How to Replace Your 2020 Toyota 4Runner Brake Pads and Fix Common Noises

How to Fix Brake Pads Replacement

Replacing the brake pads on your 2020 Toyota 4Runner is a rewarding and common DIY task that many owners tackle to save money and gain confidence. While the process is straightforward, being aware of specific model-year nuances, like a known Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for the front brakes, is crucial for a successful job. The sense of accomplishment is real, as one owner shared after their first attempt: "Changed my brake pads myself... Very rewarding to learn it myself." (source)

Symptoms

Knowing when your brake pads are due for replacement is key to maintaining your truck's safety and performance. The most common and obvious symptom is a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This sound is often caused by a built-in wear indicator—a small metal tab that contacts the rotor when the pad material gets too thin, creating an audible warning.

Beyond noise, you may experience a change in the brake pedal feel. A spongy or soft pedal that travels further toward the floorboard can indicate worn pads, as the caliper piston has to extend further to clamp the thinning material. In severe cases, this can be alarming. "Does the firewall now have a dent from how hard you pushed the brake pedal? Mine does because the first time I had this happen scared the hell out of me," one owner reported, highlighting how dramatic the pedal feel can become (source). Another symptom specific to the 2020 model year, as identified in owner forums, is an abnormal or excessive ticking noise related to the front brakes, which has prompted a manufacturer TSB.

You might also notice increased brake dive—the pronounced forward pitching of the vehicle's nose during hard braking. While some dive is normal in a body-on-frame SUV, excessive dive can be exacerbated by worn suspension components but is often more noticeable with aging brakes. As one owner with a modified suspension noted, "the on road ride was great aside from the brake dive" (source). Finally, a visual inspection is a surefire method. If you look through your wheels and see that the friction material on the pad is 3mm or less, it's definitively time for a replacement.

Most Likely Cause

The primary cause for needing a brake pad replacement is, of course, normal wear and tear from friction. However, for the 2020 Toyota 4Runner, owner discussions and a confirmed Technical Service Bulletin point to a specific issue that can accelerate wear or cause concerning symptoms: a problem with the front brake caliper mounting hardware or shims. This is not a universal failure but a known manufacturing issue for some vehicles within this model year.

The TSB (TSB-0046-25) addresses front brake noise, specifically a ticking or clicking sound. The cause is identified as improper contact or movement within the brake pad hardware (shims, clips, and pins). When these components don't function correctly, they can allow the pads to shift minutely, creating noise and potentially leading to uneven wear. One owner confirmed this, stating, "There is a TSB (TSB-0046-25) for that - just took mine in and getting replacement parts for the front brakes" (source). This means that for some owners, simply replacing the pads may not resolve the issue if the underlying hardware is the root cause. It underscores the importance of inspecting and potentially replacing all related components during a pad swap.

How to Diagnose

A proper diagnosis confirms you need new pads and helps identify any related issues, like the TSB concern. Start with a simple road test. Listen carefully for squealing or grinding noises when braking lightly and firmly. Pay close attention to any rhythmic ticking or clicking that corresponds with wheel rotation, especially from the front, as this is a key indicator of the TSB issue.

Next, perform a visual inspection. You'll need a flashlight and possibly a small mirror. Look at the brake caliper through the spokes of your wheel. On most brake pads, you will see the outer pad pressed against the rotor. Estimate the thickness of the remaining friction material (not the metal backing plate). If it's 3mm or less, replacement is needed. Check both the inner and outer pads if possible. Also, look for any signs of uneven wear, like one pad being significantly more worn than its partner on the same caliper, which could point to a sticking caliper slide pin.

For a more precise measurement or if visual inspection is difficult, you may need to remove the wheel. With the wheel off, you can use a brake pad thickness gauge or a simple ruler to measure the material. This is also the perfect time to inspect the brake hardware. Check that the metal shims and anti-rattle clips are present, not corroded, and seated correctly. Gently try to wiggle the brake pad in its bracket; excessive movement can cause noise. If you identify a ticking noise and own a 2020 model, checking for open recalls or TSBs with your VIN at a Toyota dealer website is a critical diagnostic step.

