2020 Nissan Maxima Brake Rotor Issues? Here's How to Fix It

How to Fix Brake Rotor Issues

Dealing with brake rotor issues on your 2020 Nissan Maxima can be frustrating, but understanding the symptoms and potential causes can help you address the problem effectively. Many owners have encountered various braking-related issues, often stemming from worn or damaged components. As one owner shared: "Not long after I got the car both rear calipers and all brakes were replace and I think they replaced the brake fluid then. I replaced pads and rotors again a few years ago." [source: https://maxima.org/forums/5th-generation-maxima-2000-2003/713339-more-maxima-questions-just-rolled-over-100k-miles.html]

Symptoms

Several symptoms can indicate problems with your brake rotors. One common issue is a noticeable "pulling" sensation to one side when braking. This can be caused by uneven wear on the rotors or a malfunctioning caliper. If the vehicle pulls to the left or right during braking, it’s a strong indicator that the rotors need inspection.

Another symptom owners have reported is increased corrosion. While this isn't directly a rotor issue, corrosion can contribute to rotor wear and eventual failure. Excessive corrosion can cause uneven braking surfaces, leading to vibrations and reduced braking performance.

Furthermore, some owners have experienced "ticking" sounds emanating from the brake area. While a ticking sound can indicate several things, it’s worth checking the brake rotors for any debris or damage, especially if it coincides with other braking issues. If you notice unusual noises, investigate them promptly to avoid potential problems.

Finally, while less directly related, owners have mentioned experiencing issues during "rain". This could be attributed to decreased braking performance in wet conditions, highlighting the importance of maintaining rotors in optimal condition. Reduced stopping power in wet weather could signify worn rotors that are not properly dispersing water.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of brake-related issues on your vehicle appears to be worn or damaged metal plates, likely referring to the brake pads or the rotor surfaces themselves. These plates are essential for creating friction and stopping your vehicle. Over time, these metal plates wear down, leading to decreased braking performance, vibrations, and other issues. It's also plausible that the backing plates, which hold the brake pads, can corrode or become damaged, contributing to the overall problem.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing brake rotor problems requires a systematic approach. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the rotors. Look for signs of wear, such as grooves, cracks, or uneven surfaces. Check both sides of each rotor for consistent wear patterns.

2. Measure Rotor Thickness: Use a micrometer to measure the rotor thickness at various points. Compare these measurements to the minimum thickness specified in your vehicle's service manual. Uneven thickness or measurements below the minimum indicate that the rotors need replacing.

3. Check for Runout: Use a dial indicator to measure rotor runout, which is the amount of wobble as the rotor spins. Excessive runout can cause vibrations and noise during braking. Mount the dial indicator on a stable surface and position the tip against the rotor surface. Rotate the rotor and observe the dial reading.

4. Inspect Brake Pads: While inspecting the rotors, also check the brake pads for wear. If the pads are worn thin, they can damage the rotors and contribute to braking issues.

5. Test Drive: Perform a test drive to assess braking performance. Pay attention to any vibrations, noises, or pulling sensations during braking. Note when the symptoms occur (e.g., during light braking, hard braking, or at specific speeds).

Tools Required:

• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Lug wrench
• Micrometer
• Dial indicator
• Torque wrench
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Fix

Replacing brake rotors is a manageable task if you have some mechanical experience. Here's how to do it:

1. Loosen Lug Nuts: Park your vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on, but don't remove them completely.

2. Raise and Support Vehicle: Use a jack to raise the vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Ensure the jack stands are positioned on solid points of the frame.

3. Remove Wheel: Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

4. Remove Caliper: Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts holding it in place. Carefully detach the caliper and hang it out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Be careful not to damage the brake hose.

5. Remove Brake Pads: Take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.

6. Remove Caliper Bracket: Remove the bolts holding the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle. Remove the bracket.

7. Remove Rotor: If the rotor is stuck, you can use a rubber mallet to gently tap it until it loosens. Avoid hitting the rotor too hard, as this can damage it.

8. Clean Hub Surface: Clean the hub surface with a wire brush to remove any rust or debris. This ensures a good contact between the new rotor and the hub.

9. Install New Rotor: Place the new rotor onto the hub. Make sure it sits flush against the hub surface.

10. Reinstall Caliper Bracket: Reinstall the caliper bracket and torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.

11. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

12. Reinstall Caliper: Reattach the brake caliper and torque the bolts to the specified torque.

13. Reinstall Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts by hand.

14. Lower Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.

15. Repeat for Other Side: Repeat the process for the other side of the vehicle if necessary.

16. Bedding Procedure: Perform a bedding procedure to properly seat the new brake pads and rotors. This involves a series of controlled stops from different speeds. Check your vehicle's service manual or the brake pad manufacturer's instructions for the correct bedding procedure.

