Nissan Brake System Maintenance Qashqai - This is a critical procedure to ensure traffic safety and the correct operation of electronic stabilization systems. Many crossover owners are faced with a problem when the rear brake pads, combined with the handbrake mechanism, wear out their service life or become jammed due to corrosion. Unlike the front calipers, the design of the rear unit has its own characteristics that require attention during dismantling and installation.
Failure to promptly replace it can lead to uneven wear on the brake rotors, overheating of the wheel bearings and, in the worst case scenario, failure of the parking brake on a hill. Owners Nissan Qashqai With diesel engines or all-wheel drive, you should be especially careful, since the load on the rear axle is higher for such modifications. We will analyze in detail how to do this work yourself, what tools you will need and what nuances you should pay special attention to.
Design features of the Qashqai rear brake
Crossover rear brake assembly Nissan Qashqai the first generations (J10 and J11) is a classic combination of a disc brake and a drum mechanism inside the hub. This is the so-called “drum in a disk”. A separate drum is hidden inside the brake disc, in which the handbrake pads are located. This design allows the use of compact calipers, but complicates the replacement process.
The handbrake mechanism works through a cable rod, which, when tensioned, spreads the pads, pressing them against the inner surface of the drum. Over time, the cables stretch, and the guide pins and springs lose mobility due to dirt and moisture. It is important to understand that when replacing pads, you must also check the condition of the cables and the adjusting mechanism. If the cables are soured, the new pads will quickly wear out or will not work effectively.
Models with an electronic handbrake (EPB) have a fundamentally different drive design. In such cases, there is no mechanical adjustment, and the replacement process requires connecting a diagnostic scanner to put the caliper into service mode. For owners Qashqai with a mechanical “handbrake” the task is simplified, but requires careful physical work with tools.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to compress the caliper piston unless you have removed the handbrake drum part! This will damage the piston and rupture the boot, requiring a complete caliper replacement.
Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the guide brackets. Rust on them often causes the pads to not move away from the disc, causing constant heating. Before starting work, it is recommended to treat all threaded connections and guides with penetrating lubricant.
- Mechanical cable
- Electronic (EPB)
- I don't know
- Other
Required tools and materials
To do the job well, you will need a standard set of automotive tools, but with some specific additions. The basis of the set is sockets, ratchet and wrench. You will definitely need 12, 14, 17 and 19 millimeter sockets. To unscrew the caliper, a hexagon or 7 socket is often required, depending on the year of manufacture and revision of the brake system.
The key is to have a special tool to compress the caliper piston. Simply pressing will not work here, since the piston must not only press in, but also turn. Either a special wrench for brake calipers, a universal tool, or a homemade device made from a clamp and a piece of an old block will do. Also don't forget about a hammer, a pry bar and a metal brush.
- 🛠️ Socket set and ratchet (12, 14, 17, 19 mm)
- 🔧 Special key for rotating the caliper piston
- 🧹 Metal brush and penetrating lubricant (WD-40)
- 🧴 Copper grease for hub and guides
- 🔨 Hammer and pry bar for removing the drum
As for consumables, in addition to a set of new pads, it is highly recommended to buy new pad mounting springs. Old springs often stretch and do not provide proper pressure, which can cause the pads to vibrate or knock. Also check the condition of the guide pin boots.
☑️ Preparing to replace the handbrake pads
Step-by-step removal and replacement process
You need to start work by safely lifting the car. Install Nissan Qashqai on a level surface, apply the handbrake (if it is working) and place chocks under the front wheels. Remove the wheel and unscrew the caliper guides. Remove the caliper itself and hang it on a wire so as not to damage the brake hose. The brake caliper does not need to be removed if it does not interfere with the removal of the drum.
The most difficult stage is removing the drum. It may be tightly stuck to the hub. Never hit the hub flange or bearing with a hammer! It is best to use a puller or gently tap the drum with a hammer through a wooden spacer in a circle. If the drum does not budge, try slightly prying it with a pry bar between the disc and the drum.
After removing the drum, you will see the handbrake mechanism. Inspect the pads, springs and adjuster. Using a screwdriver or pliers, remove the upper and lower springs, as well as the spacer bar. Be careful not to deform the springs as they can be reused if they are in good condition. However, as mentioned earlier, replacing the springs is the best option.
- 🔩 Remove the springs securing the pads to the base
- 🔧 Disconnect the handbrake cable from the brake pad lever
- 📏 Remove the spacer bar and adjusting mechanism
- 🧹 Clean the entire surface from dust and rust
Install new pads in reverse order. Pay special attention to the correct connection of the cable. He should walk freely in his casing. If the cable does not move, it needs to be replaced or lubricated. After assembly, be sure to check that the pads do not touch the drum when rotating freely.
