The New "What did you do with your Z today" (with off topic replies) XXVII

Originally Posted by Ghostvette

A visual inspection can show you most of what you need to know. Most of this list depends on mileage, fronts usually need to be replaced about 50k, depending on how the person drives. If they tend to run up on a stop sign and slam on the brakes, could be a shorter period. Normally, you will replace the rear brakes the second time you do front pads.

1) Front pads are probably below 50%
2) Rear pads might be almost gone. If the parking brake is integral to the rear caliper, if the parking brake is not used, the rear calipers may have locked up and and the rear brakes are not working at all.
3) This will require some help, check for the rubber brake line bulging. It may not be evident visually, it might take holding the brake line in your hand while someone else steps on the pedal.
4) Clogged vacuum booster line. This usually manifests as a hard pedal.



Just some things to get you started.

Originally Posted by Leingod

I'm thinking it's pads. I don't believe the dealership even looked at them. And I am not sure if hers were ever replaced to begin with. I already have a spare set of fronts to replace them with. I'll take the car to a local shop since the rears are drums.

T Hey were very quick to point out I accidentally had 2 crush washers on my last oil job though!

Originally Posted by Ghostvette

Since the rear brakes are drums, they might not be properly adjusted. There should be a slight drag when the wheel is spun. If you can turn the wheel by hand and not feel or hear the shoes dragging on the drum, then they need to be adjusted. The simple way to do this is to put the car in reverse and drive it backwards, applying light pressure to the pedal. Most modern systems self adjust in this manner.

Originally Posted by b15

This. Drums that are not properly adjusted have a big effect on pedal travel.

More importantly, I can't believe there's a modern day car still utilizing drum brakes. But then again, it's a versa. Just burn it.

Originally Posted by Leingod

Other than the brakes, it's a fun little hatchback. I prefer it over my beater Focus. Practical, reliable so far, can be tossed around easily, cheap to fix, and easy to work on.

The focus side mirror was $100 even from my shop. Can't complain.