How to Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors on a 2018–2023 Toyota Camry (8th Gen)

Is your Camry making a squeaking noise when braking? Or maybe it just hit that mileage where a brake check is due?

This guide walks you through how to inspect the front brake pads and rotors on a Toyota Camry 8th generation (2018–2023). Whether you're a weekend DIYer or just looking to understand what your mechanic should be doing, this is for you.

🔧 Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes
📦 Tools Needed: Lug wrench, jack and jack stands, socket set, flathead screwdriver, flashlight

 

 

 

Step-by-Step Brake Inspection Guide

1. Safely Lift the Vehicle
Loosen the front lug nuts slightly before lifting.

Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle from the front pinch weld or frame point.

Place jack stands securely under the frame for safety.

Now fully remove the front wheels.

[Insert photo: Camry with front tire removed and placed safely to the side]

2. Inspect the Brake Pads
Look through the caliper window or remove the caliper for a better view.

What to Look For:
Pad Thickness: If less than 4mm, consider replacing.

Uneven Wear: One pad thinner than the other may indicate a sticking caliper pin.

Glazing or Cracking: Shiny, cracked surfaces reduce performance.

 [Insert photo: close-up of brake pad with ruler or caliper gauge]

 

3. Inspect the Brake Rotor (Disc)
Check for:
Scoring or Grooves: Light surface scratches are normal; deep grooves are not.

Heat Spots: Bluish tint indicates overheating.

Rust Edge Lip: A noticeable ridge along the outer edge may indicate wear.

Use your fingernail to lightly run across the disc surface — feel for ridges or pits.

 [Insert photo: rotor surface with marked scoring or hot spots]

🔧 4. Check for Rotor Runout (Optional)
If you suspect vibration while braking:

Use a dial indicator to measure lateral runout.

Toyota Camry specs: ideally ≤ 0.05 mm (~0.002 in)

📸 [Insert photo: dial indicator set up on rotor]

🧼 5. Reassemble and Torque Correctly
Clean rotor and caliper surfaces if needed.

Reinstall the wheels.

Torque the lug nuts to manufacturer spec (usually ~76 ft-lbs or 103 Nm).

📸 [Insert photo: torque wrench in action]

✅ Final Tips & Maintenance Intervals
Inspect brakes every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or at every tire rotation.

Replace pads when <3mm or when squealers make noise.

Rotors usually last 2–3 pad changes unless damaged.

🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I drive with worn brake pads?
A: Technically yes, but it’s unsafe. Worn pads can damage rotors, increase braking distance, and even lead to brake failure.

Q: Should I replace both sides even if one is worn?
A: Always replace pads (and ideally rotors) in pairs — left and right — for balanced braking.

🏁 Conclusion
Checking your own brakes isn't just empowering — it's also smart. Whether you're saving on mechanic bills or doing it out of curiosity, knowing how to inspect your Camry’s brake system ensures you're staying safe on the road.

Next up: Want to learn how to replace those brake pads and rotors yourself? Stay tuned for our full DIY brake replacement guide.