousand km.

Which is better: drum or disc brakes on the Almera Classic?

Disc brakes dissipate heat more efficiently and are less likely to seize, but they are more expensive to maintain. Drum brakes are cheaper and easier to repair, but perform worse under heavy braking. If your Almera Classic equipped with drums, and you want to improve the brakes - consider the option modernization to disk ones (replacement of hubs and calipers will be required).

Why do my brakes squeak after replacing the pads?

Creaking can occur for several reasons:

• 🔹 The new pads have not yet gotten used to it (usually after 100–200 km).
• 🔹 Low-quality friction material (especially cheap analogues).
• 🔹 Lack of lubrication on the back of the pads or guides.
• 🔹 Dirt or sand getting between the pad and the disc.

If the squeak does not disappear, check the quality of the installation or replace the pads with a more reliable brand.

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

Not required, but recommended. Brake fluid on Almera Classic must be replaced every 2 years or 40 thousand km, since it is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture) and loses its properties. If the liquid is darker than usual or flakes are visible in it, it definitely needs to be replaced.