Replacing front brake pads RAV4 - 2nd generation

Updated: 05/26/2021 12:20:29

Expert: Mikhail Alekseevich

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Replacing brake pads on a Toyota RAV 4 is performed during scheduled maintenance or when a malfunction occurs in the brake system. The pads need to be changed at least once every two years, provided that the car travels up to 20,000 km per year. There are a large number of models on the market, but not all of them can compete in technical characteristics with their analogues. We have conducted numerous instrumental and laboratory studies to compile a list of the best brake pads for RAV 4.

When do you need to change brake pads on a Toyota RAV 4?

The vehicle owner's manual indicates the frequency of replacing brake pads. However, this indicator is only a guideline; it must be adjusted to the individual operating conditions of each machine. There are a number of characteristic symptoms, when they occur, you should choose new pads and install them on your SUV. These signs include:

1. Unpleasant squeaking noise when braking.
   This effect occurs when friction elements wear out. A squeak indicates that the disk is in contact with an unprotected metal part of the structure. In this case, emergency repairs are required.
2. The pedal does not respond correctly when pressed
   . Pad wear causes the gap between the disc to increase. This affects the travel of the pedal, as well as the time it takes for the pad to contact the disc.
3. Increasing pedal pressure.
   This symptom occurs for the same reason as a change in pedal travel.
4. Increased brake fluid consumption
   . The problem is a consequence of worn brake pads.
5. A beating occurs when you press the brake pedal
   . The sign indicates abrasion of the pads, as well as serious damage.

If any of the above problems occur, you should have your vehicle diagnosed to find out the exact cause of the problems with the brake system. After this, you can proceed to repair work. We recommend visually inspecting the brake pads every 10,000 miles. The presence of metal shavings is a characteristic sign of brake pad wear. Moreover, it is important to examine the condition of the disk; there should be no damage on it in the form of scratches or chips.

How to replace the front brake pads on a Toyota RAV 4?

To replace the front brake pads, you will need at least minimal knowledge of the design of the car, as well as a set of necessary tools. It is not at all necessary to immediately go to a service station, because you can carry out repairs yourself. Step-by-step instructions for replacing brake pads are as follows:

1. On all wheels, you need to loosen the mounting bolts; first, the car is raised on a jack. At this stage, increased safety precautions should be observed.
2. The steering wheel must be unscrewed to one of the extreme positions to open access to the caliper.
3. The bolts are unscrewed with a 14-gauge socket, after this process the brake calipers can be raised.
4. Then you can remove the old brake pads.
5. If the caliper has not been serviced before, then it is at this stage that new guides should be installed on it. It would be a good idea to replace the boot, especially if there is visible damage. It is necessary to apply special lubricant to all elements of the brake system, except the disc and pads. To install new pads, follow these steps:
6. The caliper piston must be returned to its initial position. You must first remove the cap from the brake fluid reservoir.
7. New system parts are installed in place of old elements.
8. After this, you can close the caliper and tighten the mounting bolts that were removed at the first stage.
9. Upon completion of all activities, the entire brake system should be bled using a special fitting.

Step by step installation of rear brake pads on Toyota RAV 4?

The technology for replacing rear pads is practically no different from the front ones. Therefore, the step-by-step instructions are completely similar. However, you should adhere to several important recommendations:

1. During the repair work, you need to check the condition of other parts of the brake system. For example, the presence of scratches or chips on the brake disc indicates the need to install a new element.
2. The pad replacement procedure is carried out simultaneously on both sides.
3. It is important to make sure that the guides and anthers are working properly. These are consumables, so they need to be changed regularly after reaching a certain mileage.

Replacing the rear pads on a 2014 Toyota RAV 4 is difficult because the car owner does not have the ability to remove the wheel. In this case, it is better to immediately contact an official salon or workshop. The cost of the service varies from 1500 to 2000 rubles. However, you still have to choose brake pads. You can buy this part for a crossover in almost any car store.

Top 2. Bosch 0986494154

Rating (2021): 4.05

40 reviews from resources were taken into account: Reviewer

• Characteristics

  Average price: 1650 rub.