Step-by-Step Fix

Replacing brake pads on your 4Runner is a manageable project. Always work on a level surface, use jack stands for safety, and only tackle one wheel at a time to use the opposite side as a reference.

1. Gather Tools and Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a flat surface, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels opposite the one you're working on. Loosen the lug nuts on the target wheel slightly before lifting. Safely lift the vehicle using a jack at the designated lift point and secure it on a jack stand. Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.

2. Retract the Caliper Piston: Before you can remove the caliper to access the old pads, you must push the piston back into its bore. Remove the cap from the master cylinder reservoir to relieve pressure (place a rag underneath to catch any overflow). Using a large C-clamp or a dedicated brake piston tool, place the clamp's fixed end against the back of the caliper and the screw end against the metal backing plate of the outer brake pad. Slowly tighten the clamp until the piston is fully retracted.

3. Remove the Caliper and Old Pads: The front caliper on the 4Runner is typically mounted with two slider bolts. Remove the lower bolt completely. Pivot the caliper upward on the upper bolt (like a hinge) or remove both bolts and carefully support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire—do not let it hang by the brake hose. Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper bracket. As one DIY owner shared: "Changed my brake pads myself... Took off my spacers" (source), reminding us that aftermarket wheel spacers may need to be removed for clearance.

4. Inspect, Clean, and Prepare: This is a crucial step. Thoroughly clean the caliper bracket where the pads sit, removing any rust or debris. Inspect the rotor for deep grooves, scoring, or significant lip formation at the edge. Light scoring is normal, but severe damage means the rotor should be resurfaced or replaced. Clean and lubricate the caliper slide pins with high-temperature silicone brake grease. If your truck exhibits symptoms of the known TSB, this is when you would install the updated hardware kit (shims and clips) from Toyota.

5. Install New Pads and Reassemble: Place any new shims or anti-rattle clips into the caliper bracket. Slide the new brake pads into position. Carefully lower the caliper back over the pads and rotor, ensuring it sits squarely. Reinstall and torque the caliper slider bolts to specification (typically around 30 ft-lbs). Repeat the piston retraction and pad installation process for the other side of the same axle (both front or both rear).

6. Final Steps and Bedding-In: Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle to the ground and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to the proper specification (around 95 ft-lbs). Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary and replace the cap. Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm to restore proper pedal position. Finally, "bed-in" the new pads by performing a series of 5-8 moderate stops from about 35 mph down to 10 mph, allowing time for cooling between stops. This transfers a layer of pad material onto the rotor for optimal performance.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Parts:
  • Front Brake Pad Set (e.g., Toyota P/N 04465-35370 or high-quality aftermarket equivalent).
  • Rear Brake Pad Set.
  • Optional but Recommended: Brake Caliper Hardware/Shim Kit (Crucial if addressing TSB-0046-25. Toyota dealer can provide the correct kit for your VIN).
  • Optional: Brake Rotors (if worn beyond specification).
  • High-Temperature Silicone Brake Grease.
  • Brake Cleaner spray.
• Tools:
  • Floor Jack and (at least two) Jack Stands.
  • Lug Nut Wrench and Torque Wrench.
  • Socket Set (including sizes for caliper bolts, typically 14mm or 17mm).
  • C-Clamp or Brake Piston Tool.
  • Wire Brush or Scotch-Brite pad for cleaning.
  • Gloves and Safety Glasses.

Real Owner Costs

The cost difference between DIY and professional service is significant. For a DIY job, your cost is primarily parts. A quality set of ceramic brake pads for all four corners can range from $150 to $300. If you choose to replace rotors at the same time, add another $200-$400. Your total DIY investment in parts could be between $150 and $700, depending on brand and component choices.

Professional service costs are substantially higher due to labor. A standard brake pad replacement at a dealership or independent shop for both axles typically costs between $400 and $800 for parts and labor. If rotor replacement or machining is included, the bill can easily reach $1,000 or more. Some owners find a middle ground by using DIY-friendly shop spaces. "Found a shop close by that I could rent a lift at. Super reasonably priced and they provided all tools / took care of oil disposal," one owner reported, highlighting a cost-effective hybrid approach (source).

