Replacing front brake pads on Nissan Terrano 3: a complete guide with nuances

Nissan Terrano 3 is a popular crossover that is valued for its reliability and unpretentiousness. But even the most durable cars have consumables that require regular replacement. Brake pads are a key safety element, and their wear directly affects braking performance. In this article we will look at how to replace it yourself. front brake pads on Terrano 3 (restyling and pre-restyling), without resorting to the services of a service station. You will learn what tools you will need, how to choose quality spare parts and avoid common mistakes.

The procedure does not require professional skills, but has its own nuances. For example, on Terrano 3 with motor 2.0 MR20DD or 1.6 HR16DE The replacement algorithm is identical, but the sizes of the pads may differ depending on the year of manufacture. We will look at each stage in detail: from preparation to bleeding the brakes. And if you have never repaired the brake system, don’t worry: step-by-step photos and videos (links at the end of the article) will help you figure it out.

When is it time to change brake pads on Nissan Terrano 3?

The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the pads every 15–20 thousand km, but their actual service life depends on driving style and operating conditions. Here are the key signs that it's time to think about replacement:

• 🔊 Creaking or whistling when braking, this is a wear indicator built into the pads. On Terrano 3 it is triggered when the thickness of the friction layer remains 2–3 mm.
• 🛑 Increased braking distance or a “soft” pedal is a signal that the pads have worn down to metal and are damaging the brake disc.
• 🔧 Vibration on the steering wheel when braking - may indicate uneven wear of the pads or deformation of the discs.
• 📏 Visual wear: if you can see through the wheel spokes that the pad is thinner 5 mm, it's time to change it.

On Nissan Terrano 3 The front pads wear out faster than the rear ones due to the greater load. On average they are enough for 30–50 thousand km, but with aggressive driving or frequent trips along mountain serpentines, the resource is reduced to 20 thousand km. Do not wait until the pads wear down to metal - this can lead to replacing brake discs (the cost of which is 3–4 times higher) and the risk of accidents.

⚠️ Attention: If cracks or chips appear on the pads, they must be replaced immediately - even if the thickness of the friction layer is still acceptable. Such defects reduce braking efficiency on wet roads.

Which pads to choose for Nissan Terrano 3: original vs analogues

Original pads from Nissan have an article number 40520-4M000 (for versions with motor 2.0) and 40520-BM400 (for 1.6). Their average price is 3,500–4,500 rub. per set per axle. But many owners choose analogues that are not inferior in quality, but are 30–50% cheaper. The table below shows the tested options:

Brand	Article	Price (set, rub.)	Features
Nissan (original)	40520-4M000	3 800–4 200	Optimal balance of wear resistance and braking properties. Suitable for all modifications Terrano 3.
Brembo	P 24 056	2 800–3 200	Soft pads with low noise level. Good for city use.
Ferodo	FDB1484	2 500–2 900	Moderate disc wear, suitable for an active driving style.
TRW	GDB1484	2 700–3 100	High temperature resistance, recommended for traveling with a trailer.
Bosch	0 986 494 219	3 000–3 400	Low dust level, long service life. Optimal for mixed driving cycles.

When choosing analogues, pay attention to friction material composition:

• 🔹 Semi-metallic pads (up to 65% metal) are durable, but noisy and wear out discs faster.
• 🔹 Ceramic (less than 10% metal) are quieter and less dusty, but more expensive and less effective at low temperatures.
• 🔹 Organic (resin-based) are soft and silent, but wear out faster than others.

For Nissan Terrano 3 optimal choice - ceramic or semi-metallic pads from Brembo or Ferodo. They provide good braking in all conditions and do not require frequent replacement. But cheap pads from unknown brands (for example, NoName for 1,200 rubles) can lead to overheating of brakes and deformation of discs after 10 thousand km.

Tools and materials for replacing pads

To replace the pads with Terrano 3, you don’t need a professional tool - a standard set is enough. Here's what you'll need:

• 🔧 Jack And supports (or stands for the body).
• 🔩 Balloon wrench for removing wheels.
• 🔧 Socket heads on 14 mm And 17 mm (for caliper guides).
• 🔧 open-end wrench on 12 mm (for the caliper mounting bolt).
• 🔧 Hammer (for gentle tapping on the caliper).
• 🔧 Flat blade screwdriver (for spreading the pads).
• 🧴 WD-40 or penetrating lubricant (for rusty bolts).
• 🧼 DOT-4 brake fluid (in case of pumping).
• 🧤 Gloves (Brake dust is harmful to the skin).
• 📦 New pads (set per axle).

Also useful metal brush for cleaning the caliper and copper grease for guides. If you plan to replace the brake discs, you will also need 19 mm socket wrench for their dismantling.

⚠️ Attention: Never use to lubricate caliper guides. graphite grease or Litol - they cannot withstand high temperatures and can jam the mechanism. Only specialized compounds, for example, TRW PFG110 or Slipkote 220-R DBC.

Jack up the car and remove the wheel|

Clean the caliper and guides from dirt with a brush|

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir (if necessary, pump out some with a syringe)|

Prepare new pads and grease for the guides -->

Step-by-step instructions for replacing front pads

The procedure takes approximately 1–1.5 hours on both sides. If this is your first time, allow more time. Follow the algorithm:

1. Preparing and removing the wheel

Place the car on a flat surface, turn on first gear (or Parking for automatic transmission) and place chocks under the rear wheels. Loosen the wheel bolts while the car is on the ground, then jack it up and remove the wheel.