• Country: Germany
• Thickness, mm: 15.5
• Wear warning indicator: no

These rear pads are often used to replace factory pads. For Toyota RAV 4 with rear disc calipers, the purchase of Bosch clutches is dictated not only by financial attractiveness. They generate little dust, have a good power reserve, operate quietly, but there are rarely complaints about acoustic discomfort online. At the same time, users note the effectiveness of the pads during frequent braking with heavy loads (on a mountain road) - the pads, despite heating, brake without complaints. For RAV 4 owners who prefer a relaxed driving style, Bosch pads last much longer than their counterparts. All of the listed characteristics are valid for original linings - the presence of fakes on the market largely explains the rarity of negative reviews.

Advantages and disadvantages

• fair price
• Don't create dust
• Long lasting
• Does not vibrate under extreme braking

• There are fakes

See also:

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Common Brake Pad Problems

A common problem is brake pad whistling; it is associated with vibrations caused by the friction between the disc and the pads. The Japanese automaker installs non-metallic linings on Toyota cars, so they provide a minimal level of vibration and increased driving comfort. The original pads have anti-noise plates. These elements are not always included with new pads, but you can use old anti-sound pads, but you should first analyze their condition.

Other problems associated with brake pads include:

1. Incorrect pad installation.
   Violation of installation technology, as well as the absence of anti-squeak plates, can lead to unpleasant squealing and a decrease in the efficiency of the braking system.
2. Providing poor quality service
   . Regular maintenance of the brake system is the key to safety, long service life and reliability of the car. Brakes require regular lubrication because the main parts of this system are in constant friction.
3. Condition of the boot.
   Often, after installing new brake pads, the boot is bent or deformed. This impairs the performance of this element, which can ultimately lead to serious malfunctions.
4. Wear and distortion of the brake disc
   . The first sign of this problem is the occurrence of increased vibration in the caliper. The main reason is disc curvature and wheel bearing play. During operation, a groove appears on the brake disc; when it touches the brake pad, it can cause a squeak. Even the best brake pads will not work effectively on a crooked rotor.
5. Incompatibility of materials.
   This problem may occur immediately after installing new pads or may appear after overheating. The physical properties of friction linings change as a result of thermal effects, for example, during sudden cooling or contact with water. This factor must be taken into account when purchasing new brake system components.
6. Oxidation of brake system parts.
   If no problems were found during the operation of the car, but after a long period of parking a specific squealing noise appeared, then the problem lies in oxidation or the presence of excessive moisture. These factors cause an increase in the coefficient of friction.
7. Brakes overheating
   . Frequent and prolonged pressing of the brake pedal increases the temperature of the system. After the brakes cool down, a whistling noise appears. An increase in temperature above 200 degrees provokes the release of phenolic resins that are present in the pads. These substances change the surface of the brake linings, which changes their technical characteristics.

The occurrence of each of the above problems requires increased attention. The occurrence of an unpleasant squeal is a characteristic sign of a malfunction of the brake system, in which case you should think about buying new brake pads. Choosing reliable parts is quite problematic, since the market is replete with a large number of different models from dozens of manufacturers. We conducted various instrumental and laboratory studies, which allowed us to identify several optimal options for the Toyota RAV 4.

Top 3. TRW GDB3424

Rating (2021): 3.69

61 reviews taken into account from resources: Reviewer

The most popular among RAV 4 owners Durability and excellent braking performance have made TRW GDB3424 pads the most popular among Toyota RAV 4 owners, even despite the high price tag.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 2370 rub.

• Country: Germany
• Thickness, mm: 17.5
• Wear warning indicator: no

According to many users, TRW brake pads are not inferior in performance to the originals, but have a more attractive price. At the same time, there are reviews with subjective assessments that the quality of parts has become somewhat worse than it was 5 years ago. These front pads are made from organic materials and are considered soft, which can predictably cause dust during aggressive driving. In quiet city conditions and on the highway, this model demonstrates excellent braking capabilities. The graphite included in the linings ensures quick grinding in of the pads, demonstrating the most careful treatment of the disc. Many Toyota RAV 4 owners note the increased service life of this model after replacement.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Organic composition
• Anti-noise plates
• Long life

• May get dusty
• Expensive

See also:

• 10 Best Timing Belts

The best brake pads for Toyota RAV 4

The operational safety of the vehicle directly depends on the performance of the braking system. At the first signs of brake pad wear, you should think about selecting, purchasing and installing a new set. There are a large number of different models on the market designed for the RAV 4, but not all of them correspond to the declared characteristics. That's why we tested several dozen options from various manufacturers to compile a list of the best brake pads for Toyota RAV 4.

