2009-2014 Nissan Cube Rear Brake Drum: A Guide to Wear, Inspection, and Replacement

Symptoms of a Failing Brake Drum

A worn or damaged brake drum on your 2009-2014 Nissan Cube will typically announce itself with distinct sounds and changes in brake pedal feel. Because the rear brakes do less of the work than the front, symptoms can sometimes develop slowly.

1. Scraping or Grinding Noises

This is the most common and urgent symptom. A metallic scraping or grinding sound from the rear of the car when you apply the brakes usually means the brake shoes have worn completely down. The metal backing of the shoe is now grinding against the inside of the drum, causing rapid damage. If you hear this, the drum and shoes should be inspected and replaced immediately.

2. Pulsating Brake Pedal

If you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal during braking, it can be a sign that a drum is "out-of-round." This means it's no longer a perfect circle, often due to overheating. As the drum spins, the brake shoes make inconsistent contact with the warped surface, causing the pulsation you feel in the pedal.

3. Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal

A brake pedal that feels soft, spongy, or goes down further than usual can sometimes be related to worn drums. If the drums are worn excessively thin, the wheel cylinder pistons have to travel further to push the shoes out, which can contribute to a low pedal. However, a spongy pedal is more commonly caused by air in the brake lines or a failing master cylinder.

4. Ineffective Parking Brake

The parking brake on the Nissan Cube uses the rear drum brake shoes to hold the car. If you find yourself having to pull the parking brake lever much higher than before, or if the car still rolls on a slight incline with the brake set, it's a strong indicator that the shoes are worn or the system needs adjustment. In severe cases, the drums may be so worn that the shoes can't expand far enough to make solid contact.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

As of this writing, there are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Nissan related to premature failure of the rear brake drums on the 2009-2014 Cube. Problems with these drums are typically the result of normal wear and tear. Several general recalls were issued for this generation of Cube for issues like a faulty start/stop button and potential fuel leaks, but none involve the braking system's core components. Nissan has issued general service bulletins about diagnosing brake noise and pedal feel, but these are not specific to the Cube's drums.

Buying a Used Brake Drum

A used OEM brake drum can be a cost-effective and reliable option, as factory parts often have superior metallurgy and fitment compared to low-cost aftermarket alternatives. However, since a brake drum is a wear item, careful inspection is critical before purchasing.

Physical Inspection Checklist:

• Check the Inner Surface: The inside braking surface should be relatively smooth. Avoid any drum with deep grooves, scoring, or cracks. Run your fingers along the surface to feel for any significant ridges.
• Look for Heat Damage: Dark blue or discolored patches (hot spots or bluing) on the inner surface indicate the drum has been severely overheated. Overheating can warp the drum and create hard spots that reduce braking effectiveness.
• Inspect for a Lip: A lip will form on the outer edge of the drum's inner surface as the shoes wear down the center. A small lip is normal, but a very large one indicates significant wear.
• Measure the Inner Diameter: This is the most important check. The maximum allowable inner diameter is typically stamped or cast into the outside of the drum (e.g., "MAX DIA 230MM"). Use a brake drum micrometer or precise calipers to measure the inside. If the drum is at or beyond its maximum diameter, it is unsafe to use and must be discarded. Do not purchase a drum that cannot be measured.

Cost Comparison for Nissan Cube Brake Drum Replacement

Prices can vary by supplier and location. The following table provides an estimated cost breakdown for a single rear brake drum.

Replacement Difficulty

• Difficulty: 3/5 (Moderate)
• DIY Feasible: Yes, for those with some mechanical experience.
• Estimated Time: 1.5 - 2.5 hours for both sides.

Replacing the rear brake drums is a manageable DIY job. The main challenges are safely lifting and supporting the vehicle, removing a drum that may be rusted onto the hub, and correctly adjusting the new shoes. After installation, the self-adjusters will fine-tune the shoe position over time, but an initial manual adjustment is crucial for a firm brake pedal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)