How to Maintain Your Nissan Brake Pads & Rotors

INTRODUCTION

Maintaining your brake pads and brake rotors is an easy way to support the performance of your Nissan. In fact, there are few systems more important than your Nissan's brakes.

Beyond stopping your vehicle, they play an essential part in your suspension system and help to keep your tires planted where they belong ‐ on the road. If you're looking for ways to maintain this vital system, you're in luck. Learn when and how to replace brake rotors and brake pads with this guide.

WHAT KIND OF BRAKE PADS AND BRAKE ROTORS ARE BEST FOR MY NISSAN?

If your vehicle is less than 20 years old, you likely have disc brakes on all four wheels of your Nissan. Disc brake systems consist of a brake caliper and a brake rotor. While the caliper holds the pads in place, the brake pads compress against the rotor to generate stopping friction.

Depending on mileage and when your brake system was last serviced, you may need to replace one or both of these components during installation. When looking for the best brake pads and rotors, your local Nissan dealer has the genuine OEM components you need to get the job done right the first time.

WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY BRAKE PADS AND BRAKE ROTORS?

Although your Nissan's braking system provides reliable performance for thousands of miles, the lifespan of these components largely depends on where and how you drive your vehicle. If you're unsure about the condition of your Nissan's brakes, here are a few symptoms to look out for that indicate it's time for a replacement.

• Your Nissan pulls to one side when braking.
• Excessive wear on several components can cause your Nissan to pull to one side while braking, including parts from both the braking and suspension assemblies. While this could just indicate uneven brake pad wear, we recommend that you have a certified technician at your local Nissan dealer inspect your vehicle to determine the cause.
• You hear squealing or grinding noises when you apply your brakes.
• Squeaky, squealing, and grinding brakes are a clear indication that your Nissan's brake system requires servicing. Abnormal noises like these generally indicate that your pads have worn below their recommended level and have likely begun damaging the rotors. When you hear these sounds, we recommend having both your brake pads and rotors replaced.
• Your Nissan is taking longer to stop than usual.
• If braking takes substantially longer than it used to, your brake system components are likely worn. Replacing your brake pads and rotors with Genuine Nissan Brake Pads and Brake Rotors will help restore factory-grade performance to your vehicle. And an inspection by a certified technician at your local Nissan dealer can also help determine if another service is needed.

HOW TO REPLACE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS

A Nissan DIY brake rotor replacement is relatively simple with the right tools and parts. Genuine Nissan Parts will offer you a factory-grade fit to get the job done correctly the first time. If you want to replace your Nissan's brake pads and brake rotors as a part of your general maintenance schedule, there are just a few parts and tools you'll need for the job.

TOOLS YOU MAY NEED

• Jack and Jack Stand
• Socket Set
• Breaker Bar
• Wire Brush
• Brake Fluid
• Brake Cleaner
• C-Clamp or Caliper Spreading Tool
• Bungee Cord or Heavy Wire
• Nissan Brake Pads
• Nissan Brake Rotors
• Nissan Disc Brake Anti-Rattle Clip Set

NISSAN DIY BRAKE PAD AND ROTOR REPLACEMENT STEPS

Always consult your owner's manual before engaging in any DIY car repair. If you're not confident in your automotive skills, you can always purchase Nissan brake parts online and then visit the professionals at your nearest authorized Nissan service center.

• Ensure your Nissan is parked on a flat, smooth surface.
• Loosen each lug nut.
• Lift one side of the vehicle with a floor jack.
• Position your jack stand beneath the engine cradle.
• Remove the loosened lug nuts and wheel.
• Remove the caliper bolts.
• Remove the brake caliper, and suspend it from the vehicle (never near the brake line).
• Remove the worn brake pads.
• Remove the rotor.
• Clean any rust, oil, or debris from the hub surface and components with the brake cleaner and wire brush.
• Install the new brake rotor.
• Install new anti-rattle clips.
• Compress caliper piston (using c-clamps if needed).
• Install new brake pads.
• Reinstall the caliper bolts.
• Replace all other components (i.e., wheels, lug nuts, etc.).
• Lower the vehicle.
• Repeat the above steps on each side.
• Remove the jack stand.
• Top off the brake fluid if needed.
• Gently pump your brakes from inside the vehicle until firm.
• Test drive your Nissan in a safe location.

Contact your local Nissan dealer if you have any questions about servicing your Nissan's brakes or are interested in scheduling an appointment to have it done by an authorized Nissan technician. No matter which route you take, be sure to choose genuine OEM Nissan brake pads, brake rotors, and brake parts to help ensure great performance from your vehicle for miles to come.