I did a search, but didn't really find anything on this specific topic. I have a little over 300 miles on my '06 V6 4Runner, and I've noticed (since I got the truck) that the brakes do not start to make contact until the pedal is about 1/3 of the way down, however, the brakes lights come on as soon as the pedal is pushed, even though it's not braking. It almost feels like I have to apply extra pressure to get it to brake, and you can feel the road bumps, vibrations through the pedal. Is this normal? I've never had a truck before (have a 1994 Toyota Corolla which doesn't do this, and an Audi A4 right before the 4Runner). Is this something more truck specific? It seems I'm pushing the pedal down pretty hard just to keep it stopped at a red light, and if I let up on even slightly, it starts to move. I've noticed this since I got it (I didn't test drive this one since it was from a dealer out of town). If anyone has any input, I'd certainly appreciate it!

Thanks in advance for your help...

Matt

Take a test drive in a different 06 4Runner.

Koz

Your brake lights will always come before the brakes really start slowing because that is just a little switch that is released by the brake pedal itself. I know in my 04 V8, especially if the ac is on, when your stopped and the compressor kicks on the truck can try to go forward unless I have brake pushed down pretty hard. I think its just the nature of the beast in the truck. As far as not feeling the brakes work right away...not sure what to tell you. I agree, go take another one for a ride and see how it responds then make your decision.

My brakes are very sensitive (and always were) and do not need much pressure. Check by driving another vehicle.

Koz

I've got the same runner you do. When I first got it the brakes were very sensitive. I barely touch the pedal and they grabbed. Now, 6 months later, they've broken in or I got better at braking. My pedal goes down a few inches and brakes smoothly instead of jerking. (5,000 miles)

Sounds like you may have air in the brake line or your brakes may need some adjusting, any how, bring it back to the dealer.

Yup mine are the same and I like it that way. My 93 Celica had the similar initial bite, but the 4Runner tops it with ABS and EBD.

If I pushed my brake pedal down 1/3 of the way, my head would definitely jolt forward! I would definitely have the dealer inspect your truck. You never want to mess around with brakes!

I think that your undergoing a learning experience moving from sedans to SUV's. Our 4runners do drive a little bit differerently than cars do.

100% agree with Mark86. Anything beyong a light push on the pedal and the passengers complain about breaking too hard.

I also have a SR5 4WD Runner. I, too have to push harder on my brake pedal at times. I had to push harder more often after I upgraded to the sport edition 17 inch rims.

As you know the sport edition version came with larger front brakes which I am thinking of upgrading to if I decide to keep my truck past 2008.

I think SE breaks are a lot more sensitive than that of SR5 or limited. I might be wrong but I test drove both limited and SE, and i found everything on SE feel more sensitive and connected.

I also have Lexus IS350 which is consider more sporty than 4Runner SE. Even compare to my IS, my SE breaks are a lot more sensitive.

The 05 Limited has the same rotors as the SE.

Koz

I think you really wanted that SE!

This 4Runner is the first Toyota/Lexus product I've ever had that has not developed a soft brake pedal after 1000 miles. The brakes are firm, and the brake assist is VERY sensitive to pushing the brake pedal harder than usual. It's very reassuring to know that this 4000 pound truck will stop on a dime if necessary, but the trick is not to brake so hard that the truck thinks it's necessary!

Unless you spend MEGA bucks (Thousands) on a complete system (including new wheels) you will not improve the braking on the 4th gen 4Runner. The stock braking system is the class leader and works great. The trick is to keep an eye on the pads and change them when they are half worn. Don't let them get worn more or they will not dissipate heat properly and cause problems. Also remember to torque the lugs to spec.

Koz