my Toyota Camry XV40 (2007-2011) shakes when I brake, what's wrong?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and safety equipment: gloves, safety glasses, jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.

2. Wheel Removal

• Loosen lug nuts on the affected wheel slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground.
• Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Brake Component Inspection

• Rotors:
  • Use a dial indicator to measure rotor runout and check for warping.
  • If warped, replace rotors with OEM quality parts.
• Brake Pads:
  • Inspect the brake pads for wear; they should have at least 3mm of material.
  • If worn unevenly or too thin, replace with OEM pads.
• Calipers:
  • Check for proper movement of the caliper pistons. If they are stuck, service or replace the caliper.

4. Reassembly

• If rotors or pads were replaced, install new components in reverse order.
• Ensure to torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically 76 lb-ft for Toyota).
• Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle to the ground.

5. Brake System Bleeding (if calipers were replaced)

• Use a brake bleeder kit to remove any air from the brake lines.
• Starting from the furthest caliper from the master cylinder, bleed each caliper until a steady stream of fluid flows, ensuring no air bubbles are present.