Toyota Highlander Disc Brake Pad Replacement Guide (2014-2020)
Choosing the right brake pads for your Highlander is crucial for safety and performance; here’s what you need to know.
- A common issue is front brake vibration, addressed by Toyota TSB T-SB-0072-18; replacing pads and rotors together often solves this.
- The original pads are made by Advics and Akebono; buying these aftermarket brands ensures OEM-level quality, often for less money.
- For daily driving, Akebono ProACT ceramic pads are highly recommended by owners for their quiet, low-dust performance.
- If you tow or live in a hilly area, consider upgrading to a performance kit like Powerstop Z36 to improve heat dissipation and prevent brake fade.
Symptoms of Failing Brake Pads
Your Highlander will give you clear signals when the brake pads are nearing the end of their life. Ignoring these signs can lead to more expensive repairs, like replacing the brake rotors. The most common warning sign is a high-pitched squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This sound comes from a small metal tab called a wear indicator, which is designed to contact the rotor when the pad material is low. If you hear a grinding noise, it means the pad material is completely gone, and metal is grinding against metal. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
Known Issue: Front Brake Vibration (Shudder)
Many 2014-2019 Highlander owners have reported a vibration or shudder from the front brakes, especially during light braking at highway speeds. This is often mistaken for "warped rotors." Toyota acknowledged this with Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) T-SB-0072-18. 🎬 Watch this video to understand and fix Toyota brake vibration. The issue is typically caused by uneven brake pad deposits on the rotor surface from heat. The TSB involves replacing the front pads and rotors with updated parts. If you experience this, choosing a high-quality aftermarket pad or the updated OEM parts can solve the problem.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
The original factory (OEM) brake pads on your Highlander are very high quality, typically made by top-tier Japanese brands like Advics or Akebono. This means you can buy these specific brands in the aftermarket and get performance that is identical, or sometimes even better, than the pads you would buy at a dealership. Aftermarket pads offer a wider variety of choices to match your driving style and budget.
Pad Tiers for Your Highlander:
1. OEM-Equivalent Brands:
- Advics & Akebono: Since these companies make the original pads for Toyota, their aftermarket products are a safe and reliable choice. Many owners recommend Akebono's ProACT line for its quiet operation, low dust, and smooth stopping power, making it a top choice for daily driving.
- Bosch: The Bosch QuietCast line is another popular option that provides performance very similar to the original factory pads, with a focus on quiet, clean operation.
Pro Tip: Buying aftermarket pads from an OEM supplier like Advics or Akebono often gets you the same quality as the dealer part, but usually includes the necessary hardware (shims and clips) in the box, saving you a separate purchase.
🎬 See how to replace your front pads and rotors step-by-step.2. Daily Driver & Value Brands:
- Raybestos & Centric: These brands are well-respected in the industry. The Raybestos Element3 (EHT) and Centric Posi-Quiet or OE Elite lines offer excellent performance for everyday use and are a great balance of quality and price.
- Wagner: Wagner's ThermoQuiet and OEX lines are solid choices that have been trusted by mechanics for years, offering dependable stopping for a reasonable price.
3. Performance & Heavy-Duty Brands:
- Powerstop: If you frequently tow, drive in mountainous areas, or want a firmer pedal feel to combat the brake vibration issue, a Powerstop Z23 or Z36 Truck & Tow kit is a popular upgrade. These kits often include drilled and slotted rotors to help dissipate heat, but be aware they can sometimes produce more dust or noise than OEM-style pads.
- Hawk & EBC Brakes: These brands specialize in performance friction. Pads like EBC Green Stuff or Hawk's HPS are for drivers who prioritize stopping power and are willing to accept potential trade-offs like more dust.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Pad Set (Front or Rear) | $27 - $200 |
| New OEM Pad Set (Front or Rear) | $60 - $110 |
| Shop Labor (Per Axle) | $150 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brake pads for my Highlander?
For most drivers, Akebono ProACT or Advics OE pads are the best choice. They offer the same quiet, smooth performance as the original factory pads because they are made by the same companies. If you tow or want more bite, consider a Powerstop Z23 or Z36 kit.
Should I replace my rotors with my pads?
It is highly recommended. If your Highlander is experiencing the common brake vibration issue, you should absolutely replace the rotors. Even if not, installing new pads on old, worn rotors can lead to noise, poor performance, and reduced pad life. For best results, always install new pads and rotors at the same time.
🎬 Follow this guide to replace your rear brake pads and rotors.What's the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic pads?
Ceramic pads, like what your Highlander likely came with, are known for being very quiet and producing little dust, making them great for daily driving. Semi-metallic pads contain metal fibers that help dissipate heat better, offering stronger performance under heavy use (like towing), but they are often noisier and dustier.
Was there a recall on 2014-2020 Highlander brakes?
There was no recall for the brake pads themselves. However, a recall was issued for a small number of 2018 Highlander models related to a brake booster vacuum pump that could fail and cause a loss of power brake assist. There was also a Technical Service Bulletin (T-SB-0072-18) for brake vibration on 2014-2019 models, which is a known issue but not a safety recall.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 04465-0E010 04465-48150 04465-45040 04466-0E010 04466-0E020 04466-02430
The 2014-2020 Highlander uses disc brakes on all four wheels. The front and rear pad sets are different and must be purchased separately. Most models came from the factory with ceramic brake pads.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Toyota Highlander: