When you drive a modern vehicle with outstanding engineering, it is tempting to not give the brake system much thought. Your modern Nissan Maxima has a top-of-the-line brake system that features extra-large 12.6-inch vented front disc brakes in the front and 11.7-inch disc brakes on the rear wheels, as well as a 4-channel, 4-sensor anti-lock braking system to help you maintain control during hard braking by preventing wheels from locking up, a brake assist feature that automatically boosts your brake force when you brake suddenly, and electronic brake force distribution – a helpful feature that redirects brake power to the rear when it detects that extra weight has been added to the back. Still, however, there is no substitute for great brake components – because no matter how technologically advanced your brake system is, it still relies on basic mechanical components to physically bring your car to a stop.

For this reason, pay attention to your Nissan Maxima Brake Caliper. When you depress your brake pedal, your Nissan Maxima Brake Caliper hydraulically squeezes the brake pads against the brake rotors.

It is the friction between the brake pads and the rotor surfaces that actually brings your car to a halt – meaning that these basic components, which are subjected to high stresses and high heat, are indispensable and must be kept in the best condition possible. Your Nissan Maxima Brake Caliper is dependant on the health and status of your hydraulic brake fluid to function properly.

Be on the watch for leaks and rusting that might signal it’s been too long between hydraulic brake fluid changes (which can hurt the health of your brake caliper).