how to fix my Toyota Camry Eighth Generation (2018-present) that is shaking when braking

Toyota Camry Eighth Generation (2018-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

503 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 shaking brakes in your 2018-2023 Toyota Camry. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Allow brakes to cool before handling components.

Symptoms

•Steering wheel shakes during braking
•Vibration felt through the brake pedal
•Uneven wear on brake pads or rotors
•Increased stopping distance
•Pulsating brake pedal

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping by measuring runout with a dial gauge.
2
Check brake pads for uneven wear or damage.
3
Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, tie rods) for wear or play.
4
Inspect wheel alignment and balance.
5
Verify brake fluid level and condition.

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

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Dial gauge
•Jack and jack stands
•Bungee cord

Parts Required

•Brake rotors (if warped)
•Brake pads (if worn)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety.

2. Remove Wheel

Use a socket set to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel.
Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Components

A. Inspect Brake Rotors

Remove caliper bolts using a socket set.
Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a bungee cord.
Measure rotor runout using a dial gauge; if warped beyond specifications (generally more than 0.002 inches), proceed to replace.

B. Replace or Resurface Rotors

If rotors are warped, remove them from the hub and install new rotors or have them resurfaced if still within specs.
Torque the new rotors to the manufacturer’s specification (consult service manual).

C. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

Check the thickness of the brake pads; if worn below 3mm, replace them.
Remove the old pads by sliding them out of the caliper bracket.
Install new brake pads, ensuring they are properly seated.

4. Reassemble Components

Reattach the caliper over the new pads and rotor, tightening the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's torque specifications.
Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

5. Lower Vehicle and Final Checks

Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle.
Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.