Rear brake system Nissan Almera Classic is a classic drum-type design, which is highly reliable subject to timely maintenance. Unlike many modern cars that use rear disc mechanisms, this budget sedan has a time-tested design that provides effective deceleration and ease of repair. Understanding how this unit works is critical for any owner who wants to independently monitor the safety of their vehicle.
Many car owners mistakenly believe that drum brakes are an outdated technology that requires frequent replacement. In fact, with proper use, the life of the pads is about Nissan Almera Classic can reach 100 thousand kilometers or more. However, the specific design creates certain nuances during maintenance, especially when it comes to adjusting the parking brake and replacing worn parts.
Design features of the drum mechanism
The rear axle is based on a continuous axle on which drum brakes with internal expansion circuit. The main working element is a cast iron brake drum, which rotates with the wheel. Inside it there are two semicircular brake pads, pressed to the working surface by special mechanisms. It is this contact that creates the friction force necessary to stop the car.
The main difference of this system is the use working cylinder pistons, which push the pads outward under the influence of hydraulic pressure. It is important to note that the design provides two pistons in one cylinder, located on opposite sides of the pads. This allows both parts of the mechanism to be evenly pressed against the drum, ensuring stable braking without distortions.
Particular attention should be paid adjustment mechanism, which automatically adjusts the gap between the pads and the drum as they wear. This function is implemented through a worm pair and an asterisk located at the bottom of the assembly. If this mechanism becomes sour or breaks, braking efficiency will drop sharply, and the brake pedal will become too soft and sinking.
- 🔩 Cast iron brake drum with a diameter of 203 mm provides sufficient heat capacity.
- 🛡️ Brake pads with high-strength friction linings.
- ⚙️ Self-adjusting clearance mechanism that prevents pedal “failure”.
⚠️ Attention: If you feel that the brake pedal has become soft or sinks to the floor, this may indicate a malfunction master cylinder or the presence of air in the system, and not just about problems with the rear assembly.
Operation of the parking brake (handbrake)
Parking system on Nissan Almera Classic integrated directly into the rear brake mechanism. The handbrake cables are connected to a special lever, which is located between the brake pads. When the lever on the dashboard is tightened, the cables are stretched, pushing the pads apart and pressing them against the drum, blocking the rotation of the wheel. This design eliminates the need for a separate mechanism for manual braking.
Problems with the handbrake often arise due to stretching of the cables or jamming of the lever inside the drum. Owners need to regularly check the tension of the cables, as over time they stretch, and the lever has to be raised by 6-8 clicks, which is a critical indicator of wear. Incorrect adjustment can cause the pads to not move completely away from the drum, causing overheating and rapid wear.
For high-quality adjustment, it is necessary to use a special tool that allows you to turn adjusting sprocket through the technological hole in the back cover. If you do not know how to do this, it is better to contact a specialist, since misalignment of the pads can lead to them jamming in motion. Remember that the correct clearance should allow the wheel to rotate freely when the handbrake is released.
- 🔧 The handbrake adjustment is carried out through the hatch in the rear of the brake shield.
- 🚗 The cables must be lubricated and have no visible damage to the braid.
- ⚠️ When tightening the handbrake, the wheel should lock for 3-5 clicks of the lever.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave your car parked for a long time with the handbrake pulled in severe frost conditions. Moisture can freeze in the mechanism and the pads will stick to the drum, which will lead to their destruction when you try to move.
- Up to 50,000 km
- 50-80,000 km
- 80-100,000 km
- More than 100,000 km
Typical faults and their diagnosis
Operation Nissan Almera Classic identifies a number of common problems associated with the rear brake system. The most common of them is jamming of the guides or pistons of the working cylinder due to the ingress of dirt and moisture. As a result, the brake pads stop returning to their original position, which causes constant heating of the drum and a burning smell after a trip.
Another common problem is worn brake drums. Over time, the inner surface becomes oval or deeply grooved, reducing braking performance. This is difficult to determine visually, since the drum is covered by a wheel, but an indirect sign is the beating of the brake pedal or vibration of the body when decelerating. It is also worth paying attention to the condition o-rings cylinders, since their destruction leads to brake fluid leakage.
Particular attention should be paid to the springs that hold the pads together. They are subject to constant thermal stress and lose their elasticity over time. A weak spring cannot pull the shoe back, which leads to its constant contact with the drum. This phenomenon is often accompanied by a characteristic creaking or grinding noise, which intensifies when reversing.
Causes of premature pad wear
Frequent off-road driving, the use of low-quality brake fluid, violation of the seal of the piston boots and the ingress of abrasive particles into the mechanism.
The process of replacing and servicing components
Replacing rear brake pads with Nissan Almera Classic - a procedure that can be performed independently with a basic set of tools. First you need to remove the wheel and unscrew the guide pins holding the brake shield. After this, the drum is removed, allowing access to the internal components.
