Toyota Matrix How Can I Replace Brake Pads & Rotors On A Toyota Matrix
Posted in Brake Discs & Pads | Asked on Sep 3, 2010
I own a 2005 Toyota Matrix. One of the front wheels (I think), on the drivers side, is “singing” (squeak-squeak-squeak) while driving. It is most apparent when I drive along a wall or highway median divider, and is getting louder and louder. I assume that this is because the brake bad is worn down to the little wire which is designed to tell me to fix my brakes.
A while back, my wife drove about 40 miles with the parking brake on until it was smoking, and the problem started soon after that- however, it doesn’t sound like the rear drum brake, it sounds like the front wheel. Not sure if these are related.
Any insight as to what the problem is and how I can fix it myself would be greatly appreciate and rewarded with best answer and five stars.
After a few drive-bys, I am certain that it is the front left rotor. And no, it is not the AWD model. I did have the parking brake looked at by Sears, and they said that it was just a little worn from the mishap. So I am assuming that it is the front left rotor or pad.
There are 2 Answers
Replace the front brake pads
First off, if you are going to get your pads/rotors replaced, its in your best interests (if you dont have some past experience in this kind of thing) that you bring it to a certified mechanic…..the lines should be bleeded and the calipers needs to be opened the right way or else they can be damaged, and then youre REALLY looking at a large bill from Toyota!
In regards to the noise, its tough to detect where its coming from, but if your Matrix is the model with front disk/rear drum brakes, then your mishap with the emergency/parking brake should get looked at. It might need replacement. In my history, the parking brake has always been attached to the rear drum brakes and was a seperate pad / assembly, but cars can all be different (mind you we’re comparing a Ford to a Toyota….2 totally different animals!)
To be most cost-effective, you might want to bring your Matrix to a place that will do a free brake inspection. If they tell you there’s life on the pads and rotors and do not need replacement, then the sqeek could be something different, like a wheel bearing, or something in the AWD system (if yours is one of those).
Best of luck!