'01 Camry with front caliper issues.

[c@mry]

Ok, on my '01 Camry, I was told the last time I had the brakes done that there was a problem with my caliper. I was told the front left side is wearing down the pad too much. I brought the car in for squeking noises and grinding sounds and when they took the pads out, the left side was worn thin and the right had normal wear.

I didn't take it too seriously, but now I can feel the grindng and the squeking starting.

Has anyone had this problem?

Can I fix the caliper or should I buy a new one? I intend to do this job myself, but can I fix the caliper myself (note I am not a mechanic with a shop)?

If I have to get new ones (calipers), do I have to get both front calipers or can I do just one? I figure both, but I'm asking anyway.

Also, according to the haynes manual, I should replace ALL the brake pads if I replace any. Is this true? I can't just replace the front pads only?

Oh, should I upgrade do a better brake set?

Thanks for any advice or help.

[ToyotaGuy50]

When you say the left side is worn thin are the pads worn evenly?

Are the inner and outer pads on the left front even in wear? If it is then your left front brake is probably dragging. Have your master cylinder pushrod adjustment checked. If it is off it will cause the l/f brake to drag when your brakes are not engaged. I've seen this happen many times.

If the inner or outer pad is worn more than the other then your caliper is sticking and should be overhauled or replaced.

It's always a good idea to overhaul or replace both front calipers at the same time.
When they say replace all brake pads they mean on one axle-(all front or all rear)

[c@mry]

Thanks ToyotaGuy50, the mechanic only showed me one pad and I do not know if it was the outer or inner. All I know is I was amazed, there was almost nothing left. When I take the pads out I will check if they are worn evenly or not.

Is this 'cylinder pushrod adjustment check' something I can do myself or is it a big job (I'll be checking the manual after this)? How much does something like that usually cost?


Thanks for the info on the pad replacement. No, actaully thanks for all the info.