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Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Third Generation (2014-2019)/my Toyota Highlander shakes when braking what could be causing this

my Toyota Highlander shakes when braking what could be causing this

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
498 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

Discover the causes and solutions for shaking when braking in your Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide for diagnosing and fixing brake issues.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on the brake system.
  • ⚠Allow the brakes to cool before servicing to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Vibration or shaking felt in the steering wheel during braking
  • •Pulsation in the brake pedal
  • •Uneven wear on brake pads or rotors
  • •Noise coming from the brakes (squeaking or grinding)
  • •Vehicle pulls to one side while braking

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven surfaces.
  2. 2Check brake pads for wear and proper installation.
  3. 3Examine suspension components for wear or damage, including control arms and bushings.
  4. 4Test brake calipers for proper operation and ensure they are not sticking.
  5. 5Verify tire balance and alignment, as these can impact braking performance.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Remove Wheel

  • Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts of the affected wheel.
  • Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  • Remove the wheel completely.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

  • Inspect Rotors: Check for signs of warping or scoring. If damaged, replace.
  • Remove Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper using a socket wrench and secure it with a bungee cord to avoid straining the brake line.
  • Remove Rotor: Unscrew the retaining screws (if applicable) and slide the rotor off the hub.
  • Install New Rotor: Place the new rotor onto the hub and secure it with screws.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

  • Remove Old Pads: Take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  • Install New Pads: Apply brake grease to the back of the new pads and insert them into the caliper bracket.

5. Reassemble and Test

  • Reattach Caliper: Position the caliper over the new pads and bolt it back in place.
  • Reinstall Wheel: Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  • Lower Vehicle: Remove jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground.
  • Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 80-100 ft-lbs).

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
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Brake cleaner
  • Bungee cord

Parts Required

  • Brake rotors
  • Brake pads

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

2 items

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