As one owner shared: "Dissambley rear brake caliper Hello everyone, I'm in the middle of rebuilding the rear brake caliper, but I have no idea on how to remove the center push rod from the caliper, FSM says remove ring C, then keyplate, and then push rod, but mine is just stuck inside....." [source: https://maxima.org/forums/5th-generation-maxima-2000-2003/713404-dissambley-rear-brake-caliper.html]. While this owner was disassembling, not replacing, calipers, it highlights the complexity of the brake system, emphasizing the importance of following each step carefully.

Parts and Tools Needed

• New brake rotors
• New brake pads (recommended when replacing rotors)
• Brake cleaner
• Caliper grease
• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Lug wrench
• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Wire brush
• Rubber mallet (optional)
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Real Owner Costs

The cost of replacing brake rotors can vary widely depending on whether you choose to do it yourself or have a professional mechanic handle the job. Here’s a cost breakdown:

DIY:

• Brake Rotors: $50 - $150 per rotor (depending on brand and quality)
• Brake Pads: $30 - $80 per set
• Brake Cleaner: $5 - $10
• Total DIY Cost: $135 - $390 (for both front rotors and pads)

Professional Mechanic:

• Labor: $150 - $300 per axle (front or rear)
• Parts (Rotors and Pads): $150 - $400 per axle
• Total Professional Cost: $300 - $700 per axle

Examples from Real Owners:

While precise cost data for 2020 Nissan Maxima brake rotor replacement is limited, extrapolating from similar vehicles and general pricing, you can expect to spend between $300 and $700 per axle at a professional shop. Doing it yourself can save you significant money on labor costs.

Prevention

Preventing brake rotor issues involves regular maintenance and careful driving habits. Here are some tips:

• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your brake rotors and pads for wear and damage. Check the rotor thickness and look for signs of cracks or grooves.

• Proper Brake Pad Maintenance: Replace brake pads before they wear down completely. Worn pads can damage the rotors and lead to more costly repairs.

• Avoid Hard Braking: Minimize hard braking whenever possible. Aggressive braking generates excessive heat, which can warp the rotors and reduce their lifespan.

• Keep Calipers Lubricated: Ensure that the brake calipers are properly lubricated. This prevents the calipers from seizing and causing uneven wear on the rotors.

• Use Quality Parts: When replacing brake rotors or pads, use high-quality parts that meet or exceed the manufacturer's specifications.

• Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any symptoms of brake rotor problems, such as vibrations, noise, or pulling, address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from NISSAN owners:

Owner Experiences

"Not long after I got the car both rear calipers and all brakes were replace and I think they replaced the brake fluid then. I replaced pads and rotors again a few years ago." — usaf2000 (source)

"Im installing the rear BBK kit made by fastbrakes and ive run into a snag with my parking brake cables. The caliper is relocated further away so the cables no longer are able to reach." — Slamrod (source)

"The caliper is relocated further away so the cables no longer are able to reach. I assumed id get enough length by loosening the cable from inside the cabin but this still doesnt give enough." — Slamrod (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "I then turned on the lights, radio, hazards, heater fan and was still getting 14.2V at the battery. After turning off the car, battery was giving my 13.1V." — maximanut2001 (source)

⚠️ "That light went off on next crank bur still have the service light.Reset the whole control system, at battery, and will try her out today. I wonder, had both back wheel bearings replaced last fall." — Roymg (source)

⚠️ "I did just get a TCS OFF SLIP Light and service light that came on for the first time. That light went off on next crank bur still have the service light.Reset the whole control system, at battery, and will try her out today." — Roymg (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix brake rotor issues?

A: Replacing brake rotors can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours per axle, depending on your experience and the complexity of the job. A professional mechanic can typically complete the job in about 1 to 2 hours per axle.

Q: Can I drive with damaged brake rotors?

A: Driving with damaged brake rotors is not recommended. It can compromise your safety and lead to further damage to the braking system. If you suspect that your brake rotors are damaged, have them inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Nissan Maxima?

A: Brake rotor wear is a common issue on most vehicles, including the 2020 Nissan Maxima. Factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices can affect the lifespan of brake rotors.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: If you have experience working on brakes and are comfortable with the process, replacing brake rotors yourself can save you money on labor costs. However, if you are not familiar with brake systems or do not have the necessary tools, it is best to have a professional mechanic handle the job. Improper installation can compromise your safety. As one owner stated: "A friend brought me a battery, I put it in and everything went back to normal. The next day A friend did the test where they took off the negative wire from the battery and the car immediately died." [source: https://maxima.org/forums/7th-generation-maxima-2009-2015/713416-possible-alternator-problems.html] - while about a battery, this underscores the importance of having the right knowledge and tools to perform repairs correctly.