Replacing Nissan brake calipers demands precision, starting with assembling key tools like metric wrenches and a torque wrench. Secure the vehicle on flat terrain, setting the parking brake and using wheel chocks. Lift the front with a hydraulic jack and remove wheels using a lug wrench. Locate and remove the old calipers, mindful to use correct socket sizes—typically 14mm or 17mm—and cautiously detach the brake hose. Position the new calipers, ensuring bolts are torqued to specifications. Connect the brake hose, tightly threading the banjo bolt. Bleed the brake system to expel air, then test thoroughly for function and noise issues for assured performance. For further insights into each step, consider their intricate details.
Gather Necessary Tools
Before you start changing the brake calipers on a Nissan, gather the tools you'll need. You'll need metric wrenches and sockets to remove the bolts on the calipers. A torque wrench will help you tighten the bolts to the right level, which is important for safety.
A brake caliper tool or a C-clamp is useful for pressing the caliper piston back during installation. To get rid of air in the brake lines, have a brake fluid bleeding kit ready. Wear safety gloves and eye protection to keep yourself safe while working.
Use a jack and jack stands to lift and hold the car securely. Make sure to follow safety rules when using these tools. A brake cleaner and wire brush will help clean the area where the caliper sits, so it fits well.
Keep these tools organized and easy to reach. This will help make the brake caliper replacement on your Nissan go smoothly.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before changing the brake calipers on your Nissan, get your car ready. Start by parking it on flat ground for stability. Put on the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to keep it from moving. Open the hood and disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues.
Use a hydraulic jack to lift the front of your Nissan. Check your owner's manual for the right spots to place the jack. After lifting, use jack stands to keep it stable. Never rely just on the jack; it might fail.
Take off the front wheels with a lug wrench. Loosen the lug nuts a bit before lifting the car; this makes it easier to remove them later.
Once the wheels are off, you can see the brake system clearly. Look at the brake lines and parts for any wear or damage. Fix these before putting in new calipers.
Remove the Old Calipers
Find the brake caliper. It sits over the brake rotor and is held by two bolts. These calipers are key for stopping the car. Make sure the car is lifted safely and resting on jack stands.
Loosen and take out the two bolts holding the caliper. You might need a breaker bar if they are tight.
Before removing the caliper, use a line wrench to detach the brake hose. This helps avoid damaging the fittings. Have a container ready to catch any brake fluid that might leak. Don't let any air or dirt get into the brake system.
- Right tool size: A 14mm or 17mm socket usually fits Nissan calipers. Check your car's manual to be sure.
- Use oil if bolts are stuck: Penetrating oil can help loosen them.
- Hang the caliper with a wire: This keeps the brake hose from being pulled.
- Check the brake pads and rotor: See if they need changing or a closer look.
Install New Calipers
Place the new caliper on the mounting bracket. Make sure the piston is pushed back so the brake pads fit. Use a torque wrench to tighten the caliper bolts according to the manufacturer's settings. This keeps the caliper secure.
Connect the brake hose to the caliper. Ensure the copper washers are properly in place to stop leaks. Thread the banjo bolt through the hose into the caliper and tighten it to the specified torque. Proper connection is important for the brake system to work well.
Caliper Installation Steps
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Place Caliper | Set the caliper on the mounting bracket |
| Tighten Bolts | Use a torque wrench for caliper bolts |
| Connect Brake Hose | Use copper washers and thread banjo bolt |
Following these steps ensures the brakes work properly and the vehicle stays safe.
Bleed the Brake System
To keep your brakes working well and safely, you need to remove air from the brake lines after putting in new calipers. This helps the brakes work smoothly.
First, attach a clear tube to the bleeder valve on the caliper. Place the other end in a container with some brake fluid. This stops air from getting back in.
Ask someone to press the brake pedal slowly. Open the bleeder valve. Brake fluid and air will move through the tube. When the pedal is all the way down, close the valve. Then, let the pedal go back up. Do this until the fluid in the tube is clear and has no air bubbles.
Steps to follow:
- Keep the brake fluid reservoir full so no air gets in.
- Start with the caliper far from the master cylinder.
- Use the brake fluid type from the car's manual.
- Look for leaking fluid near valves or lines.
Doing this right makes your brakes respond well.
Test the Brake Performance
After you have bled the brake system and removed any air, check how the new brake calipers work to make sure they are safe and work well.
First, test the brakes while your vehicle is not moving. Press the brake pedal hard. It should feel firm and not sink or feel soft. If the pedal is firm, it means the brake fluid is reaching the calipers properly.
Next, test the brakes while driving in a safe place, like an empty parking lot. Drive at a moderate speed, then slowly press the brakes. The car should slow down evenly and not pull to one side. This shows the brakes are working the same on both sides.
Try stopping at different speeds to see if the brakes work well every time.
Listen for any strange sounds like grinding or squealing. These noises could mean the calipers are not aligned right or there is a problem with the brake pads.
If you hear anything unusual, check the installation again. Make sure bolts are tight and the pads are in place.
Also, check if the car stops in the distance mentioned in the vehicle's manual for your Nissan.
People Also Ask
How Often Should Nissan Brake Calipers Be Replaced?
Nissan brake calipers don't need to be replaced regularly. Check them during brake maintenance. Replace them if they show problems like leaking fluid, getting stuck, or uneven braking. It's important to keep them in good shape for safe driving.
What Are Signs of a Failing Brake Caliper?
If a brake caliper is going bad, you might see one brake pad wearing out more than the other, feel like the car isn't stopping well, notice the car pulling to one side, or find leaking brake fluid. Get it checked soon for safety!
Can I Replace Brake Calipers on My Nissan by Myself?
Yes, you can change the brake calipers on your Nissan yourself if you know about car repairs and have the right tools. It's important to read your car's manual and be very careful to stay safe while doing the job.
Are There Any Specific Brake Caliper Brands Recommended for Nissan Vehicles?
For Nissan cars, it's good to choose brake calipers from brands like Akebono, Brembo, and Centric. These brands make strong and reliable parts that work well with Nissan cars, keeping them safe and performing well.
Is It Necessary to Replace Brake Pads When Changing Calipers?
When you change brake calipers, it's a good idea to also change the brake pads. New calipers can change how the brakes work, so using new pads helps them work better and wear evenly, making your car safer and more efficient.