1999 Nissan Maxima Rotor won't turn when new brake pads put

KCARROLLFNP

MEMBER
1999 NISSAN MAXIMA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
187,000 MILES

Hello. I am asking this question for my husband who has spent hours trying to put the rear brake pads on my Nissan Maxima. He has changed he pads before on many occasions and is not a novice.

He had trouble this time in getting the bolts to line up, but did get the pads and calipers on, but now the rotor won't turn. Any suggestions. He thinks he should put the tire back on and pump the brakes?

Any help is welcome. Are the newer brake pads thicker than they use to be and don't work well on older cars?

thx. Kathy

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi Kathy,

There are a few things that could cause the problem :

1. Brake caliper piston not fully retracted. Piston has to be turned clockwise and pressed in to retract.

2. Piston not aligned with pin on pads. Ensure pitson slots are aligned and not seat onto the pin of pads.

3. Caliper slider pins stuck and not fully retracted. Pull out caliper and clear any debris inside the slider pin holes.

4. Handbrake cable adjusted too tight not allowing the handbtrake lever to be fully retracted. This would not allow the piston to retract fully. Loosen handbrake cable and turn piston fully in. Readjust cable after pumping the brake pedal a few times to allow the brake to self-adjust.