The brakes grab when slowing down?

ALEE29020

MEMBER
2000 TOYOTA 4RUNNER
4WD
AUTOMATIC
250,000 MILES

I've had my vehicle listed above for about 8 years now. It has about 250,000 miles on it and has had this elusive issue for about 3 years.

When slowing down and approaching about 5 mph or so the brakes catch and sort of stutter to a stop. It is very jarring and jerks the vehicle. It does stop but if you let off the brake a little it will roll forward and catch again. Super embarrassing when you’re going through a drive through or pulling up beside someone. Also, it is a possible safety concern. It seems to happen during warmer months as it is now January and cold and I don’t seem to have any problems with it at the moment.

I’ve had this issue checked out by several mechanics and no one has been able to locate the problem. 1 shop took the brakes apart, cleaned them, and put them back together and the issue cleared for a couple months but came back.

A client of mine (retired mechanic) said that he had a customer with a Toyota 4runner that had a similar issue, and it was the brake speed sensor. My mechanic said he didn’t think that was it. I’m tired of throwing money and prayers at the problem. Any suggestions?

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

If it is a wheel speed sensor, the ABS will actuate. This can happen if the sensor is dirty, or the tone ring is dirty. Does it seem as if the ABS is actuating?

On the other hand, the idea that it was fixed after the caliper was taken apart and cleaned leads me to think the caliper is hanging up and causing the rotor to overheat. As a result, you can get a catching or sticking feeling.

Do me a favor. After driving the vehicle, place your hand near both front wheels. Check to see if one is putting off a lot more heat than the other. Even though it is winter, you still will notice a difference. However, they will cool faster, so you need to do this as soon as you park.

Let me know what you find.

Joe