How to Replace Front Brakes 07-13 Nissan Altima
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Nissan Altima
Replace front brake pads and rotors on a 2007–2013 Nissan Altima, inspect the caliper slides, and bleed the brakes if the hydraulic circuit is opened.
Tools you will need
- Socket Extensions
- Torque Wrench
- 14mm Socket
- Hammer
- Pry Bar
- Jack Stands
- Brake Parts Cleaner
- Safety Glasses
- 21mm Socket
- Gloves
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Anti-Seize Grease
- Brake Caliper Compressor Tool. Single Piston. Screw Style.
- Brake Grease
- 10mm Socket
- Ratchet
- Wire Brush
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 22mm Socket
Parts and supplies
- Front brake pads
- Front brake rotors
Steps
Raise the vehicle and inspect the brakes
Loosen the wheel nuts, raise and support the front securely, then remove the wheel. Check pad thickness and rotor condition before deciding which components need replacement.
Remove the caliper and rotor
Disconnect the brake-hose retainer and remove the caliper slide bolts. Support the caliper, then unbolt the bracket and slide the rotor off the hub.
Prepare the hub and sliding hardware
Brush rust from the hub and clean the bracket clips and slides. Apply brake lubricant only to specified contact points, keeping grease off the rotor and pad friction surfaces.
Install the rotor, pads, and caliper
Fit the clean replacement rotor and secure the bracket. Install the pads, retract the caliper piston with the correct tool, and reinstall the caliper and hose retainer using specified torque values.
Bleed and test the brakes
If the bleeder or hydraulic line was opened, bleed the system according to the vehicle procedure and keep the reservoir filled with specified fluid. Refit the wheel, torque the nuts, and confirm a firm pedal.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.