How to Replace Rear Brakes 02-18 Nissan Altima

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 75 min · Nissan Altima

Replace the rear brake pads and rotors on a 2002–2018 Nissan Altima, verify the parking brake is released, and confirm pedal pressure before driving.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove a wheel

   Release the parking brake before starting. Loosen the wheel nuts, raise and support the rear of the vehicle on stands, then remove the wheel to expose the brake assembly.

2. Remove the caliper and bracket

   Retract the caliper slightly, remove its slide fasteners, and swing it away from the pads. Support it so the hose is not strained, then remove the bracket and pads.

3. Remove the old rotor

   Confirm the parking brake is fully released. Apply penetrant to a rusted rotor and tap around its hat with a dead-blow hammer; retract the parking-brake adjuster if the shoes hold it.

4. Install and clean the replacement rotor

   Slide the replacement rotor onto the hub and clean its friction surfaces with brake cleaner. Adjust the parking-brake shoes so the rotor turns with slight, even drag.

5. Install pads and caliper

   Clean the bracket and pad clips, then retract the piston with an old pad and clamp. Fit the pads with a light film of brake lubricant on their contact ears, reinstall the caliper, and tighten fasteners to specification.

6. Reinstall the wheel and verify braking

   Reinstall the wheel and tighten the nuts to the vehicle's specification. Pump the brake pedal until firm, check the parking brake, and test the brakes slowly in a clear area.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.