my Toyota Corolla E210 (2019-2024) shakes when I hit the brakes, what’s causing it?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts required for the repair.
• Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Disconnect the battery before beginning any work on the braking system for safety.

2. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-steps:
  1. Remove the wheel using a socket set.
  2. Inspect the brake pads for thickness; replace if worn below manufacturer specifications (typically 3mm).
  3. Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set and slide the caliper off.
  4. Replace the brake pads with new ones, ensuring they are correctly oriented.
  5. Reinstall the caliper and torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually 25-35 ft-lbs).

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

• Sub-steps:
  1. Check the rotors for warping or scoring.
  2. If warped, remove the rotor by unbolting it from the hub using a socket set.
  3. Clean the hub surface before installing new rotors.
  4. Install new rotors, ensuring they are seated correctly and torque the bolts to specifications (typically 70-90 ft-lbs).

4. Brake Fluid Check and Replacement

• Sub-steps:
  1. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for fluid level and condition.
  2. If the fluid is contaminated or low, bleed the brake system using a brake bleeder kit.
  3. Refill the reservoir with fresh brake fluid recommended for the vehicle (DOT 3 or DOT 4).

5. Reassemble and Test

• Sub-steps:
  1. Reinstall the wheel and torque lug nuts to specification (typically 76-83 ft-lbs).
  2. Reconnect the battery.
  3. Test the brakes at low speed to ensure proper function and that shaking is resolved.