DIY Brake Shim Installation: Nissan & Infiniti Sport

Maintaining your vehicle's braking system is paramount for safety and driving confidence. For owners of Nissan and Infiniti models equipped with sport brakes, understanding the intricacies of brake pad and shim replacement is a valuable skill. This guide will walk you through the process, focusing specifically on the crucial steps of installing brake shims, ensuring your high-performance braking system continues to operate efficiently and quietly. Proper installation isn't just about fitting new parts; it's about meticulous attention to detail that can significantly impact your vehicle's stopping power and overall driving experience.

Understanding Your Sport Brake System

Nissan and Infiniti sport brake systems are designed for enhanced performance, offering superior stopping power and heat dissipation compared to standard setups. This often involves larger calipers and rotors, along with multi-piston configurations. For instance, the front calipers on these models typically feature two pistons on each side, totalling four pistons per caliper, while rear calipers usually have one piston per side. This design requires a specific approach to maintenance, particularly when replacing brake pads and installing brake shims, which are vital for mitigating noise and promoting smoother operation.

Safety First: Preparing for the Job

Before you begin any work on your vehicle, safety must be your top priority. Ensure you are working on a level, stable surface. Always use appropriate lifting equipment and secure your vehicle with jack stands once it's elevated. Never rely solely on a car jack. Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, is also highly recommended. Remember, brake fluid can be corrosive, and brake dust can be harmful if inhaled.

Essential Tools and Materials You'll Need

Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the brake replacement process much smoother and more efficient. For this task, you will require:

• New Brake Pads: Ensure they are the correct fit for your Nissan or Infiniti model with sport brakes.
• Car Jack: For lifting the vehicle.
• Jack Stands: For safely supporting the vehicle.
• Pick or Small Screwdriver: Ideal for removing cotter pins and manipulating pad pins.
• Brake Cleaner: Essential for cleaning components and removing grime.
• Wire Brush: Useful for cleaning pad pins and caliper interiors.
• Brake Lubricant / Anti-Squeal Compound: Crucial for shim installation and noise reduction.
• Flat-head Screwdriver or Pry Bar: For gently prying out old pads and retracting pistons.
• Pliers: May assist in removing stubborn pads.
• Optional: New pad pins, especially if your vehicle has high mileage and existing pins are corroded.

Step-by-Step Guide: Front Brake Pad & Shim Installation

1. Brake Fluid Reservoir Preparation

Begin by opening the bonnet and locating the panel marked 'Brake Fluid' on the driver's side. Remove this panel to access the brake fluid reservoir. It's crucial to remove the reservoir cap before proceeding. This prevents a vacuum from forming as you push the brake pistons back, making the process significantly easier. While overflow is unlikely during this procedure, it's wise to monitor the brake fluid level throughout the process to prevent any spills.

2. Vehicle Lifting and Wheel Removal

Safely jack up the vehicle. You can choose to lift the entire car, or work on one corner at a time. Once lifted, secure the vehicle on jack stands. Proceed to remove the wheel from the corner you are working on. To ensure the rotor remains securely in place during the process, it's a good practice to re-install a couple of lug nuts after removing the wheel, even if the rotor feels stuck.

3. Removing Pad Pins and Cross Spring

Identify the two pad pins on the brake caliper. Each pin will be secured by a small cotter pin. Using your pick or a small screwdriver, carefully remove these cotter pins and set them aside. Next, use the small screwdriver to push each pad pin inwards until you can grasp the inner head and pull it out. Once both pins are extracted, the metal cross spring can be easily removed and placed aside. Be aware that vehicles with high mileage might have significant build-up on the pad pins, making removal challenging. Patience is paramount here. A spray of brake cleaner can help loosen grime, and if the pins are heavily corroded, consider ordering new ones for easier re-installation. Otherwise, a wire brush, some lubricant, and a bit of elbow grease should clean them up adequately.

4. Old Pad Extraction and Piston Retraction

With the pins and cross spring removed, you can now take out the old brake pads. They might slide out easily with pliers, but often require a little persuasion. Use a flat-head screwdriver as a pry bar, carefully pushing against the brake piston to create enough space for the pad to be extracted. Exercise caution to avoid gouging the rotor during this step. After removing the old pads, it's essential to fully push in the brake pistons to create space for the thicker new pads. For front calipers with multiple pistons (e.g., four), you'll need to push each one in. As you push one piston, another might slightly protrude, so you'll need to work methodically, pushing all of them in completely. A flat-head screwdriver or a dedicated piston retraction tool can be used, leveraging against the rotor. While the pads are out, take this opportunity to thoroughly clean the inside of the caliper where the brake pads travel, using a small wire brush and brake cleaner. This ensures smooth movement for the new pads.

