my Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present) brakes pulsate when stopping what's wrong

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and securely lift it using a jack and jack stands.
• Wear safety gloves and goggles.

2. Remove Wheel

• Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel.
• Lift the vehicle and remove the lug nuts completely.
• Take off the wheel to access the brake components.

3. Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors

• Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set and slide the caliper off the rotor.
• Inspect the brake pads for uneven wear; replace if they are worn down below 3mm.
• Check the rotor surface for warping or scoring. If warped (more than 0.002 inches), consider resurfacing or replacing the rotor.

4. Replace or Resurface Rotors

• If the rotors are warped, either resurface them or replace them with new ones.
• If resurfacing, ensure the rotor is within the manufacturer's specifications.
• Clean the rotor surface with brake cleaner to remove debris and oil before installation.

5. Reassemble Brake Components

• Reinstall the caliper over the new or resurfaced rotor.
• Tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's torque specification (usually around 20-30 ft-lbs).
• Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

6. Lower Vehicle and Final Checks

• Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
• Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (typically 76 ft-lbs).
• Pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure proper brake pad seating.