Over the years Nissan vehicles have been equipped with a variety of different types of brake calipers. The type of caliper installed on a particular Nissan will depend on the model, year and trim level of the vehicle. Here we will provide an overview of the different types of Nissan brake calipers and how they work.
Floating caliper brake systems are the most common type of caliper used on most Nissan vehicles. In this type of system, the caliper has two pistons and is mounted on a single slider. This slider is used to move the caliper in and out as the pads wear, allowing the pads to remain in contact with the rotor.
Fixed caliper brake systems are typically found on more sophisticated models, such as the Nissan GT-R. In this type of system, the caliper is mounted in a fixed location on the brake rotor. As the brake pads wear, the caliper does not shift, instead the pads are forced apart by a pair of steel pins located on either side of the caliper. This system allows for more consistent brake performance and better control of the brake pads.
Pistonless caliper systems are becoming increasingly popular on modern Nissan models. In this system, the brake pads are directly connected to an actuator, which is mounted in the caliper housing. As the brake pedal is depressed, a series of plates within the actuator move to compress the brake pads against the rotor. This system offers improved braking response and more consistent brake feel.
Finally, there are sliding caliper brake systems. These systems feature a single caliper that slides along an axle in order to move the pads closer to the rotor. These systems are typically used on performance vehicles and are designed to provide improved feedback and more consistent braking performance.
No matter what type of caliper is installed on your Nissan vehicle, the importance of regularly servicing and maintaining the brakes cannot be overstated. Regular brake checks can help to ensure that your brakes are performing optimally, while also helping to prevent wear and tear on the brake components. Ultimately, this will result in improved performance and longer lasting brake components.
