To change the rear brake pads on a Toyota RAV4, put the electronic parking brake into its service or maintenance mode (the manual explains how), lift and support the car on jack stands, remove the wheel and caliper, replace the pads and hardware, retract the piston as the manual directs, then refit the caliper and wheel to the specified torque. Brakes are a safety item, so use a shop if you are not confident. Related: how to change the front brake pads on a Toyota RAV4.
How to Prepare Your Toyota RAV4 for Brake Pad Replacement and Troubleshooting Common Issues
Work on level ground, chock the front wheels, and loosen the wheel nuts before lifting. Support the car on jack stands, never on a jack alone. Buy pads made for your model year.
Must-Have Tools for Changing Your Rear Brake Pads
- Jack, jack stands and a lug wrench
- Socket set and a torque wrench
- A tool to retract the caliper piston, as the manual describes
- Brake cleaner, brake grease and gloves
Steps to Deactivate the Electronic Parking Brake
The rear calipers have an electric parking brake motor. Put it in service mode as the owner manual describes before you push the piston back, otherwise you may damage it.
Removing the Wheel and Accessing the Rear Caliper
Remove the wheel, then the caliper bolts, and hang the caliper from the spring, not by the brake hose.
How to Change the Rear Brake Pads on a Toyota RAV4 Step by Step
- Remove the old pads and note how they sit.
- Clean and lubricate the contact points of the bracket.
- Retract the piston.
- Fit the new pads and hardware.
Properly Reassembling the Caliper and Reinstalling the Wheel
Refit the caliper and tighten the bolts to the torque in the service manual. Refit the wheel and tighten the nuts to the specified torque in a star pattern.
Testing Your Brakes After Installation and Final Safety Checks
Take the car out of service mode, pump the brake pedal until it is firm, and check the parking brake. Test the brakes at low speed before you drive normally, and check the wheels again after a short drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Replace My Toyota Brake Pads Myself?
Some owners do, with the right tools and the manual. If you are unsure, use a shop.
Can I Replace Rear Brake Pads Myself?
Yes, if you can put the electronic parking brake in service mode and follow the procedure. Otherwise use a shop.
How to Replace Rear Brake Pads With Electric Parking Brake?
Put the parking brake in service mode, change the pads, retract the piston as directed, then return the system to normal mode.
How to Put Electronic Parking Brake in Service Mode on a Toyota?
The method depends on the model year, and the owner manual gives the steps for your car. Do not skip this step.
Conclusion
To change the rear brake pads on a Toyota RAV4, use service mode, use jack stands, and torque everything to specification.