What to do if the drum cannot be removed?
If the drum is stuck, try pouring plenty of penetrating liquid over the joint and leave for 30-60 minutes. Sometimes heating the drum with a blowtorch helps (be careful not to overheat the bearing!). You can also screw in special holes for the puller bolts at the end of the drum (if the design allows) and press it out evenly.
Setting up and adjusting the mechanism
After installing new pads, the gap must be adjusted. In design Nissan Qashqai There is an automatic gap adjuster, but it may not work right away. To manually adjust, you need to find a slot in the drum (or bracket) and use a screwdriver to turn the adjusting nut on the spacer bar until the shoes begin to touch the drum and the drum stops rotating.
Then you need to release the adjustment slightly so that the drum can rotate, but with little effort. The ideal clearance is achieved when the drum is turned by hand, but a slight friction noise of the pads is heard. When you press the brake pedal multiple times, the mechanism itself will bring the gap to the desired value. It is important to check this before lowering the vehicle.
⚠️ Attention: If you over-adjust, the pads will constantly rub against the disc, which will lead to rapid wear and overheating of the brake system. If you don’t apply it enough, the handbrake will not hold the car on the slope.
Next, tighten the caliper and check the operation of the handbrake. The lever should move up 3-5 clicks. If it rises too high or too low, additional adjustment of the cable tension under the vehicle will be required. To do this, loosen the locknut on the adjusting bolt and tighten the cable.
Before final assembly, apply a thin layer of copper grease to where the pads contact the guide bars and to the threads of the adjusting nut. This will prevent the mechanism from souring in the future.
Typical errors and problems during maintenance
One of the most common mistakes is incorrectly installing the pads. It is difficult to mix them up, but you can install the spacer bar or springs incorrectly. This will cause the pad spreading mechanism to not work. Also, many people forget to lubricate the caliper guide pins, which causes misalignment and uneven wear of the pads.
Another problem is using the wrong brake pads. Cheap analogues often have incorrect geometry or low-quality friction material. As a result, they can creak, become dusty, or even fall off the metal base. For Nissan Qashqai it is better to choose original spare parts or proven brands, such as Nissin, TRW or Brembo.
| Component | Original number (example) | Analogues (brands) | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear pads | D5300-1AA0A | Nissin, TRW, Textar | Replace as a set |
| Fastening springs | D5340-1AA0A | Complete with pads | Be sure to change |
| Handbrake cable | D5330-1AA0A | Febi, SWAG | When jammed |
| Caliper guides | D5345-1AA0A | Febi, Lemforder | In case of play or rust |
Sometimes during assembly the drum does not fit into place. This may be due to the caliper piston not being fully depressed or the pads being installed too thick. Do not use force to hammer the drum - this may damage the bearing or the part itself. Recheck the position of the piston and pads.
Cost of work and selection of spare parts
The cost of replacing handbrake pads varies depending on the region and service. On average, work costs from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles per axle. Set of original pads for Nissan Qashqai will cost approximately 2500-4000 rubles. Non-original analogues can cost from 1000 rubles, but their quality can be unpredictable.
If you decide to do the work yourself, you will save on paying a specialist, but you will waste time and effort. Remember that skimping on parts can lead to more serious problems, such as replacing a wheel bearing or brake disc. Ignoring the wear of the handbrake pads can lead to a complete jamming of the wheel in motion, which is life-threatening.
Choose spare parts based on the year of manufacture of your car. Models before 2010 and after 2014 may have slight differences in mounting and dimensions. Always check the items before purchasing. It is best to buy a complete repair kit, including springs and clamps, to avoid installation problems.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions from owners
Do I need to change the brake pads on both sides at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended to change the pads on both sides of the same axle at the same time. This will ensure even braking and prevent the vehicle from pulling to the side when using the handbrake.
Is it possible to drive with a faulty handbrake?
Technically it is possible, but it is not safe. The handbrake is used not only for parking, but also as an emergency braking system. In addition, a faulty mechanism can jam the wheel.
How can you tell if the handbrake brake pads are worn out?
The main signs: the handbrake holds the car only on the last clicks of the lever, a grinding or squeaking sound is heard when moving in reverse, the car spontaneously rolls on a flat surface when the handbrake is tightened.
Do you need a special machine to replace pads on a Qashqai?
For a mechanical handbrake, a special machine is not needed; a standard set of tools and a piston wrench are enough. The electronic handbrake (EPB) may require a diagnostic scanner to enter service mode.
How long does it take to replace pads?
An experienced craftsman needs about 40-60 minutes per axle. A beginner may need 1.5-2 hours, especially if he has to deal with a stuck drum.