How to Replace Rear Brakes 2011-2020 Toyota Sienna

3 min read 1 month ago
Published on Jun 22, 2025 This response is partially generated with the help of AI. It may contain inaccuracies.

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the rear brakes on a 2011-2020 Toyota Sienna. Regular brake maintenance is essential for vehicle safety, as worn brakes can lead to decreased performance and potential hazards. In this step-by-step guide, you'll learn how to replace both rear brake pads and rotors effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear

Before starting the brake replacement, ensure you have all the necessary tools and safety equipment:

  • Flat Blade Screwdriver
  • Pocket Screwdriver
  • Pry Bar
  • 14mm Socket
  • 17mm Socket
  • 21mm Socket
  • Ratchet
  • Torque Wrench
  • Cloth Rags
  • Copper Anti-Seize
  • Gloves
  • Liquid Thread Locker
  • Safety Glasses
  • Silicone Brake Parts Lubricant
  • Floor Jack
  • Jack Stands
  • Pick
  • Wheel Chocks
  • Wire Brush

Tip

: Using gloves and safety glasses is crucial to protect yourself from debris and chemicals.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

  1. Park the Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the ignition.
  2. Secure the Vehicle: Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels to prevent rolling.
  3. Lift the Rear: Use a floor jack to raise the rear of the vehicle and support it with jack stands.

Step 3: Remove the Rear Wheels

  1. Loosen Lug Nuts: Use the 21mm socket and ratchet to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
  2. Remove Lug Nuts: Once the vehicle is secured on jack stands, fully remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper

  1. Locate Caliper Bolts: Identify the bolts holding the brake caliper in place (typically 14mm or 17mm).
  2. Remove Bolts: Use the appropriate socket to remove the caliper bolts.
  3. Detach Caliper: Carefully slide off the caliper and support it with a hangar or a bungee cord to avoid stress on the brake line.

Step 5: Replace Brake Pads

  1. Remove Old Pads: Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper bracket.
  2. Inspect Hardware: Check the caliper bracket and hardware for wear; clean with a wire brush if necessary.
  3. Install New Pads: Apply silicone brake parts lubricant to the back of the new brake pads and slide them into place.

Step 6: Replace Brake Rotors

  1. Remove Old Rotor: If the rotor is loose, remove the retaining screws (if applicable) and pull off the old rotor.
  2. Install New Rotor: Place the new rotor onto the hub and secure it with any screws you removed.
  3. Clean Surface: Wipe the rotor surface with a cloth rag to remove any protective oil.

Step 7: Reattach the Brake Caliper

  1. Compress Caliper Piston: Use a brake caliper tool to compress the piston back into the caliper housing.
  2. Reattach Caliper: Slide the caliper back over the new pads and rotor, and tighten the caliper bolts securely.

Step 8: Reinstall the Wheels

  1. Put Wheels Back On: Place the rear wheels back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  2. Lower the Vehicle: Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
  3. Tighten Lug Nuts: Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

Conclusion

Replacing the rear brakes on your Toyota Sienna is a manageable task with the right tools and careful attention to detail. Always remember to check your brakes regularly for signs of wear and replace them as needed. For further vehicle maintenance, consider exploring other tutorials or resources relevant to your vehicle. Happy driving!