5. The Crucial Step: Preparing New Pads with Shims

This is where your attention to detail regarding brake shims becomes critical. Your new brake pads may or may not come with shims pre-installed. If they do not, you will need to transfer the 2-piece shims from your old pads. First, carefully remove the old shims from the worn pads. Clean the front and back of each shim thoroughly to remove any brake dust or residue. Shims play a vital role in reducing noise, particularly brake squeal, and ensuring proper contact between the pad and the caliper pistons. To install them onto your new brake pads, begin by applying a thin, even coating of brake lubricant or anti-squeal compound to the pad side of the shim. Then, carefully snap the shim onto the new brake pad, ensuring it is oriented exactly as it was on the old pad. Once secured, apply another thin coating of the same lubricant onto the piston side of the shim. This double application of lubricant is key to minimising noise and ensuring the shims can move freely, preventing vibrations that lead to squealing. Proper shim installation is fundamental for a quiet and effective braking system.

6. Installing New Pads and Reassembly

Now, carefully slide the prepared new brake pads into the caliper. This step can sometimes be tricky as new pads are thicker and may have a layer of paint, making the fit very snug. Patience and gentle persuasion are key. A small amount of brake lubricant applied to the edges of the pads can facilitate easier installation. If one of your new pads features a wear sensor (a small metal arm), ensure that this pad is installed in the back position within the caliper. To simplify the final reassembly, ensure the brake pads are properly aligned so that the pad pins can be fully inserted without obstruction. Before inserting the pad pins, apply a thin coating of brake lubricant to each pin; this will significantly ease their installation. Position the cross spring correctly, then slide in one of the pad pins, making sure it passes over the cross spring clip. Repeat this for the second pad pin. Finally, secure both pad pins by re-installing the two cotter pin retainers.

Specific Considerations for Rear Brakes

The process for replacing rear brake pads and shims on your Nissan or Infiniti is largely identical to the front brakes. The primary difference lies in the caliper design: rear calipers typically feature only one piston per side (front and rear) that you need to retract, as opposed to the two pistons per side often found in the front calipers. This means there are fewer pistons to push back, simplifying that particular step, but all other procedures, including shim preparation and installation, remain the same.

Post-Installation Procedures: Critical Checks

Once all brake pads are installed and the wheels are back on, do not forget these crucial final steps. First, securely reinstall the cap onto the brake fluid reservoir. Before starting the engine, pump the brake pedal a few times. The first few presses will feel loose as the pistons extend and seat against the new pads. Continue pumping until a firm pedal feel is achieved. This process bleeds any air and ensures the pads are correctly seated. After achieving proper pedal feel, crank the car and depress the brakes a few more times. Finally, re-check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. Ensure the fluid is not past the 'maximum' line; if it is, carefully remove some fluid. Conversely, if the fluid level is below the 'minimum' line, top it up to the appropriate level. This final check is vital for the safe operation of your braking system.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful instructions, you might encounter minor hurdles. One common issue is stubborn pins or a tight fit for new pads. For pins, persistence with brake cleaner and a wire brush, combined with lubricant, usually works. If they're heavily corroded, replacement is the easiest solution. For tight new pads, ensure the pistons are fully retracted and the caliper interior is clean. A little extra lubricant on the pad edges can help them slide in. If the pads still won't fit, double-check they are the correct part number for your vehicle's specific sport brake system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why are brake shims so important?

A1: Brake shims are crucial for reducing brake noise, particularly squealing, by dampening vibrations between the brake pad and the caliper piston. They also help in dissipating heat and ensuring smooth, even contact.

Q2: Can I reuse my old brake shims?

A2: Yes, if your old shims are in good condition (not bent, corroded, or excessively worn), you can clean them thoroughly and reuse them. However, if new shims are supplied with your new pads, it's generally best practice to use those.

Q3: What kind of lubricant should I use for shims?

A3: Always use a high-temperature brake lubricant or anti-squeal compound specifically designed for brake components. Never use petroleum-based greases, as they can degrade rubber components and attract dirt.

Q4: What if my brake pedal feels spongy after installation?

A4: A spongy pedal typically indicates air in the brake lines. Ensure you have pumped the pedal thoroughly after installation. If the issue persists, you may need to bleed your brake lines to remove trapped air.

Q5: How often should I check my brake fluid level?

A5: It's good practice to check your brake fluid level regularly, ideally during routine oil changes or at least every six months. A consistently low level could indicate a leak or severely worn pads.

Replacing your brake pads and properly installing brake shims on your Nissan or Infiniti sport brake system is a rewarding DIY task that saves money and instils confidence in your vehicle's performance. By following these detailed steps, paying close attention to safety, and using the right materials, you can ensure your braking system remains in top condition, providing you with reliable stopping power for many miles to come. Remember, a well-maintained braking system is key to a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

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