2019 Nissan Altima Brake Kit

If you're looking to enhance the braking performance of your 2019 Nissan Altima or are simply due for routine maintenance, understanding your options for a 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit is essential. This article provides a comprehensive guide to choosing the right brake kit, covering everything from different types to installation considerations.

Understanding the Importance of High-Quality Brake Kits

Your 2019 Nissan Altima's braking system is arguably its most crucial safety feature. A well-maintained braking system ensures you can stop quickly and safely in various driving conditions. A subpar or worn-out braking system can significantly increase stopping distances, putting you and other drivers at risk. Investing in a high-quality brake kit is an investment in safety.

Regular brake maintenance, including replacing worn pads and rotors, is crucial. Symptoms of worn brakes include:

Squealing or grinding noises when braking
Vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal
Increased stopping distance
A spongy or soft brake pedal feel
Visible wear on the brake pads or rotors

Ignoring these signs can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line, and more importantly, compromise your safety. A complete 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit offers a convenient and often more cost-effective solution compared to buying individual components.

Components of a 2019 Nissan Altima Brake Kit

A typical 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit includes several key components:

Brake Pads: These are the friction materials that press against the rotors to slow down the vehicle. They are made from various materials, each with its own characteristics in terms of performance, noise, and longevity.
Brake Rotors: These are the metal discs that the brake pads clamp onto. They dissipate heat generated during braking. Rotors come in different designs, such as solid, vented, and drilled/slotted.
Brake Hardware: This includes clips, shims, and springs that hold the brake pads in place and ensure proper function. New hardware is often included in brake kits to prevent noise and ensure optimal performance.
Caliper Brackets (Sometimes Included): Some kits may include new or remanufactured caliper brackets, especially if the existing ones are corroded or damaged.

While some kits may include brake calipers, this is less common, and calipers are usually replaced separately if needed.

Types of Brake Pads for Your 2019 Nissan Altima

Choosing the right brake pads is crucial for optimal braking performance. Here are the most common types:

Organic Brake Pads: These are the least expensive option and are made from a mix of fibers, rubber, and other materials. They are quiet and provide good stopping power for everyday driving. However, they tend to wear down faster than other types and are not suitable for high-performance driving.
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: These pads contain a mix of metal fibers and other materials. They offer better stopping power and last longer than organic pads. However, they can be noisier and may cause more wear on the rotors. These are a good all-around choice for many drivers.
Ceramic Brake Pads: These pads are made from ceramic fibers and offer excellent stopping power, low noise, and long lifespan. They are also gentle on rotors. However, they are typically more expensive than organic or semi-metallic pads. They are often considered the best overall choice for many vehicles.
Performance Brake Pads: These are designed for high-performance driving and offer the best stopping power, especially at high speeds. They can be made from various materials, including carbon fiber and Kevlar. However, they can be noisy, wear down quickly, and may require a warm-up period before they perform optimally.

For most 2019 Nissan Altima drivers, semi-metallic or ceramic brake pads offer the best balance of performance, longevity, and cost.

Types of Brake Rotors for Your 2019 Nissan Altima

The type of rotor you choose can also affect braking performance. Common rotor types include:

Solid Rotors: These are the simplest and least expensive type of rotor. They are suitable for everyday driving but may not dissipate heat as effectively as other types.
Vented Rotors: These rotors have fins or vanes between the two braking surfaces, which helps to dissipate heat more efficiently. Vented rotors are a good choice for vehicles that are frequently driven in stop-and-go traffic or that are used for towing.
Drilled and Slotted Rotors: These rotors have holes and/or slots on the braking surface, which further improves heat dissipation and helps to prevent brake fade. They also help to remove debris and water from the braking surface. However, they can be more prone to cracking, and are generally not recommended for everyday driving unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer.

For a 2019 Nissan Altima, vented rotors are often the best choice for the front brakes, as they experience the most heat during braking. Solid rotors are typically used on the rear brakes.

Choosing the Right 2019 Nissan Altima Brake Kit

When selecting a 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit, consider the following factors:

Driving Style: How you drive your Altima will significantly influence your choice. If you primarily drive in city traffic with frequent stops, a kit with good low-speed stopping power and noise reduction is ideal. For more aggressive drivers, a kit with enhanced heat dissipation and fade resistance is crucial.
Budget: Brake kits range in price from budget-friendly options to high-performance kits. Determine your budget before you start shopping to narrow down your choices.
Brand Reputation: Choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality brake components. Reading reviews and checking customer ratings can provide valuable insights.
Warranty: Look for a brake kit that comes with a warranty. This protects you against defects in materials or workmanship.
Completeness of the Kit: Ensure the kit includes all necessary components for a complete brake job, including pads, rotors, and hardware.

Some popular and reputable brake kit brands include:

Power Stop: Known for their performance brake kits and their Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Kit, a popular choice for everyday driving with improved stopping power.
EBC Brakes: Offers a wide range of brake pads and rotors for various applications, including their Greenstuff and Redstuff pads.
Akebono: A leading OE supplier of brake pads, known for their quality and quiet operation.
Centric Parts: Offers a variety of brake components, including their Premium and Posi Quiet lines.

Installation Considerations

Installing a 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit can be a DIY project for experienced mechanics. However, if you're not comfortable working on your car's braking system, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the installation.

Here are some important considerations for installation:

Tools: You'll need basic tools such as a wrench set, socket set, brake spring tool, torque wrench, and jack stands.
Safety: Always use jack stands to support the vehicle and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Procedure: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional.
Brake Bleeding: After installing new brakes, it's essential to bleed the brake lines to remove any air. This ensures proper brake pedal feel and stopping power.
Break-In Period: New brakes require a break-in period to properly seat the pads and rotors. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for break-in procedures. Typically, this involves avoiding hard braking for the first few hundred miles.

Professional Installation: While DIY installation can save money, professional installation ensures the job is done correctly and safely. A qualified mechanic can also inspect the entire braking system and identify any other potential issues.

Cost of a 2019 Nissan Altima Brake Kit and Installation

The cost of a 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit can vary depending on the brand, type of materials, and completeness of the kit. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 or more for a complete kit.

Labor costs for professional installation can also vary depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the job. Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for labor.

Saving Money: You can save money by purchasing a brake kit online and having a local mechanic install it. However, be sure to choose a reputable online retailer and a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion

Choosing the right 2019 Nissan Altima brake kit is a crucial decision for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. By understanding the different types of brake pads and rotors, considering your driving style and budget, and carefully following installation procedures, you can ensure that your Altima's braking system is functioning optimally. Whether you choose to tackle the installation yourself or hire a professional, investing in a high-quality brake kit is an investment in your safety and peace of mind. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with a qualified mechanic if you have any doubts or questions.