I searched the forum and found quite of few threads on the brake pedal noise but they were all at least six-month old threads. I am wondering if this was still on on-going issue.

I bought my 2011 4Runner about three months ago. I just now started to hear this soft, hissing, squishy, airy noise coming from the brake pedal inside the cabin when I apply brakes. It is a noticeable noise when the cabin is quiet with the vehicle moving in low speed. I called the dealer and was told this is a normal brake noise. I called the local auto repair shop and they said they would charge me for some labor for an extensive check. Anyway, has there been any new development on this noise issue, or do I just need to suck it up and turn on the stereo? Thanks.

They are six month old threads because there is nothing wrong with the brakes that needs checked or changed or redesigned. They are just different is all. They are designed this way to help stop quicker in a panic stop. It takes a while to get used to them and now that I am I think other vehicle's brakes are too touchy! No issue other than just different is all.

I noticed that noise as well, the first time I drove my mine off the lot. Brand new with only a few miles, I just figured that's how they are designed; and so it was.

I bought my 2011 4runner on 10/1/11 and notice this right away. I did some searching in the forum and a lot of people said this is normal. As of now, I think I am so use to it that it does not even bother me anymore.

Check the blinker fluid!

I already checked the blinker fluid and muffler belt and both seem to be functioning ok. I don't think they are the source of the noise. But thanks anyway.

Its characteristic of the hydraulic brake booster. My tacoma sport didnt make the noise because it had the vacuum brake booster, but my new off road model makes the same noise as the 4runner.

Its the wet spong sound but yes it normal and I believe we all have it.

You should try searching again now... Maybe there are some more new threads on this important topic.
If not, it would be a good idea to ask again in a new thread every week or so...

my 2011 does it as well as my old 2006.....









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My TE does it. I actually really like it.

Ok, I'll get use to it. This is my first SUV and I have always wanted a 4runner since many moons ago. I guess I was looking for perfection. I have a sensitive hearing and can pick up pin drop from far away. I'll deal with it.

Wanted mine for 11 years so I feel you on that. I find it very helpful offroading. With so much to concentrate on it is a great audible clue as to how hard I've pressed the brakes.

I just picked my new 2012 LE up yesterday and didn't hear the noise on the way home because I was cranking up the stereo, however when I got home I noticed the exact same soft, hissing, squishy, airy noise coming from the brake pedal (thanks for writing that as I had a hard time trying to explain it) I also notice some pedal noise when I let off the brake, almost sounds like the pedal is loose but after reading this I guess it's normal.

It is a normal noise. But I just wish the brakes were a little more grabby. I am still not used to mine. Sometimes I think it is never going to stop! I end up in cross walks all the time because the vehicle wont stop unless I slam on the brakes.