ATE 13046057652

Rating: 4.9

This model showed one of the best results in our testing. First of all, we can note the short braking distance; the difference between this option and Chinese analogues was 3-5 meters when braking at a speed of 100 km/h. For the manufacture of pads, only high-quality materials are used - durable metal and abrasion-resistant friction lining. A few kilometers after installation, the pads completely got used to it, the nasty sound disappeared and braking became smoother. The rear pads are suitable for dynamic driving conditions, so the ATE 13046057652 is often the choice of drifters.

Characteristics of brake pads ATE 13046057652:

thickness – 15.5 mm;

height – 49.2 mm;

width – 96.6 mm;

weight – 910 grams;

wear sensor – missing.

The ATE brand belongs to the famous company Continental Teves. The manufacturer produces brake system elements, various cables and hoses. The company's turnover is 3 billion per year, so it can confidently be called one of the largest companies engaged in the production of automobile spare parts. ATE products are installed on cars from the assembly line, such brands include BMW, Skoda, Ford, Toyota and VW.

Review from user Gregory_man (owner of Toyota RAV 4) on otzovik: “During the time I owned the Toyota RAV 4, I tried various models of brake pads and only recently was able to find the best option for myself. A mechanic had long ago recommended ATE 13046057652 pads, but I didn't know anything about this brand, so I didn't take the risk. However, I purchased this particular set of pads quite by accident and was pleasantly surprised. Even visually the pads look better than their analogues. I prefer dynamic driving, so the issue with overheating was quite acute, but 5 months of operation have already passed and I have not noticed any shortcomings.”

Advantages

• great resource;
• high work efficiency;
• resistance to elevated temperatures;
• increased strength;
• corrosion protection.

Flaws

• not the lowest price on the market.

TRW GDB3424

Rating: 4.8

In terms of technical characteristics, this option is close to the original, but at the same time costs an order of magnitude cheaper. The front pads are made of organic substances and are classified as soft, so they generate dust in certain conditions. This option is best suited for quiet driving in city traffic. The pads quickly grind into the disc due to the presence of graphite. An excellent addition would be an increased resource, which will allow you to save on vehicle maintenance. Characteristics of TRW GDB3424:

1. width – 146.6 mm;
2. thickness – 17.5 mm;
3. height – 57 mm;
4. wear sensor – not installed.

The TRW manufacturer first appeared on the automotive market in 1901. The company has been a leader for more than 100 years, has won a huge army of fans, and has production bases all over the world. The products of the American brand combine many years of experience and modern technology. Now the company is actively introducing innovations to solve problems of passive and active vehicle safety.

Advantages

• complete silence;
• long service life;
• made from organic materials.

Flaws

• get dusty when driving aggressively;
• have a high cost.

TRIALLI PF1911

Rating: 4.7

The main advantage of TRIALLI PF1911 front brake pads is the ideal ratio between price and quality. The friction lining is moderately soft, making braking noiseless but quite effective. The model does not have a negative effect on the metal disc. Our tests have shown that the pads are resistant to slight overheating, but with an aggressive driving style, braking efficiency decreases and black stripes appear on the surface of the disc. This option is suitable only for a moderate driving style. Characteristics of TRIALLI PF1911:

1. width – 150 mm;
2. length – 80 mm;
3. height – 70 mm;
4. weight – 1500 grams;
5. wear sensor – not installed.

TRIALLI supplies the market with high-quality products for trucks and cars. The main positive qualities of the Russian brand include affordable cost, high manufacturing precision, and the use of modern production technologies. Triali products are popular in Japan, America, Australia, the CIS countries and Europe.

