my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) is making a grinding noise when braking

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

575 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix grinding noise when braking in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow the vehicle to cool down before working on the brakes to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Grinding noise when applying brakes
•Vibration in the brake pedal
•Reduced braking efficiency
•Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
•Unusual wear on brake pads or rotors

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake pads for wear and thickness using a visual assessment.
2
Check brake rotors for scoring or warping.
3
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes related to the braking system.
4
Examine brake calipers for proper function and any signs of leakage.
5
Test brake fluid level and condition; check for contamination.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Lug wrench
•Floor jack and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Brake grease
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•New brake pads
•New brake rotors (if necessary)
•Brake fluid (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake pads for wear and thickness using a visual assessment.
2
Check brake rotors for scoring or warping.
3
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes related to the braking system.
4
Examine brake calipers for proper function and any signs of leakage.
5
Test brake fluid level and condition; check for contamination.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical components.

2. Remove Wheel

Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
Raise the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it on jack stands.
Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the braking components.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

Inspect Brake Pads: Remove the brake caliper by loosening the caliper bolts with a socket set.
Check Thickness: Measure the thickness of the brake pads; if less than 3mm, they should be replaced.
Remove Old Pads: Slide the pads out of the caliper bracket.
Install New Pads: Apply brake grease to the backs of the new pads and install them in the caliper bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

Check Rotors: Measure the thickness of the rotors; replace if they are below the manufacturer's specifications or if there are deep grooves.
Remove Caliper Bracket: If rotors need replacing, remove the caliper bracket by removing the bracket bolts.
Replace Rotors: Slide the old rotor off the hub and install the new rotor, making sure it's seated properly.

5. Reassemble Braking Components

Reattach the caliper bracket and caliper, ensuring all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 79 ft-lbs for caliper bracket bolts).
Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

6. Final Checks

Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 76 ft-lbs).
Reconnect the battery.