Brake squealing/ stuck caliper

[Zee]

Would apprrciate some orientation to the '96 Avalon front brake system.

While driving to replicate some brake squeal which has developed, I hear a steady but faint squeal after letting up on the brakes.

I figure a caliper piston is sticking.

Not being familiar with Toyota front brakes (I know Volvo/Girling/ATE really good!), what will I be seeing this morning as I get my head in there to diagnose the problem?

What likely things will cause this? What general maintenance or adjustment tips do you have?

[kocho]

Have you checked the brake pads thickness lately? Squeal without the brake pedal applied is usually a sign that your brake pads are worn.

You may also want to apply some thick grease on the back of the pads to quiet them down (most auto parts stores sell this, or some other gunky brake quieter compounds).

If the Caliper is indeed sticking, then you may need to lubricate the bolts that hold the floating parts in place. If this does not help and it remains stuck, you may need to rebuild it - there is a $30 caliper repair kit from Toyota and you may need to smooth the cilinder on the inside. Or get a new caliper from a junk yard for about $50 USD.

Originally posted by Zee
Would apprrciate some orientation to the '96 Avalon front brake system.

While driving to replicate some brake squeal which has developed, I hear a steady but faint squeal after letting up on the brakes.

I figure a caliper piston is sticking.

Not being familiar with Toyota front brakes (I know Volvo/Girling/ATE really good!), what will I be seeing this morning as I get my head in there to diagnose the problem?

What likely things will cause this? What general maintenance or adjustment tips do you have?