1997 Toyota 4Runner ABS front brake lock-up but system is c

Tiny
JDELANEY
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 TOYOTA 4RUNNER
Brakes problem
1997 Toyota 4Runner 6 cyl Four Wheel Drive Automatic

Hi guys

I have a somewhat confusing question here. I have been having a problem with the front brakes on my 97 4runner locking up in wet/snowy conditions. I have had my mechanic due a complete check and everything checks out fine - he did notice a problem with the brake cylinder which he changed along with a couple of leaking lines. He even asked 2 other mechanics what could be causing this problem but noone can figure it out since the system is checking OK. I called my local Toyota dealer but since the ABS check light goes off after it does its self test they're only answer was "bring it in we'll look at it". We actually tightened the rear brakes a little tighter to help compensate for the front brakes locking-up.
Do you have any reason what could be causing this?
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 10:20 AM

8 Replies

Tiny
STLGUY
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
"I have a somewhat confusing question here. I have been having a problem with the front brakes on my 97 4runner locking up in wet/snowy conditions. I have had my mechanic due a complete check and everything checks out fine - he did notice a problem with the brake cylinder which he changed along with a couple of leaking lines. He even asked 2 other mechanics what could be causing this problem but noone can figure it out since the system is checking OK. I called my local Toyota dealer but since the ABS check light goes off after it does its self test they're only answer was "bring it in we'll look at it". We actually tightened the rear brakes a little tighter to help compensate for the front brakes locking-up.
Do you have any reason what could be causing this?"

I am having the same problem as you on my '99 4-Runner and no one can figure it out.
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 12:55 PM
Tiny
JDELANEY
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Thanks. At least I know I'm not the only one having this problem. The only thing my mechanic thought that could be happening is that the front lines are suctioning in on themselves and shutting off the flluid. I'm thinking of changing the front lines and try that out first - our other option was completely disconnect the system. I'm not buying a new ABS system.
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 2:15 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
As a test just pull the ABS fuse, any recent brake work on it?
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 4:03 PM
Tiny
JDELANEY
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I thought about removing the fuse but being that I use it now as a family vehicle I was always afraid to remove the fuse since it looks ok - but I took out the fuse and went out for a test drive alone in our new 3" snowfall (so far). So far so good - no noticeable pedal fall or front wheel lock up and no grinding ABS system noise + no immediate sliding. Now I feel stupid - wish I would of taken out the fuse before.

Thanks merlin2021 - hopefully this takes care of the whole problem. You can't believe how many people have looked at my 4runner brake issue and came up empty with no answer !
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 5:28 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
Ok your welcome, if I find anything more I will post it for you. Toyota hasnt released any Tech bullitens for this problem, but if you want to report it to NTHSA then call 1-888-327-4236 who knows, maybe another RECALL on Toyota is in the making!
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Monday, February 15th, 2010 AT 6:55 PM
Tiny
STLGUY
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I pulled the fuse and the brakes work just fine- thanks for the tip!
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Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 AT 7:51 AM
Tiny
JDELANEY
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I might just call Toyota and do that. It could just be a fluke in some of the sytems which still checks Ok who knows.
Thanks again
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Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 AT 9:25 AM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
You bet! Think of ABS to brakes as computers are to engines, we ran pretty good cars before the PCM came along! You base brakes will funtion without ABS and after pulling the fuse, brakes work good, this means there is a defect in the ABS!
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Tuesday, February 16th, 2010 AT 3:48 PM

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