Checks, in order
- When does it make noiseNote if it squeals at light braking, only when cold or damp, or all the time. Noise that fades after a few stops is usually surface film.easy $ · under about $50
- Ask about a bulletinAsk the dealer if a brake noise bulletin applies to your VIN. If it does, repairs are normally done under warranty.easy $ · under about $50
- Visual pad checkLook through the wheel spokes at pad thickness. A new truck should have plenty, so very thin pads suggest something else is wrong.easy $ · under about $50
- Look for debris or stuck hardwareA stone between pad and rotor or a binding slide can make noise. Remove a wheel and check, but avoid changing parts while the warranty applies.medium $ · under about $50
- Pulsation or pullA steering wheel shake only when braking points to rotor condition. Have the dealer measure runout and thickness.medium $$ · about $50 to $500
Applies to: 6th generation 4Runner, 2025 and newer, with the 2.4L turbocharged i-FORCE and the i-FORCE MAX hybrid, both with the 8-speed automatic. This is a new platform with little long-term history, so most entries are general symptoms; when the truck is under warranty, the dealer is the right first stop.
Tools and parts for these checks
Links below are Amazon affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, toyotadata earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Confirm fitment for your exact truck before you order.
| ITEM | USED FOR | BUY |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | Replacing worn or glazed pads | Shop on Amazon |
| Genuine Toyota DOT 3 brake fluid | Flushing old fluid; confirm DOT 3 on your reservoir cap | Shop on Amazon |
| One-person brake bleeder kit | Bleeding air out of the lines | Shop on Amazon |
| Dial indicator with magnetic base | Measuring rotor runout | Shop on Amazon |
More 6th Gen 4Runner problems
- Something is wrong on a new 4Runner: warranty, recalls and where to start (Body & Electrical)
- Digital gauge cluster blank, missing speedometer, or warning lights not showing at startup (Body & Electrical)
- Clunk or abrupt shift, especially 1st to 2nd, or hesitation pulling away (Transmission)
- Hybrid won't go to READY, or dead 12 V battery in the i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid System)
- Won't start or crank on the 2.4L turbo (non-hybrid) (Starting & Charging)
- Check engine light on, with or without a code (Engine)
All 14 6th Gen 4Runner symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →
General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.