Brake Noise - 04 Avensis

[Red Earl]

Hi,

Ive recently purchased a Toyota Avensis 1.8 T3S (04 plate) and noted that when coming to a slow stop I can hear a low pitched whooshing sound coming from the brakes. The dealer was very understanding and as the car had done 43k suggested they change the discs and pads under warranty. They have done this on both the front and rear now but the noise can still be heard, now mainly from the front. Very impressed with their help so far, especially as I know how much this would have cost me to have done outside of any warranty.

Im now beginning to think that the noise im hearing may be inherent in Toyota cars. Ive previously only had cars from Vauxhall and have never heard any noise like this before, so wonder if its a known and accepted issue. Perhaps the sound proofing is different, or maybe as this car has alloy wheels, they create a more acoustic noise inside the vehicle? (Im a bit lost to find an acceptable explanation to be honest) It may just be the pads engaging on the discs but as I said, not something ive heard in any previous (non Toyota) cars ive owned.

Can any of you other Avensis owners hear this noise when you brake slowly? Im reluctant to go back to the dealer until im sure this is actually a problem ?

Any constructive help will be much appreciated.

Thanks

[gazza1286]

This 'whooshing' noise? Are you describing an 'air escaping type' noise?? There could be a problem with the brake servo. This is the device which assists braking by a vacuum from the intake manifold. Is it possible that the seals/hoses have failed? Maybe worth a mention to your dealer.

[Muarrif]

I have a Toyota Avensis T-3S (Late 2003 Model) and I am not aware of any such noise even though my break pads are nearing replacement.

[Red Earl]

I have a Toyota Avensis T-3S (Late 2003 Model) and I am not aware of any such noise even though my break pads are nearing replacement.

Could be air, but to be honest I just dont know. I hear it most when coming to a stop from say 10mph to a standstill, the noise is continuous while the brake is being depressed. Best I can describe it as is if you blow from your mouth a deep continuous sound, then thats as close as I can get. Doesnt seem to affect brake performance though and as discs and pads have been changed I doubt they are the cause. Are there any tests I can do to pinpoint the cause before I take it back to the dealer? or has anyone got any other ideas as to the cause on here?

[gazza1286]

Yes there is a simple test fo the servo.

With the engine switched off, pump the brake pedal several times until it is firm. Keep the pedal depress and then start the engine. The pedal should then sag. if it doesn't there may be a fault in the srevo.

see:

http://www.haynes.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/...catalogId=10001

[Red Earl]

Thanks, ive done that and everything seems to work fine. I think ill just have to accept it as being a normal noise that this car makes.

[uumode]

I don't have this wooshing noise on my Avensis

[SteveUK260]

I myself got Toyota Avensis SE 1.8 1999, i hear screaming noise from brakes when i brake, went to see mechanic and he said brakes are good, and brake pads will last me another 8000 miles, he said its the lining on brake pads, and that there is no point in changing it, so if you get same problem it might be that, he said the only way to get rid of the screaming noise would be to change brake pads completely.