How to Change the Brakes on a 2001 Nissan Xterra

The braking system on the 2001 Nissan Xterra contains three major components. The brake rotor is the disc that is squeezed by the brake pads to slow and eventually stop the Xterra. The brake pads come in contact with the rotor during braking. The caliper houses the brake pads, the piston forces the pads against the rotor, and the brake line injects the brake fluid to extend the piston. Each component needs to be in proper working condition to provide the intended stopping power. If any or all of the components fail, replacement is necessary. Once you recognize the culprit for the malfunction, it is a good idea to inspect the other components to prevent future failure.

Instructions

Park the Xterra in a location that will provide a safe area in which to work. Place the transmission in "park" and apply the parking (or emergency) brake.

Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels with the tire iron or a 17 mm socket and ratchet.

Place the lifting jack beneath the vehicle and lift the Xterra. Place jack stands beneath the frame to support the vehicle while you work. The tires should be well clear (at least 2 inches) of the ground.

Remove the lug nuts and take the wheels off of the wheel bolts.

Inspect the rotors. The surface of the rotors should be smooth and flat. Remove the rotors by pulling them from the wheel bolts. Have them resurfaced professionally if the brake pad wear indicators have scored them. Replace the rotors if the disc is warped or wavy.

Remove the caliper bolts with the 13 millimeter wrench. The caliper bolts are on the outside of the caliper, nearest to the frame of the Nissan.

Place the drip pan under the brake. Remove the brake line from the caliper with the10 mm wrench. Allow the brake line to hang over the drip pan to catch any leaking brake fluid.

Place the brake pads into the new caliper. The pads will slide onto either side of the caliper and be held into place by thin metal clips on the backside of the pads.

Connect the brake line to the new caliper. Tighten the line onto the caliper with the 10 mm wrench.

Place the caliper onto the rotor. Replace the caliper bolts and tighten them with the 13 mm wrench.

Place the wheel back onto the wheel bolts and screw on the lug nuts.

Lift the Xterra with the jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the Nissan to the ground and tighten the lug nuts with the tire iron.

Lift the hood of the Xterra and remove the master cylinder cap. The master cylinder is located near the windshield of the vehicle.

Press and hold the brake pedal to inject brake fluid into the new caliper.

Check the level of brake fluid in the master cylinder and add fluid as necessary.