Before installing new parts, you must thoroughly clean all surfaces from dust and dirt using a wire brush. Pay special attention adjusting sprocket: It should rotate freely and not have any burrs. You can lubricate only those places where it is specified by the factory (axles of levers, guides), but in no case the friction linings of the pads. If oil gets on the linings it will cause immediate wear and loss of braking properties.
Assembly is carried out in the reverse order, but with the obligatory check of the operation of the handbrake mechanism. After installing new pads, you must press the brake pedal several times so that the cylinder pistons take their working position. It is also recommended to check the brake fluid level in the reservoir, since when the pads wear out, the level may rise, and when they are replaced, it may drop.
☑️ Preparing to replace pads
Selection of spare parts and consumables
The auto parts market offers a huge selection of options for Nissan Almera Classic, from original components to budget analogues. Original brake pads and drums are distinguished by high quality friction material and precise geometry, which ensures long service life. However, their cost can be quite high, especially if there are a large number of counterfeits under the Nissan brand.
An alternative can be proven brands such as Tokico, NTN or TRW, who are often suppliers to the conveyor belt. When choosing analogues, it is important to pay attention to the quality certificate and reviews of other owners. Cheap Chinese spare parts often have low heat transfer and quickly break down, which can lead to an emergency on the road.
It is also worth considering that for a high-quality replacement it is often necessary to replace not only the pads, but also working cylinders or springs. An integrated approach to repairs will allow you to avoid repeated visits to the service station in the next month. Do not skimp on the quality of materials, as the braking system directly affects the safety of you and your passengers.
| Part type | Original number (example) | Recommended analogues | Average service life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake pads | 41060-AX300 | TRW, Ferodo, KYB | 60-80 thousand km |
| Brake drum | 42401-AX300 | NTN, ATE, Brembo | 100-120 thousand km |
| Working cylinder | 44600-AX300 | TRW, LPR, ATE | If necessary |
| Spring kit | 44620-AX300 | Febi, SWAG, Mapco | When replacing pads |
⚠️ Attention: If you notice any brake fluid leaking on the inside of the wheel or drum, replace it immediately slave cylinder. Operation with a faulty cylinder can lead to complete brake failure on one of the axles.
Before purchasing new pads, be sure to check the condition of the drum working surface. If there are deep risks on it, the new pads will quickly become unusable, as they will not be able to fit tightly to the surface.
Technical nuances and expert recommendations
When servicing the rear axle Nissan Almera Classic It is important to remember the specifics of the ABS system (if installed). The rear wheel speed sensors can become contaminated with metal dust from brake wear. This may cause an error message on the instrument panel and disable the anti-lock braking system. Regular cleaning of sensors and checking their wiring will help avoid false alarms.
Another important aspect is the correct use of brake fluid. In drum mechanisms, the heating temperature may be lower than in disk ones, but air humidity still penetrates inside through the ventilation holes. For this reason, it is recommended to change the brake fluid every two years, regardless of mileage. Using expired fluid can lead to internal corrosion of the cylinder pistons.
For those who often drive on dirt roads, it is recommended to install additional boots on the working cylinders. This simple precaution will significantly extend the life of the mechanism by preventing abrasive particles from getting on the guides and pistons. It is also worth checking the condition of the front axle caliper, as an imbalance of braking forces can overload the rear axle.
Regular checking and cleaning of the rear brake mechanisms, as well as timely replacement of worn elements, are the key to safe operation of the Nissan Almera Classic in any road conditions.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Why do rear brakes squeak when you press the pedal?
Creaking can be caused by several reasons: worn brake pads, dirt between the pad and the drum, lack of lubrication on the guides or springs. The cause may also be deformation of the drum itself. It is recommended to remove the mechanism, clean it and check the condition of all parts.
How often should the handbrake be adjusted?
The handbrake should be adjusted as needed, usually when the cables are stretched. On average, this is required every 30-40 thousand kilometers. If the lever rises more than 6-8 clicks, adjustment must be made immediately.
Is it possible to change only the front pads if the rear ones are still in good condition?
Yes, this is possible, since front and rear brakes wear out at different rates. However, it is important to monitor the condition of the entire system as a whole. If your rear pads are worn unevenly, this may indicate a mechanical problem that needs attention.
What should I do if the drum gets hot after replacing the pads?
Heating of the drum after replacing the pads often indicates that the pads are not completely clear of the surface. This may be caused by a stuck cylinder piston, improperly installed springs, or lack of lubrication on the guides. It is necessary to remove the mechanism and check the operation of all moving parts.
How to check drum wear without removing it?
Without removing the drum, it is almost impossible to visually assess its wear. However, you can try to measure its outer diameter with a caliper if you have access to the edges, or go to a service station where they use a special gauge. The most accurate method is a visual inspection after removing the wheel.