2. Removing the caliper

Caliper on Terrano 3 secured with two bolts: one from below (17 mm), another on top (14 mm). Unscrew them with a socket wrench. If the bolts are stuck, treat them WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes. After removing the bolts, carefully lift the caliper up and secure it with wire or rope so that it does not hang on the brake hose.

3. Replacing pads

Remove the old pads from the caliper. Please note spring clips — they need to be moved to new pads. Before installing new parts, clean the seats from rust and dust. Pads are installed guide plate inward (to the caliper piston).

4. Recessing the caliper piston

In order for the caliper to sit on the new, thicker pads, you need to recess the piston. To do this:

1. Remove the brake fluid reservoir cap.
2. Insert a screwdriver between the old pad and the piston and gently press it in.
3. Monitor the liquid level in the tank - if it rises, pump out some with a syringe.

On Terrano 3 with ESP or ABS The piston may sink tightly - this is normal. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the boot.

5. Assembly and testing

Place the caliper in place, tighten the bolts (tightening torque - 30–35 Nm) and install the wheel. Repeat the procedure on the second side. After replacement, be sure to:

• 🔧 Pump the brakes (press the pedal 5-6 times until resistance appears).
• 🚗 Test braking at low speed (5–10 km/h).
• 🔍 Check for brake fluid leaks.

Common mistakes when replacing pads and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to squeaking, uneven brake wear, or even brake failure. Here are the most common:

• 🚫 Unlubricated guides - lead to caliper wedging and uneven pad wear. Always apply special lubricant on the guides.
• 🚫 Overtightened caliper bolts - can deform the threads or the caliper itself. Use a torque wrench (tightening torque - 30–35 Nm).
• 🚫 Forgot to recess the piston — the caliper will not fit on the new pads, and the wheel will be blocked. Check the piston stroke before assembly.
• 🚫 Installing the pads in reverse - the guide plate must look inside (to the piston). Mixed up pads will squeak and wear out quickly.
• 🚫 Ignoring anthers - if the piston boot or guides are torn, the caliper will quickly fail. When replacing pads, always check their integrity.

Another common problem is squeak after replacement. It may occur due to:

• 🔹 Cheap pads with hard friction material.
• 🔹 Lack of anti-squeak plates (come complete with original pads).
• 🔹 Dirt gets between the pad and the caliper.

If the squeak does not go away after 500 km, try applying anti-squeak paste (For example, ATE Plastilube) to the back of the pads. But don't use it on a work surface!

What should I do if the brake pedal becomes soft after replacing the pads?

This is a sign of air getting into the system. It is necessary to bleed the brakes, starting with the wheel furthest from the master cylinder (at Terrano 3 order: right rear → left rear → right front → left front). To bleed, you will need an assistant or a special tool to simultaneously press the pedal and open the fitting.

Do I need to change brake discs and pads?

On Nissan Terrano 3 brake discs last longer than pads - on average 80–120 thousand km. But their condition directly affects braking efficiency. Replacing disks should be considered if:

• 📏 Disc thickness is smaller 22 mm (rated for front discs - 26 mm).
• 🌀 There are deep grooves on the surface (more 0.5 mm).
• 🔄 The disc has uneven wear (“wave”), which causes the steering wheel to hit when braking.
• 🔥 A blue tint appeared along the edge of the disk - a sign of overheating.

If the discs are still normal, but have small grooves on them, they can be turned on a lathe. It will cost less than replacement (approx. 1,500 rub. for both discs). However, the groove reduces the thickness of the disk, so it can be done no more 2–3 times for the entire service life.

For Terrano 3 fit original wheels Nissan with article number 40500-4M000 (for motor 2.0) or analogues from Brembo (09.9666.11), TRW (DF4530). Average price per disc - 4,000–5,500 rub..

⚠️ Attention: If you decide to replace the discs, be sure to change the pads - the old ones will not fully grind into the new surface. Also, after replacing the disks, the first 100–200 km Avoid sudden braking to avoid deforming them.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing pads on Nissan Terrano 3

Is it possible to replace the pads on only one wheel?

No, the pads are always changed in pairs on the same axis (left and right wheel). Otherwise, the braking force will be distributed unevenly, which will lead to the car pulling to the side when braking.

How much does it cost to replace pads at a service center?

At the official dealer Nissan the work will cost 2,500–3,500 rub. (excluding the cost of the pads). In independent services the price is lower - 1,500–2,000 rub.. Replacing it yourself can save you up to 70% from this amount.

How often should you check your brake pads?

The manufacturer recommends inspecting the pads every 15 thousand km or once a year. But if you often drive on mountain roads or with a trailer, it is better to reduce the interval to 10 thousand km. Also check the pads at every seasonal maintenance.

Is it possible to drive if the brake pads squeak?

Creaking does not always mean critical wear - sometimes it is the work of the indicator. But if the sound is accompanied by vibration or an increase in braking distance, the pads need to be replaced immediately. Driving with completely worn out pads destroys the brake discs and increases the risk of an accident.

Which pads are better - original or Brembo?

Original pads Nissan provide predictable braking and long service life, but are more expensive. Brembo often not inferior in quality, especially in the line Premium. If your budget is limited, choose Ferodo or TRW - they offer the best price/quality ratio.