Brake Pad Swap on a 2003 TRD Tacoma (rear wheel drive)

Hey folks,

New to the DIY mechanic game but enjoying it so far. Next on my repair list are brakes, as I’m starting to hear the high pitch whistle when coming to a stop. A few “rookie” questions:

1) I notice a lot of YouTube tutorials changing brakes on 1st gen Tacoma’s only change the pads on the front wheels, not the rear. Assuming this is from more braking force being applied to the front of the vehicle which is heavier, harder to stop. Do you guys follow the same convention and only change the front pads? If so, how often do you change the rear pads?

2) my rotors look and feel smooth (no idea how old they are but no divots or grind indentations). For that reason, I’m inclined to leave them be and only change out the pads. Is this a fair approach or should I also do rotors?

3) how often do you guys flush and change your brake fluid? Does it make a big difference?

thanks guys!

 

Its all based on condition really.

1 - generally 100k - 200k before replacing depending
2 - I follow that logic, if they are not noticeable warped or pitted I leave them be
3 - Yes, when its dark the integrity of the fluid is bad and will affect braking performance so its time for a change. Fairly simple just time and a 2nd person to help pump the brakes if you don't have a vacuum brake bleeder..

 

My brake fluid seems to get changed for one reason or another about every two years

Comes down to the thickness of the lining on the rear shoes.

If you seldom haul loads or tow with the truck rear shoes can last a easy 100,000 miles.

 

1) Rear drum brake shoes tend to last a lot longer, though they can still wear prematurely if misadjusted or if the mechanism seized. The drum brake needs to be disassembled for cleaning and lubrication every two years / 20k or so. If you notice the shoe friction material worn down or damaged (cracks, chunks missing), then replace it.

2) Rotors can stay if they're above the minimum thickness spec'd in the service manual. Sometimes the numbers are cast into the rotor hub.

3) I do it every 4 years. The Toyota maintenance booklet used to say every 4 years; now it says every 3 years.

 

I had the same question about people only replacing front breaks. Im planning on upgrading mine to Tundra breaks soon since I don't know the last time they were changed so I figured I'd just do front and back at the same time.

Post about how your job goes!

 

Just be aware that you have drum brakes in the back. Replacing the brake shoes is a completely different process than the front brake pads. You need some special tools to compress and extend the springs.