Clunking sound when braking

Tiny
HWOODS0329
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 TOYOTA 4RUNNER
  • 3.4L
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 88,000 MILES
A few days ago I noticed a strange noise start happening when I brake. It is like a clunking sound that slows down with the speed of the car. It only occurs when braking and the intensity of the clunk changes every time. It sounds almost like something builds up tension and then releases with a clunk with every rotation of the tires. Any thoughts?
Again you only hear it when the brakes are applied.
Monday, August 16th, 2021 AT 6:59 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,724 POSTS
Hi,

First, is it loud enough for you to record and upload for me to hear? If it is a clunking, it could be a badly warped rotor, a loose brake caliper, a worn or stuck brake pad, and so on.

When you hear the noise, do you feel anything in the vehicle? For example, does the steering wheel shake or can you feel the noise through the floor? Also, can you tell if it is in the front or rear of the vehicle?

What I suggest is this. We need to check the condition of the brake pads. Since it only happens when the brakes are applied, it is most likely the brakes.

I am going to provide the directions for replacing the front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. These directions are in general, but you can follow them to do the inspection.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-rear-brake-shoes-and-drums

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-front-brake-pads-and-rotors-fwd

Let me know if this helps, what you find, and what I can do to help.

Take care,

Joe
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Monday, August 16th, 2021 AT 9:37 PM
Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Do you feel pulsation on the brake pedal?
What about the steering wheel, does it shake?
Also have you got a chance to do a visual inspection?

Check the brake system like the pads, rotors and the calipers.

You might have something loose or broken. As you slow down the frequency changes with your speed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/vehicle-grinding-noise

Let me know what you find and I will be more than happy to assist.

Thank you.
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Monday, August 16th, 2021 AT 9:39 PM

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