I have a 1999 Nissan Maxima SE. I'm an amateur when it comes to working on my car. I can change my own oil, swap a hose, replace spark plugs, change air my filter, my fuel filter, and cleaned out my throttle body and IAC valve. I've even installed all new speakers (did the wiring myself; didn't have the simple adapter). However, I've never attempted to change my brake pads. All of the previously-mentioned maintenance tasks, I did after researching and discussing on this forum.
I've checked multiple sources on replacing the [particularly rear] brake pads and frankly in stumped on what's reliable. The front brakes seem pretty straight forward, but the rear brakes sound like a different story.
Do I need the "special service tool" or can I use needlenose pliers? Can I just use my jack or do I have to buy jack stands?
Also, if you guys have a link you'd like to share or have any tips, it'd be much appreciated.

 

Here's a video on replacing the rear pads.


I've retracted the caliper piston using using large needle nose pliers or a Lisle tool that I bought at Advance Auto. There are parts stores (Advance or Autozone) that will let you borrow a tool set with a returnable deposit like the one in the video.

Here's a picture of the Lisle tool that I purchased at Advance Auto for under $14 some years ago. The tool works with a 3/8 drive ratchet extension. I've been lucky that the calipers I've needed to retract went smoothly.



I've had jack stands and a floor jack for years. As you can see a jack stand is being used in the video. You can get low cost jack stands at places like Wal-Mart or Harbor Freight. The money you save by DIY should more than pay for any tools you need to buy. Then you have the tools to use for the next DIY job.

Note the following video about properly lubricating caliper slider pins.


Instructions for front brakes are listed in the "How To Section" link below.

https://maxima.org/forums/4th-genera...on-maxima.html

 

Thank you so much for your reply. This is exactly what I needed. You've made my day.

 

my experience working on cars is about the same as yours and i found myself tackling rear brakes a few months ago. 1 caliper needed replacement because the piston seals were shot and leaking fluid (too lazy to attempt a rebuild), pretty easy job to replace it. i was just going to do pads on the other one and couldn't push the piston back in. the pliers didn't work, so i rented the tool (i'd suggest trying this over pliers, you get your money back when you return it so it's free really) and still couldn't get it to budge. after wrestling with it for some time and nearly breaking the tool i just bought another caliper and installed it instead hopefully you have better luck with yours

 

Last August, I decided to do my rear brakes. (99 SE) In 25K miles, my pads looked almost new. Rut Roh. But with 185K and the reputation these have with rear calipers seizing, I went with Centric caliper assemblies and hoses. I also found a brand new Nissan rear brake hardware kit on eBay for $16. New Rotors from Napa and Axxis Brake Pads.

All nice and new again and for some reason, the car stops better?????? LOL

If the piston doesn't screw (retract) in easily, they are on their way to needing to be rebuilt or replaced. And after 16 years, they don't owe you anything! Especially with their life expectancy!

Be prepared to do the whole thing. There's a good chance you'll need to. Sometimes avoiding that is way more painful.

I HIGHLY recommend a complete power bleed for the whole braking system as well!