why is my Toyota Corolla E140 (2006-2013) making a grinding noise when braking

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and materials.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Remove Wheel

• Sub-steps:
  • Loosen lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle.
  • Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure with jack stands.
  • Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
• Tools Required: Lug wrench, jack, jack stands.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-steps:
  • Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set.
  • Lift the caliper away and support it without putting stress on the brake line.
  • Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  • Insert new brake pads, ensuring they are correctly oriented.
  • Reinstall the caliper and tighten bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually 20-30 ft-lbs).
• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Sub-steps:
  • Check rotor surface for grooves or warping.
  • If damaged, remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws or bolts.
  • Install new rotors, ensuring they are clean and free of grease.
  • Tighten retaining screws to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Tools Required: Socket set, impact driver (if applicable).

5. Reassemble and Test

• Sub-steps:
  • Reattach the wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts.
  • Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and tighten lug nuts to manufacturer specifications (usually 76-80 ft-lbs).
• Tools Required: Torque wrench.