1993 Nissan Maxima Rear Brakes Locked

ILAMEER628

MEMBER
1993 NISSAN MAXIMA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
95,350 MILES

I have had this car in my garage while I was out of the country for 3 years. It has not been turned during that time. I was in the process of repairing it when I discovered that my rear driver side tire does not rotate. I took off the tire and discovered that the brake pads are locked onto the rotor. I am trying to relieve that pressure but the components are all rusted. Any advice on how to relieve that pressure is greatly appreciated.

3 Replies

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

I am assuming that the caliper bolts have already been removed. Spray some penetrating oil like PB Blaster onto the rusted surfaces between caliper and pads, and between pads and rotors. Let it soaked for a while. Loosen the brake bleeder screw. You will have some brake fluid mess, so be prepared. You should be able to remove the caliper out now. You may tap the caliper with a rubber mallet, too.

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Tuesday, November 11th, 2008 AT 9:53 PM

ILAMEER628

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I was able to get the caliper off, but the piston is very rigid and I'm finding it hard to push in even with a C clamp. I also made sure that I took out the bleeder valve screw. Any suggestions.

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Tuesday, November 18th, 2008 AT 7:39 AM

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

You can't use a C-clamp for rear brake. In most vehicles (except where rear parking brake shoes are separate), the rear brake is used for parking brake as well. As you use the brake, the rear piston twists out more and more for parking purposes. You will need this tool (Disc Brake Piston Tool)

One of the sides of this tool will match the grooves onto your piston, and all you have to do is keep turning clockwise using your standard 3/8" ratchet. This particular one is PN 648410 from Checker O'Reilly, sells for $10. You may put the bleeder valve back in, before or after, doesn't really matter. Just make sure you bleed the system.

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Tuesday, November 18th, 2008 AT 5:43 PM