Is there a difference between 2001-03 brakes and 2004-06?
#1
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I have been wondering for some time now, is there a difference between 2001-03 braking systems and 2004-06 braking systems?
I know that they both use the same pads and rotors but there is a difference in feel.
Little back story: I drove my dad's 2004 which has nice firm braking, but then i drive my 2002 or even my brother's 2001 and it has a sort of squishyness to them.
The 2004 and 2001 both have the exact same pads and rotors, we changed all pads and rotors weeks apart from each other, we even flushed both systems with new fluid.
They still have a feel difference. Know my question to y'all is: Is there a difference between 2001-03 brakes and 2004-06? or is something wrong with the 01-03s?
I know that they both use the same pads and rotors but there is a difference in feel.
Little back story: I drove my dad's 2004 which has nice firm braking, but then i drive my 2002 or even my brother's 2001 and it has a sort of squishyness to them.
The 2004 and 2001 both have the exact same pads and rotors, we changed all pads and rotors weeks apart from each other, we even flushed both systems with new fluid.
They still have a feel difference. Know my question to y'all is: Is there a difference between 2001-03 brakes and 2004-06? or is something wrong with the 01-03s?
#2
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I've never had the privilege of driving an '04-'06 but my 01's brakes used to be not so good. I don't know if their braking components are different but I doubt Toyota changed it during the facelift.
Getting fresh DOT4 braking fluid in my car and bleeding the air out of the system made a big difference. Squishiness in the pedal is a symptom of air in lines, have it checked out next time you're in the shop.
Getting fresh DOT4 braking fluid in my car and bleeding the air out of the system made a big difference. Squishiness in the pedal is a symptom of air in lines, have it checked out next time you're in the shop.
#6
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#7
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Well, that's great you've experienced no difference - "so far." Dot 3 brake fluid is the minimum Department of Transportation standard for brake fluid. Since that "Dot 3" brake fluid reservoir cap was installed, Dot 3 brake fluid has largely been replaced with the superior qualities of Dot 4 fluid. Dot 3 and Dot 4 are comparably priced as well. With the enhanced protection afforded by Dot 4 fluid, why would you not be certain to use it, especially in the most important function in a car, your brakes? ![Uhh...](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/1387914497.gif)
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#8
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The 06 LS 430 is specd using DOT 3 brake fluid. Not sure if you know, but many manufacturers still spec DOT 3... This is not a case where which one is better but which fluid is specd for the LS 430 application. Dot 4 and 5, which are not compatible(with each other), are for higher heat applications which are for performance/racing applications. My Jaguar V12 specs Dot 4 because of the under hood heat issues. The Lexus LS 430 does not have this problem. Go to "bob is the oil guy" forum and you will find a lot of good/accurate info on most automotive fluids.
The V12 requires Dot 4 because the vehicle may be driven at high speeds requiring heavy use of brakes - the calipers and rotor get so hot and the heat transfers to the brake lines and brake fluid at the calipers. Under hood heat doesn't come close to the extreme temps at the calipers after heavy use.
This discussion should serve as a reminder to flush the brake fluid at regular intervals even if the brakes "feel" fine. Moisture eventually gets into the brake fluid.
#9
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I know about brake fluid... LOL. I just believe that most people here would be better served using the spec fluid.
Tom, you are 100% correct with flushing brake fluid at regular intervals.. I would bet most people do not do this.
Tom, you are 100% correct with flushing brake fluid at regular intervals.. I would bet most people do not do this.
Last edited by XJSFan; 10-13-14 at 10:11 AM.
#10
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Valvoline offers brake fluid that is DOT 3 & 4 compatible. DOT 4 brake fluid is compatible with DOT 3 spec vehicles since it not only meets but it exceeds the specs of DOT 3.
#11
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Now to see if the 2 are compatible with each other.
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