Are leaking rubber seals more common in hatchbacks than sedans?
Asked by Lindsay
I have a 2009 Nissan Tiida hatchback. I believe it has rear drum brakes. In 2014 and 2018, I had to get the rear wheel cylinders (I believe that what they’re called) replaced. That was to stop the brake fluid going on to the brake linings. My mum has a 2010 Holden Barina sedan, and doesn't have that issue. I had 1994 Mitsubishi Lancer coupe, and it sure didn't have any issues with the back brakes leaking.
How can I stop the rubber seals from leaking? I honestly have no idea of when the seals start to leak, but when they do my back brakes are no use and I have to spend more money getting the brake shoes replaced. Someone told me that it is common in all hatchbacks for the seals to leak eventually. Does this happen for sedans?
Answered by CarsGuide
9 Oct 2020There’s absolutely no correlation between body styles (hatchback versus sedan) and the propensity for leaking brake cylinders. The difference between your mum’s and your previous car and the Tiida is probably all down to the quality of the parts, not whether it’s a hatch or sedan.
Brake cylinders leak when the rubber seals inside them fail. But because the cylinder is hidden within the brake drum, a leak is often only found when the car is being serviced or inspected for a roadworthy certificate. And as you’ve found, that’s often too late to prevent the brake shoes becoming contaminated by the leaking brake fluid.
The best way to avoid leaking brake cylinders is to have the braking system flushed regularly. It’s also important to replace any leaking wheel cylinder with a good quality unit. I’m tipping the reason your cylinders failed the second time was because the original ones were replaced with cheapies (possibly sourced online) which simply weren’t as good as the Nissan originals. Always beware when buying replacement parts of any sort that they’re good quality, particularly when it comes to critical safety systems like brakes.
Other Nissan Tiida problems
- 2007 Nissan Tiida check-engine light is on
- Reverse gear delay in 2006 Nissan Tiida
- My 2007 Nissan Tiida's windows won't work
- Nissan Tiida 2012: Engine light coming on after transmission problems.
- Nissan Tiida 2010: Is it a good car?
- Suitable replacement for Tiida?
- Nissan Tiida 2009: Steering rattle and ABS gas gauge lights
- Nissan Tiida 2006: Battery not up to capacity?
