nissan sentra drum brake replacement

Oct . 12, 2024 18:52 Back to list

nissan sentra drum brake replacement

Replacing the Drum Brakes on a Nissan Sentra A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining your Nissan Sentra is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety on the road. One of the essential maintenance tasks is replacing the drum brakes, especially if you notice decreased braking performance or unusual noises. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing the drum brakes on your Nissan Sentra, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to tackle this important task.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You'll need a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a screwdriver, brake cleaner, a drum brake kit (including shoes and any hardware), and a brake adjustment tool. Having all of this ready will streamline the replacement process.

Step 1 Safety First

Park your Nissan Sentra on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels but do not remove them yet. Utilize a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands to ensure safety while you work.

Step 2 Remove the Wheels

Once the car is securely elevated, remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels. This gives you access to the drum brakes that need replacement.

Step 3 Inspect the Drum

Before removing the drum, inspect it for any signs of damage or excessive wear. If the drum appears warped or excessively scored, it may also need to be replaced or resurfaced.

Step 4 Remove the Drum Brake Assembly

nissan sentra drum brake replacement

To remove the drum, first take off any retaining screws if applicable. Then, slide the drum off the wheel hub. You may need to tap gently on the drum with a rubber mallet if it’s stuck. Once the drum is free, you will gain access to the brake shoes and hardware.

Step 5 Replace Brake Shoes

Take note of how the existing brake shoes and springs are positioned for reference. Remove the old shoes, springs, and any other hardware. Install the new brake shoes in the same manner and reattach any springs and hardware from the new kit.

Step 6 Reassemble and Adjust

Once the new brake shoes are in place, reinstall the drum. Ensure it spins freely. Adjust the brake shoes according to your vehicle's specifications, as this can vary by model.

Step 7 Reattach the Wheels

Put the wheels back on, hand-tightening the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and use the lug wrench to securely tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tension.

Final Checks

Before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new brake shoes against the drum. Take a short test drive to ensure everything is working smoothly.

By following these steps, you can effectively replace the drum brakes on your Nissan Sentra, enhancing its safety and performance on the road. Remember, if you're ever unsure about the process, consulting a professional mechanic is always a wise choice.