New 4runner owner: question on brakes

[avantgarde]

Hi everyone, over the weekend I picked up a clean '07 SR5 2WD V8 with 45K miles. The engine pulls hard and the car drives great (its nice to be able to fly over speed bumpers for once).

I'm not sure if this is normal, but I can feel the brake pedal pulse as I step on it (not referring to emergency braking where the ABS system kicks in). I notice the harder I step on the brake, the pulsation is not as obvious. I think its not normal since even my passenger can feel the car pulse as I come to a stop.

I know the 4runner uses hydraulic assisted brakes so is this a normal quirk about the car or is there something wrong? I inspected the rotors and they seem fine and the pads have 80% left. The steering wheel doesnt vibrate at high speeds.

I want to verify this since I bought this car to tow my track car. I definitely dont want the brakes to fade/fail on me while I'm towing. BTW, the car shouldnt have any problems towing 6000lbs right?

Thx in advance.

 

[gman72]

I know the 4runner uses hydraulic assisted brakes so is this a normal quirk about the car or is there something wrong? I inspected the rotors and they seem fine and the pads have 80% left. The steering wheel doesnt vibrate at high speeds.

Vibration/pulsation like maybe a warped rotor? Could be warped and need turning or replacement. Steering wheel vibration could be a symptom of warped rotor, but not necessary for it to still be warped. I'd think braking pulsation would narrow it down.[/quote]

BTW, the car shouldnt have any problems towing 6000lbs right?
Thx in advance.

Probably not ... I think the later gens are rated for 7000 or so no? I have a 2003 and regularly tow 5,000+ no problem. Guess it depends on how far/long you're towing and over what sort of hills. Braking = different story.

 

[avantgarde]

So safe to say its not normal? I knew I should've included a clause about the brakes when I bought the car. I had a feeling something wasnt right but I bought this car from a Lexus dealership (sales man boasted they provide full disclosure and everything about the car checks out according to them).

I'm hoping its because the brake pads are still fairly new and it needs more time to get seated against the rotors (doubt it was turned when the pads were replaced).

Best way to know for sure is to go test drive another v8 4Runner. :wtf:

 

[riceandpho]

check for those anti rattling spring, if its missin, 2 on each side, one up and one down. learn from my mistake, use new hardware on brake jobs, like get new anti rattling spring, and new retaining clips for the pins. i almost had a pin fall off and it could killed my brakes and rim.

 

[gman72]

Turning the rotors is not a major expense, but I think it's pretty much standard that it's recommended to do the pads as well, regardless if turned or replaced, and regardless of how much % is left on the existing pads. Again not talking about huge $$ here.

I'd say any pulsating/vibration is not normal. Heck, maybe take it back to them and complain a bit. Best case get it fixed for free. Worst case you're out a few $$.

Different story if any other problems are causing it (bad ball joint/etc), but likely it's just the rotors and/or pads causing it, especially on braking only.

 

[toyotatech84]

If you are mechanically inclined take a look at the calipers, its a well known fact our front calipers pistons seize big time. If you feel the brake pedal pulsate when braking then more than likely your front rotors are warped. if you feel the whole truck pulsate (almost like a thrusting feeling) when applying brakes then the rear rotors are warped. hope that helps.