2017 Nissan Maxima Brake Pads And Rotors

The 2017 Nissan Maxima, a sporty sedan with a touch of luxury, relies on a robust braking system to deliver confident stopping power. Understanding the intricacies of its brake pads and rotors, their function, and the technology behind them can empower owners to make informed maintenance decisions. This guide provides a detailed examination of the Maxima's braking components, focusing on the 2017 model year.

The Foundation of Braking: Friction and Heat

At the heart of any braking system lies the principle of converting kinetic energy (the energy of motion) into thermal energy (heat) through friction. In the Maxima's case, this conversion happens primarily at the interface between the brake pads and the rotors (also known as brake discs). When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is generated in the master cylinder. This pressure is then transmitted through brake lines to the calipers located at each wheel.

Calipers: The Actuation Mechanism

The calipers are hydraulic clamps that house the brake pads. They consist of a piston or pistons that, upon receiving hydraulic pressure, push the brake pads against the rotor. There are two main types of calipers: floating calipers and fixed calipers. While the specific caliper design may vary slightly depending on the Maxima's trim level, the underlying principle remains the same. A floating caliper typically has a single piston on one side, allowing the entire caliper to slide along pins to distribute pressure evenly. A fixed caliper, on the other hand, has pistons on both sides of the rotor, offering more even clamping force and potentially better performance, though at a higher cost. The Maxima generally employs floating calipers on both the front and rear axles.

Rotors: The Friction Surface

The rotors are metal discs that are attached to the wheel hubs and rotate along with the wheels. They are the primary surface against which the brake pads are pressed. Rotors come in various designs, including solid rotors and vented rotors. Vented rotors, which are commonly found on the front axles of performance-oriented vehicles like the Maxima, feature internal vanes that promote airflow and help dissipate heat more effectively. This is crucial because excessive heat can lead to brake fade, a condition where the braking performance diminishes due to the overheating of the brake pads and rotors. The rear rotors are often solid, as the rear brakes typically contribute a smaller percentage of the overall braking force.

Brake Pad Materials: A Symphony of Compromise

Brake pads are composed of a friction material bonded to a metal backing plate. The friction material is a carefully engineered composite designed to provide a high coefficient of friction, resist wear, and withstand high temperatures. Several types of brake pad materials are available, each with its own trade-offs:

Organic (Non-Asbestos Organic - NAO): These pads are made from organic materials like rubber, glass, and carbon fibers bonded with resin. They are typically quieter and produce less dust compared to other types, but they also wear down more quickly and are less effective at high temperatures.
Semi-Metallic: These pads contain a mixture of metallic fibers (typically steel wool or copper) and organic materials. They offer a good balance of performance, durability, and cost. They tend to produce more dust and noise than organic pads, but they also provide better braking performance, especially at higher temperatures.
Ceramic: These pads are made from ceramic fibers, bonding agents, and small amounts of metal. They offer excellent braking performance, low noise, and low dust. They are generally more expensive than organic or semi-metallic pads.

The 2017 Nissan Maxima typically comes equipped with semi-metallic brake pads as standard equipment, offering a good compromise between performance, durability, and cost. However, owners can opt for ceramic pads as an upgrade for improved performance and reduced noise and dust.

Understanding Brake Fade: The Enemy of Stopping Power

As mentioned earlier, brake fade is a significant concern in any braking system. It occurs when the brake pads and rotors overheat, causing a reduction in the coefficient of friction. This can be caused by aggressive braking, repeated braking over long distances, or using worn-out brake pads. There are two primary types of brake fade:

Friction Fade: This occurs when the friction material on the brake pads overheats and releases gases, creating a layer between the pad and the rotor. This reduces the contact area and decreases the braking force.
Fluid Fade: This occurs when the brake fluid overheats and boils, creating air bubbles in the hydraulic lines. These air bubbles are compressible, reducing the hydraulic pressure transmitted to the calipers and resulting in reduced braking force.

Vented rotors help to mitigate friction fade by dissipating heat more efficiently. Using high-quality brake fluid with a high boiling point helps to prevent fluid fade. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn brake pads is also crucial for maintaining optimal braking performance and preventing brake fade.

Signs of Brake Pad and Rotor Wear: Listen to Your Car

Recognizing the signs of worn brake pads and rotors is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of your Maxima. Here are some common indicators:

Squealing or Screeching Noises: Many brake pads have a built-in wear indicator, a small metal tab that rubs against the rotor when the pad material wears down to a certain point. This creates a high-pitched squealing or screeching noise, alerting the driver that it's time for replacement.
Grinding Noises: A grinding noise indicates that the brake pads have worn down completely, and the metal backing plate is rubbing directly against the rotor. This is a serious problem that can damage the rotors and compromise braking performance.
Vibration or Pulsation: Vibration or pulsation during braking can indicate warped rotors. Warped rotors can be caused by excessive heat, uneven wear, or improper installation.
Increased Stopping Distance: If you notice that it takes longer to stop than usual, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn down or that there is a problem with the braking system.
Low Brake Pedal: A low brake pedal can indicate a leak in the hydraulic system or air in the brake lines.

Maintenance and Replacement: Keeping Your Maxima Safe

Regular maintenance of the braking system is essential for ensuring its proper functioning and longevity. This includes:

Regular Inspections: Inspect the brake pads and rotors during routine maintenance checks, such as oil changes. Look for signs of wear, damage, or leaks.
Brake Fluid Flush: Replace the brake fluid every two to three years or as recommended by Nissan. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and lead to fluid fade.
Brake Pad Replacement: Replace the brake pads when they wear down to the minimum recommended thickness. Consult the owner's manual or a qualified mechanic for specific recommendations.
Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: If the rotors are warped or damaged, they may need to be resurfaced or replaced. Resurfacing involves machining the rotor surface to remove imperfections and restore its flatness. However, rotors can only be resurfaced a limited number of times before they become too thin.

When replacing brake pads or rotors, it's crucial to use high-quality parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. Using cheap or substandard parts can compromise braking performance and safety. Furthermore, proper installation is critical. Incorrectly installed brake pads or rotors can lead to uneven wear, noise, and reduced braking effectiveness. If you are not comfortable performing brake repairs yourself, it is always best to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic.

Always prioritize safety when working on your vehicle's braking system. Consult the repair manual for the 2017 Nissan Maxima before starting any work.

Advanced Braking Technologies: Enhancing Safety

The 2017 Nissan Maxima also incorporates several advanced braking technologies to enhance safety and control:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): EBD automatically adjusts the braking force between the front and rear wheels based on vehicle load and road conditions, optimizing braking performance.
Brake Assist: Brake Assist detects emergency braking situations and automatically applies maximum braking force to help the driver stop quickly.

These technologies work in conjunction with the brake pads and rotors to provide a comprehensive braking system that delivers confident stopping power and enhanced safety. By understanding the function of each component and performing regular maintenance, owners can ensure that their 2017 Nissan Maxima's braking system remains in optimal condition.