Wanted to ask everyone what their thoughts were on upgrading my OEM brakes on my '02 Max.

My Max has about 137,000 Miles on it and I'm preparing it for it's final run. I figure the way the engine is running, I have a good 100,000 + miles left on it before I decide to buy a newer max.

With that in mind, I want to upgrade my brakes as that seems to be the ONLY problem with my car. The shaking and bucking from when I stop from high speeds is horrible. What does everyone on here recommended?

My Threshold is to not go over $1,000 on a brake kit. I'd prefer to be in the $750.00 range but if I must go over that, then I guess it's worth it because I don't mind spending that kind of money vs. buying a newer Max and having monthly car payments.

 

6th gen calipers, any blank rotors, OEM or equivalent pads for front only = approx. $400 total.

/end thread

 

What's the approx. lifespan if I go that route? I mean I don't mind spending a little more if higher quality means that they will:

1. Last closer to 100K Miles
2. Omit less brakedust
3. Not cause my car to shake when braking at high speeds

 

Forgot to mention. I'm replacing BOTH Front and Back brakes.

 

I think you also need to consider rim clearance. What sort of rims do you have?

Also see for plenty of info on this topic:

http://forums.maxima.org/6887000-post5.html

 

I don't know if any brake pads can last 100K lol...but you won't have the shaking feeling anymore since pad transfer won't be an issue and have better braking due to larger caliper as well. For rear, just do any blank rotors and OEM pads.

So in summary:

Front = 6th gen calipers, 6th gen blank rotors, OEM or like pads
Rear = 5th gen blank rotors, OEM or like pads

I say OEM since you wanted quiet and not dust too much, which can't be said of many many aftermarket pads.

 

Yea see..that's why I come on here. To ask you guys for your advice.... otherwise I'd go out and buy something along the lines of Brembo when it's not necessary.

Anyway, in response to Puppetmaster....I have the OEM 17"s that come with the Max. Wanted to go out and find 6th Gen OEM 18"s but not with the miles that the car already has on it.

 

supposedly the 02-03 maxima 17s are fine w/ the 6th gen front brake upgrade from what i read, so you are fine. that's what i plan on doing here soon is the 6th gen front brake upgrade

 

300zx Calipers + 13'' cobra rotors = great stopping power..but they won't fit with the stock oem 17's


[IMG][/IMG]

 

One of the vendors in the "special deals" section sells KYB shocks and Brembho rotors. Their stock rotors are great! Or, you can upgrade to a slotted type while still staying with a 5th generation setup. Buy their best brake pads and it becomes an easy job! Did it on my backs, so far.

Vic

 

I appreciate the feedback from everyone so far. Thanks alot.

One last question. In terms of spacers for the new set-up:

Will I need a specific mm size for the set up that I have?

I'm working with the OEM 17"s with no plans to go bigger.