A properly functioning brake system is critical to your safety while driving, so if you experience braking problems with your Nissan, it is best to have it checked out right away. Fortunately, diagnosing Nissan brake problems is fairly straightforward and can be done by a qualified mechanic or with the right knowledge and tools.
The first step in diagnosing Nissan brake problems is to check the brake fluid level. To do this, locate the brake fluid reservoir cap near the wheel and unscrew it. If the fluid is too low, top it off with DOT-3 brake fluid and check the hoses and lines for leaks. If fluid is leaking from any part of the system, it should be replaced immediately.
The second step is to check the condition of the brake pads. Visual inspection will allow you to observe the wear and tear on the brake pad surfaces. If the pads are worn down to the metal, they must be replaced. If there is still some pad material remaining, the brakes will still operate but with reduced stopping power.
If the brake pads are in good shape, then the cause of the braking problem might be due to a sticking caliper. This occurs when part of the caliper does not move freely and causes the brakes to stay applied. To test for this, use a tire gauge to measure the pressure in each wheel, then apply the brakes and compare the measurements. If one wheel has more pressure than the others then the caliper is likely to blame.
Another potential cause of problem is a faulty brake booster. This component is responsible for creating the vacuum pressure that assists with the brake application. To check the brake booster is functioning, start the engine and hold the brake to the floor. If the engine RPM decreases drastically then the booster is likely faulty.
If all of the above checks did not reveal the source of the braking problem, you should have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. A more detail visual inspection of the brakes might be required to determine the exact cause. In some cases, the braking system might have to be checked with a pressure gauge to verify its performance.
In conclusion, diagnosing Nissan brake problems can usually be done quickly and easily by a qualified mechanic or with the right knowledge and tools. It is important to ensure that your brake system is functioning properly, and any signs of reduced stopping power should be addressed right away.
