How to Replace '95 Nissan Maxima Rear Brakes

Changing the brakes on a 1995 Nissan Maxima is a task that can be completed by a vehicle owner, saving hundreds of dollars in repair bills. The pads can be changed after removing the wheel and brake caliper. A torque wrench is needed for this task, which can be rented at most auto-parts stores. While the task can be completed by those with minimal automotive repair experience, special care must be taken while working with brake dust. The dust should not be inhaled. Brake system cleaner should be used to clean the dust before working on brake components.
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Brake system cleaner
High-temperature grease
Torque wrench
Socket set
C-clamp
Jack
Jack stands
Anti-squeal compound
1

Raise the rear of the vehicle with a jack and support the rear of the vehicle with jack stands.
2

Remove the wheels from the rear of the vehicle.
3

Spray brake system cleaner in the brake components to eliminate any brake dust.
4

Remove the brake caliper. Detach the clip holding the parking brake and remove the parking brake from the lever. Remove the upper brake caliper mounting bolt. Pivot the brake caliper out of the way.
5

Remove the upper and lower brake pads.
6

Remove the upper and lower pad retainers.
7

Remove the shim from the old brake pads and place them on the new brake pads.
8

Remove the caliper pin from the caliper mounting bracket. Apply high-temperature grease to the pin and replace it.
9

Apply anti-squeal compound to the backs of both brake pads.
10

Install the upper and lower brake pad retainers.
11

Install the outer and inner brake pads.
12

Pivot the brake caliper into position and replace the mounting bolt, tightening the bolt to 19 ft.-lbs. with a torque wrench. The piston can be compressed if needed with a C-clamp before installation.
13

Replace the wheels and tighten the lug nuts to 80 ft.-lbs.
14

Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with the jack.

Tips & Warnings

Change both sides of brake pads at the same time. Do not change pads on one side of the vehicle without changing the other as well.

Do not breath in brake dust. Do not blow away brake dust with compressed air.