Nissan Repair: 2005 Xterra - grinding when braking in reverse only, rear disc brakes, rear brakes

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have a 2005 Xterra - 6 speed. A while ago I noticed that when I was reversing and braking - there is a grinding noise that souds like metal on metal. It used to only do it first thing in the morning when there was moisture on the vehicle. Now it does it sometimes throughout the day after the truck has been driven a bit. Dealer checked back brakes - said they were fine...its quite a loud noise? Again, it does it only in reverse and its when I use the brake. I have tried not engaging the parking brake at night - still does it. Any help would be great!

ANSWER: Hi Jennifer -

It sure does sound like the brakes. Was the front brakes checked as well? Do you feel (hear) the grinding on the steering wheel, or the entire car? If the steering wheel, check the front brake pads.

Usually the front pads goes before the back lining.

Let me know please -
aloha
calvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your prompt response Calvin,

No, I do not feel it in the steering wheel..and the front brakes were done when I bought it in Sept 2008..I have put on about 40K since then - but I don't hear any noise from the front. Yesterday it was a wet day all day - and I am trying to pay closer attention to the noise - I noticed when backing out of a parking spot that it actually made a bit of the noise before I touched the brake - it almost sounds like its coming from some part of the suspension? I recently had the front and rear diff. oil changed..and when I bought the truck (Sept 2008_) it didn't look like it had been kept up on its rust proofing so I had the underneath *oiled* last Oct and again this Oct..is there anything suspension related that could become a bigger problem? Also, when going over rough roads - I do not hear any sounds..thanks again - Jen

Answer
Hi Jen -

OK. Sure does sound like the rear brakes. can you tell me if you have rear disc brakes or drum? Just look through the rear wheel and tell me if you see a shiny disc, or a brown base.

At the same time can you do this test? Next time you hear the noise, try reversing and slowly engage the parking brake until the vehicle stops. Please tell me if you hear the noise.

Thanks and aloha
calvin