If your vehicle is covered under the TSB for front brake noise, the repair (parts and labor) should be performed at no cost to you by a Toyota dealership, as it is a warranty-related service bulletin.

Prevention

Proactive maintenance is the best way to extend brake life and prevent issues. Make visual brake inspections part of your routine tire rotations or oil changes. Avoid riding the brakes and practice smooth, anticipatory driving to reduce unnecessary wear. Flushing your brake fluid every 2-3 years as recommended prevents moisture buildup that can lead to internal corrosion in the calipers, which can cause pads to stick and wear unevenly.

If you modify your suspension or wheels, be mindful of the changes. Heavier wheels can increase unsprung weight and put more strain on brakes. As one owner philosophized, "I believe vehicles should have the smallest wheels possible that will clear the brake calipers" (source), a sentiment that aligns with reducing rotational mass for braking efficiency. Finally, if you notice any new noises or changes in pedal feel, investigate promptly. Catching a stuck slide pin or worn hardware early can save you the cost of a rotor and prevent safety issues.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from TOYOTA owners:

Owner Experiences

"Found a shop close by that I could rent a lift at. Super reasonably priced and they provided all tools / took care of oil disposal." — Glitterwizard69_ (source)

"Then took her out for a little spin in the rainy mountains. Once I got home I found a little friend in my drivers side tire." — Glitterwizard69_ (source)

"I believe vehicles should have the smallest wheels possible that will clear the brake calipers, and I will die on that hill." — GreatValue_Mechanic (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Dealership wants $1300. Thinking I’m just gonna save some money and do it myself but don’t know whether to piece together all oem parts from the dealership or buy a power stop z36 kit." — pizzaman0101 (DIY) (source)

"Fair market value vs a fair price can be different things when these vehicles hold onto their value so well. The year and milage align with the price, but if I'm paying $20k for a Toyota with nearly a hundred thousand miles on it, it better be completely rust and accident free." — Porkchop_Dog (source)

"The year and milage align with the price, but if I'm paying $20k for a Toyota with nearly a hundred thousand miles on it, it better be completely rust and accident free." — Porkchop_Dog (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to replace brake pads on a 4Runner? A: For a first-time DIYer, budget 2-3 hours for one axle (both front or both rear wheels) and 4-5 hours for all four wheels. This includes setup, careful work, and cleanup. An experienced person can often do one axle in about an hour. Professional shops typically quote 1-2 hours of labor time per axle.

Q: Can I drive with squeaking or worn brake pads? A: You can drive cautiously for a short time to get to a repair facility, but it is not safe for the long term. Squeaking is a warning; grinding metal-on-metal sounds mean the pads are completely worn and you are damaging the rotors, which increases stopping distance and repair cost. Address it immediately.

Q: Is front brake noise a common issue on the 2020 4Runner? A: Yes, it has been common enough for Toyota to issue Technical Service Bulletin TSB-0046-25 specifically for the 2020 model year to address a front brake ticking/clicking noise. Not every vehicle is affected, but it is a known pattern. Checking for this TSB with your VIN is recommended if you hear such noises.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended for a beginner? A: Brake pad replacement is one of the most accessible major DIY jobs. With proper tools, safety precautions (jack stands!), and a good guide, a motivated beginner can successfully complete it. The financial savings are substantial. However, if you are uncomfortable with any aspect, especially bleeding brakes (if required), there is no shame in hiring a professional. The hybrid option of renting a bay at a DIY garage, as some owners do, provides tools and guidance.

Q: Do I need to replace my rotors every time I change pads? A: No, not necessarily. Rotors should be replaced or resurfaced if they are severely grooved, warped (causing pedal vibration), or have a deep lip at the edge. If they are within thickness specifications and have a relatively smooth surface, you can install new pads directly onto the existing rotors after a thorough cleaning.

Q: What should I do after installing new pads? A: The most critical post-installation step is bedding-in the brakes. Drive to a safe, empty road and perform 5-8 moderate decelerations from about 35 mph to 10 mph, allowing 30-60 seconds of cool-down driving between stops. This conditions the pads and rotors for optimal performance and prevents early glazing. Avoid hard, sudden stops for the first 100 miles.