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2003 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4dr V6 Auto (Natl)

2003 Toyota 4Runner
Trim Info:
Rear Wheel Drive, 4 Door Limited, Sport Utility Vehicle
18 mpg city / 21 mpg hwy
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February 5, 2013, 5:29 pm

Mel T
 

Question: brakes lock up at slow speed

Front Brakes lock while pulling into parking space or from a parking lot into traffic...never while going fast. After 6 miles, the front brakes feel hot to the touch and smell. No lights appear on dash. 4-runner has 260,000 miles and just purchased. a little gas does nothing but push it forward a few inches and it locks again. I am depressing the pedal, not letting the engine stop the car. I have been told either collapsed brake hoses, U joints, or driveshaft. Shop mechanics don't know. If I put it in reverse it will release but sometimes goes back to locking up in drive. Wheels totally stop. Hope for help. thank you!


February 18, 2013, 4:19 pm

Elizabeth K
Expert Mechanic

It sounds like the mechanics you've been taking it to don't know what they're talking about. If the brakes are hot (compared to the other side? compared to a different vehicle?) then there is a problem with the brakes. If it's both, it could be the master cylinder. If it's one side, it could be the brake line or the caliper.

The U-joints and driveline affect the rear wheels, not the front. This is a simple problem, you just need to take it to a qualified mechanic.


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