How to Replace a Caliper in a Nissan Sentra

Replacing a brake caliper in a Nissan Sentra, or any other vehicle, is a task not to be taken lightly. Such maintenance is best recommended for a trained mechanic. Should you look to replace a caliper yourself, consult such an expert before taking on such a job.

Instructions

1

Take the wheel off of the vehicle once it is securely raised on the jack stand. Use the "five-star" pattern to remove the lug nuts, removing the nut across from the one previously removed.

2

Disconnect and plug the brake hose from the caliper, discarding the washers on the bolt. Remove the parking brake cable and the lock spring if it's a rear caliper. Remove the caliper pin bolts.

3

Remove the caliper, pivoting it upward away from the rotor and sliding it off the pin sleeve. Remove the pads, shims and pad springs.

4

Install the replacement caliper with new pads, new shims and the pad retainers. Torque the pin bolts to 16 foot pounds to 23 foot pounds.

5

Connect the hose with new washers, tightening the flare nut to 12 foot pounds to 14 foot pounds. Connect the lock spring and the parking brake cable back onto a rear caliper.

6

Bleed the brake system by opening the bleeder valve and having another person depress the pedal to remove air. (Use a clear vinyl tube on the valve.) Top off the master cylinder afterward if needed.

7

Reattach the wheel and lower the vehicle. Test the brakes for firmness. Don't do so on the road until after they feel firm while stopped.