Review from user kreator2504 (owner of Toyota RAV 4) on drive2: “For a long time I couldn’t decide on brake pads. I was choosing between the original and TRIALLI PF1911. Still, he took a risk and made a decision in favor of the latter. After 6 months, I have absolutely no regrets about the choice. Among the advantages, I can immediately highlight the low cost and the absence of any sound during braking. Several times I noticed black marks on the surface of the disc and realized that they appeared after overheating, so I began to drive more carefully. If you prefer a moderate driving style, then you can safely choose this model.”

Advantages

• affordable price;
• silent operation;
• Suitable for urban conditions.

Flaws

• intense abrasion;
• are subject to overheating, which reduces the efficiency of the braking system.

BLUE PRINT ADT342171

Rating: 4.6

These brake pads provide effective braking in any mode of vehicle operation, and therefore have gained great popularity among Toyota RAV 4 owners. The product has a large margin of safety because it is made of high-quality materials. This allows you to withstand increased loads and also be resistant to corrosion. Immediately after installation, the pads may creak unpleasantly, but after grinding in, the negative effect disappears. Characteristics of BLUE PRINT ADT342171:

1. width – 155 mm;
2. length – 139 mm;
3. thickness – 17.5 mm;
4. height – 55.7 mm;
5. wear sensor – absent;
6. weight – 1560 grams;
7. wear sensor – not installed.

BLUE PRINT is one of the most famous foreign manufacturers of automotive parts. The company cares about its authority and reputation, therefore it takes a responsible approach to product quality. Before reaching the end consumer, brake pads undergo several stages of testing for defects. The main feature of ADT342171 brake pads is durability, which is achieved through the use of high-quality materials, modern manufacturing methods and the use of anti-corrosion technologies for processing parts.

Advantages

• do not damage the disk;
• high efficiency;
• are not subject to corrosive destruction.

Flaws

• On a wet road surface, the pads make an unpleasant sound.

Bosch 0986494154

Rating: 4.6

A worthy alternative to original pads. The German brand takes a responsible approach to the manufacture of its products. That is why the pads have high technical characteristics, uninterrupted operation and a long service life. The only negative noted by car owners is minor acoustic discomfort. Increased strength and long service life make it possible to install the pads on cars that operate in difficult conditions, for example, in mountainous areas. Characteristics of Bosch 0986494154:

1. thickness – 15.5 mm;
2. height – 49.2 mm;
3. width – 96.7 mm;
4. wear sensor - no.

Bosch is known throughout the world as a manufacturer of premium products. The brand is distinguished by high quality, reliability and long service life. The elements of the car’s braking system must correspond to these qualities. Bosch brake pads are installed on many luxury cars off the production line as they have proven to be some of the best on the market.

The performance of the braking system directly depends on the quality of the brake pads. Therefore, the choice of kit should be approached as responsibly as possible. It is not at all necessary to pay colossal amounts of money for original products; you can give preference to high-quality and more affordable analogues. However, finding a decent option is problematic, so we looked at the most popular offers on the market and identified the 5 best models of brake pads for the Toyota RAV 4.

Advantages

• long service life;
• high quality;
• do not vibrate or generate dust.

Flaws

• There are a lot of fakes on the market

Top 5. TRIALLI PF1911

Rating (2021): 3.46

Best price For Toyota RAV 4 these are the most affordable brake pads among those participating in the rating. The closest budget competitor, BLUE PRINT overlays, differs in cost by only 10%.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 975 rub.

• Country Russia
• Thickness, mm: 17.5
• Wear warning indicator: no

To replace faulty brake pads on the front axle of a car, economical RAV 4 owners often choose TRIALLI PF1911. The main advantage of this model is the low price for quite acceptable quality. The soft friction material ensures virtually silent operation, while demonstrating optimal grip characteristics with the brake disc, with virtually no wear on the latter. Not resistant to excessive overheating and may leave black marks after frequent braking at speed. Car owners note that the presented pads are completely unsuitable for aggressive driving, but in city driving without violating the speed limit they perform their function perfectly.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Low price
• Quiet
• For a measured ride

• Are quickly erased
• Frequent braking and overheating reduce efficiency

See also:

• 10 best oils for Toyota RAV4