2016 Nissan Versa Rear Brakes

The 2016 Nissan Versa, a stalwart in the subcompact sedan segment, is known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. While often praised for its spacious interior and budget-friendly price tag, understanding its braking system, particularly the rear brakes, is crucial for both owners and automotive professionals. This article delves into the specifics of the 2016 Versa's rear brake setup, covering components, maintenance, common issues, and repair considerations.

2016 Nissan Versa Rear Brake System Overview

The 2016 Versa, across all its trim levels (S, S Plus, SV, and SL), utilizes a relatively simple rear braking system. Unlike some competitors that might offer disc brakes on all four wheels, the Versa employs drum brakes on the rear axle. This is a common cost-saving measure in the subcompact class. While drum brakes are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain, they also exhibit different performance characteristics compared to disc brakes.

Key Components of the Rear Drum Brake System

Understanding the components of the rear drum brake system is essential for proper diagnosis and repair. The main parts include:

Brake Drums: These are cylindrical components that rotate with the wheel. The internal surface of the drum provides the friction surface for the brake shoes.
Brake Shoes: These are curved metallic shoes lined with friction material (brake linings). When the brakes are applied, the shoes are forced outward against the inside of the drum, creating friction and slowing the vehicle.
Wheel Cylinder: This hydraulic cylinder is located inside the drum assembly. When brake fluid pressure is applied, the wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes outward.
Return Springs: These springs pull the brake shoes back to their resting position when the brake pedal is released, allowing the wheels to rotate freely.
Adjuster Mechanism: This mechanism maintains the correct clearance between the brake shoes and the drum. It compensates for wear of the brake linings to ensure consistent braking performance. Self-adjusting mechanisms are common, but manual adjustment may sometimes be necessary.
Parking Brake Cable: This cable connects the parking brake lever to the rear brakes. When the parking brake is engaged, the cable mechanically actuates the brake shoes, applying the brakes.

Maintenance and Service

Regular maintenance of the 2016 Versa's rear brakes is vital for safety and longevity. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced braking performance, increased stopping distances, and potentially dangerous situations.

Inspection Intervals

Nissan recommends inspecting the brake system, including the rear brakes, at specific intervals, typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. However, driving conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go traffic or driving in hilly areas, can necessitate more frequent inspections.

During inspection, technicians should check:

Brake Lining Thickness: The thickness of the brake linings on the shoes should be measured to determine if replacement is necessary. Minimum lining thickness specifications are typically provided by Nissan.
Drum Condition: The inside surface of the brake drums should be inspected for wear, scoring, cracks, or other damage. Drums can often be resurfaced (turned) to remove minor imperfections, but severely damaged drums should be replaced.
Wheel Cylinder Leaks: The wheel cylinders should be inspected for leaks, which would indicate a need for replacement.
Spring Condition: The return springs should be inspected for damage or weakness. Weak or broken springs can cause the brakes to drag, leading to overheating and premature wear.
Adjuster Mechanism Function: The adjuster mechanism should be checked to ensure it is functioning properly. A malfunctioning adjuster can lead to uneven brake wear or reduced braking performance.
Parking Brake Cable: Inspect the parking brake cable for proper tension and freedom of movement.

Brake Shoe Replacement

When the brake linings wear down to the minimum acceptable thickness, the brake shoes must be replaced. This involves removing the brake drums, disconnecting the various components (springs, adjusters, etc.), and installing new brake shoes. It is generally recommended to replace the brake shoes on both sides of the axle at the same time to ensure even braking performance.

Important Note: When replacing brake shoes, it's crucial to clean and lubricate the backing plate contact points to ensure smooth shoe movement. Also, the adjuster mechanism should be properly adjusted after installation.

Drum Resurfacing or Replacement

If the brake drums are scored or worn, they can often be resurfaced (turned) on a brake lathe to restore a smooth braking surface. However, there is a limit to how much material can be removed from the drums. If the drums are too thin after resurfacing, they must be replaced. Nissan provides specifications for the minimum drum thickness.

Wheel Cylinder Replacement

If a wheel cylinder is leaking or malfunctioning, it must be replaced. This involves disconnecting the brake line from the cylinder, removing the cylinder from the backing plate, and installing a new cylinder. After replacing a wheel cylinder, the brake system must be properly bled to remove any air from the lines.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Several common problems can affect the 2016 Versa's rear drum brake system. Here are some issues and their potential causes:

Brake Noise (Squealing or Grinding): This can be caused by worn brake linings, glazed brake drums, or foreign material (e.g., dirt, rust) inside the drum.
Brake Pedal Pulsation: While less common with drum brakes than disc brakes, warped drums can cause a pulsation in the brake pedal.
Weak or Ineffective Brakes: This can be caused by worn brake linings, air in the brake lines, a malfunctioning wheel cylinder, or an improperly adjusted adjuster mechanism.
Parking Brake Not Holding: This can be caused by a stretched or broken parking brake cable, worn brake linings, or a malfunctioning adjuster mechanism.
Brakes Dragging: This can be caused by weak or broken return springs, a seized wheel cylinder, or an improperly adjusted adjuster mechanism.

Troubleshooting Tip: When diagnosing rear brake problems, it's essential to inspect all components carefully. Pay close attention to the condition of the brake linings, drums, wheel cylinders, springs, and adjuster mechanism. Use a brake spoon or similar tool to check the adjuster mechanism's functionality through the backing plate access hole.

Upgrading the Rear Brakes? Considerations

While the stock drum brakes on the 2016 Versa are adequate for normal driving, some owners might consider upgrading to rear disc brakes for improved performance. This conversion involves replacing the entire rear axle assembly, including the backing plates, hubs, and brake lines. Disc brake conversions offer better stopping power, improved heat dissipation, and are generally less prone to fading under heavy use.

However, converting to rear disc brakes is a relatively complex and expensive modification. It requires significant mechanical expertise and may involve modifications to the car's brake system, including the master cylinder and proportioning valve. Always consult with a qualified mechanic before attempting such a conversion. The cost of parts and labor can be substantial, often exceeding several hundred dollars.

Cost of Repair

The cost to repair the rear brakes on a 2016 Nissan Versa can vary depending on the specific problem and the cost of labor in your area. Here are some approximate cost estimates:

Brake Shoe Replacement: $150 - $300 per axle
Drum Resurfacing: $50 - $100 per drum
Drum Replacement: $80 - $150 per drum
Wheel Cylinder Replacement: $80 - $150 per wheel cylinder

These are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary. It's always a good idea to get a quote from a reputable mechanic before authorizing any repairs.

Conclusion

The 2016 Nissan Versa's rear drum brakes are a reliable and cost-effective braking solution for everyday driving. By understanding the components of the system, performing regular maintenance, and addressing problems promptly, owners can ensure safe and dependable braking performance. While upgrading to rear disc brakes is possible, it's a significant investment that should be carefully considered. Ultimately, maintaining the rear brakes on your 2016 Versa is essential for both safety and the overall longevity of your vehicle. Remember to always consult a qualified mechanic for any major brake repairs or modifications.