You can't overstate the importance of your braking system. That's why it's vital to remember that if you experience any of the signs below, you should have your brakes inspected and serviced regularly by our factory-trained technicians at Coggin Nissan on Atlantic, in Florida.
Your brake warning light is on
Squealing or grinding noises when you apply the brakes
Your vehicle pulls to the side when braking
It takes a longer time to stop the vehicle than normal
Do You Know Your Brakes?
Because brakes are so important, it's a good idea to understand the different moving parts that make up your brake system. When you press your brake pedal, the brake pads create friction; in turn, the brake rotor disperses heat throughout the vehicle to keep the brakes themselves from overheating. Both are essential to the proper functioning of your braking system and might need replacing at different times.
Brake pads are equipped with wear indicators that produce a squeaking noise when the brakes are almost worn out. The noise may be present with or without the brake pedal applied, but when noise is heard from the wear indicator, the brake pads should be replaced as soon as possible.
Wear indicators are set to create noise when there is around 2 mm of brake pad friction material thickness remaining. In the case of assessing pad wear through inspection, pads should be replaced at or before 2 mm thickness is reached.
Brake rotors are marked with a “minimum thickness” on the casting (usually 2 mm to 3 mm less than the new rotor thickness). Rotors should be replaced before they reach this minimum thickness and should not be “turned” (machine refinished) below this.
You do not have to replace your rotors at the same time as your brake pads, but it is recommended. Your rate of rotor replacement will vary depending on your driving style and vehicle, but is often similar to that of your brake pads. So if your brake pads are ready to be replaced, your rotors likely are as well.
Because every Nissan vehicle is unique, we'd recommend scheduling an appointment with us at Coggin Nissan on Atlantic to have your brake rotors thoroughly inspected by one of our factory-trained experts.
Brake-pedal pulsation and other conditions such as steering-wheel shaking while braking are caused by thickness variation in the brake rotor. When a thicker spot of the rotor rotates through the caliper, it pushes back against brake fluid, which can be felt at the brake pedal. The brake fluid and pedal then relax again as the thick spot exits the caliper. This process produces pedal pulsation and “brake torque variation,” which can shake the steering wheel and seats.
Brake pulsation is not caused by warping of the disc. However, distortion of the disc due to excessive temperatures or improper installation and torqueing of the wheels can lead to brake rotor thickness variation over time. Brake-pedal pulsation is corrected by turning and/or replacing the brake rotors to eliminate the thickness variation.
Typically the cost for parts will assortment from $100-$200 per axle and labor can cost anywhere between $80 - $100. Since your Nissan brake pads wear down at the like rate per axle, it is acceptable to have your front or rear brake pads replaced at the same time.
Consult your service advisor as prices can change quite constantly depending on parts availability. Most Nissan franchise service centers will run brake specials each month and can save you a lot of money on front brake pad installation.
Keep in mind wear and tear on all brake components depends heavily on your driving habits. Unlike front brake pads, most rear brake pads wear down faster due to the brake mechanics of rear wheel commute cars. You can opt to get your brakes inspected during every visit to your mechanic, but you should also consult your Nissan maintenance schedule for details on when inspections and rear brake pad replacement is recommended.
Similarly with front brake pads, your Nissan rear brake pads will typically wear down at the same rate on both the left and right side of your car.
It's necessary to use Nissan imaginative manufactured parts on your vehicle. Genuine Nissan brake pads are designed exactly for your Nissan and are built on the highest standards just like the imaginative brake pads that were installed on your car when leaving the factory.
Genuine parts help provide maximum safety and durability even more so than divergent expensive aftermarket parts that were designed to fit multiple types of vehicles. Call Coggin Nissan on Atlantic today to learn more or schedule service online.
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