Parts for your 1999 Nissan Navara-Brake shoes

1999 Nissan Navara brake shoes — what they do and when to replace

Technical sources confirm brake shoes are relevant and fitted to the 1999 Nissan Navara (D22). The Nissan Navara D22 Service Manual (Brake System section), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, and common aftermarket catalogues from Bendix and Ferodo all specify rear drum brakes with leading/trailing brake shoes on 1997–2004 D22 models, including 1999. Front brakes are discs, while the handbrake operates the rear drums via the shoes, so brake shoes are a key service item on this ute.

On the 1999 Navara, the rear brake shoes sit inside the drum and are pushed outward by a wheel cylinder when the brake pedal is applied. The friction lining on each shoe presses against the drum’s inner surface to slow the vehicle. The same shoes are pulled by the handbrake mechanism to hold the ute on hills. It’s a simple, tough setup that suits load-carrying and off-road use, which is why Nissan kept drums at the rear on D22.

Servicing the rear shoes is straight-up but important. Inspection every 20,000 km or 12 months is sensible, especially if the vehicle tows, works off-road, or sees beach use. Shoes should be replaced before the friction material gets too thin (workshop guides typically call time at around 1.5–2.0 mm of lining). Glazing, cracking, oil contamination from a weeping wheel cylinder or axle seal, or heat spotting on the drum are all reasons to renew parts. Cleaning should be done with approved brake cleaner, avoid blowing dust around.

When replacement is due, change shoes as an axle set and fit a hardware/spring kit so return springs and hold-downs are fresh. Inspect the wheel cylinders for leaks and free movement, and measure drum diameter to ensure it’s within spec, machine or replace drums if out-of-round or beyond limit. Adjust the star wheel so there’s a slight, even drag, then set the handbrake, most tech data targets a firm hold within about 6–8 clicks. After refit, bed the brakes in with a series of gentle to moderate stops and recheck adjustment after a few hundred kilometres. Look out for tell-tales between services: longer pedal travel, reduced handbrake hold, scraping or squeal from the rear, or a pull to one side under braking.

Popular questions

Does a 1999 Nissan Navara have rear drum brakes or rear discs?
The 1999 Navara (D22) runs front discs and rear drum brakes with replaceable brake shoes. That layout is shown in the Nissan D22 service information and echoed by major brake catalogues for Australasian models.

How often should the rear brake shoes be replaced on a 1999 Navara?
There isn’t a fixed kilometre number because driving and load vary, but many Navaras see 40,000–80,000 km from a set. Annual or 20,000 km inspections are recommended, with earlier replacement if the linings are thin, contaminated, or the handbrake performance drops.

What are the signs the rear shoes need adjustment or attention?
Common signs are longer pedal travel, the handbrake needing more than about 6–8 clicks to hold, squeal or scraping from the rear, uneven braking, or poor hold on hills. Any fluid traces at the backing plate suggest a wheel cylinder or axle seal issue that should be fixed before new shoes go in.