How to fix braking power low on Toyota Highlander? If you own a Toyota Highlander and have encountered the alarming “Braking Power Low” warning message, you’re not alone. This issue has plagued many Highlander owners, especially in recent model years like 2017-2019. When this warning appears, your Highlander’s braking performance is significantly reduced, which is a major safety concern that needs to be addressed immediately.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the causes of the Braking Power Low warning on the Toyota Highlander and provide step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix the underlying issues.
We’ll also compare the problem across different model years and answer frequently asked questions.
Common Causes of Braking Power Low on Toyota Highlander
There are several potential causes of the Braking Power Low warning on a Toyota Highlander. Some of the most common include:
1. Faulty Brake Booster Vacuum Pump
The brake booster vacuum pump is responsible for providing the vacuum needed for the brake booster to function properly. If the pump fails, the brake booster won’t have enough vacuum, resulting in reduced braking power.
This is a particularly common issue on 2017-2019 Highlander models. Toyota even issued a technical service bulletin (TSB-0077-19) acknowledging the problem and extending the warranty coverage for the brake booster vacuum pump to 10 years or 150,000 miles.
2. Leaking Brake Booster
A leaking brake booster can also cause the Braking Power Low warning. If there are any cracks or damage to the booster, it won’t be able to maintain the necessary vacuum for proper operation.
Inspect the brake booster for any visible damage or leaks. If you spot any issues, the booster will need to be replaced.
3. Faulty Master Cylinder
The master cylinder is responsible for converting the force applied to the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure. If the master cylinder is damaged or worn, it may not be able to generate enough pressure, leading to reduced braking power.
Look for signs of leaking brake fluid around the master cylinder. If you notice any fluid, the master cylinder will need to be replaced.
4. Air in the Brake Lines
If air gets into the brake lines, it can cause a spongy or soft brake pedal and reduced braking power. This usually happens if the brake fluid level is low or during brake service when the system isn’t properly bled.
To fix this issue, the brake system will need to be bled to remove any air bubbles. This is a job best left to a professional mechanic.
5. Faulty ABS Module
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) module monitors wheel speed and adjusts brake pressure to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking. If the ABS module fails, it can cause the Braking Power Low warning.
Diagnosing an ABS issue requires specialized equipment. If you suspect a problem with the ABS, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Diagnosing Braking Power Low on Toyota Highlander
If the Braking Power Low warning appears on your Highlander, follow these steps to diagnose the issue:
- Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir. If it’s low, top it off with the recommended brake fluid and see if the warning goes away.
- Visually inspect the brake booster and master cylinder for any signs of damage or leaking fluid. If you spot any issues, the faulty component will need to be replaced.
- With the engine running, press the brake pedal several times. If the pedal feels spongy or soft, there may be air in the brake lines. The system will need to be bled.
- Using a scan tool, check for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the braking system. If any codes are present, they can help pinpoint the faulty component.
- If the issue persists, it’s best to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can perform further diagnostic tests.
Fixing Braking Power Low on Toyota Highlander
The specific repair procedure for the Braking Power Low warning will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some common fixes:
Replacing the Brake Booster Vacuum Pump
If the brake booster vacuum pump is faulty, it will need to be replaced. This is a complex job that requires removing the intake manifold to access the pump.
On 2017-2019 Highlanders, the part number for the updated pump is 44610-0E120. The job typically takes 4-6 hours and can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 at a dealership.
Replacing the Brake Booster
If the brake booster is leaking, it will need to be replaced. This is also a labor-intensive job that requires removing the master cylinder and several other components.
The part number for the brake booster will vary depending on your Highlander’s specific model and year. Expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,000 for parts and labor.
Replacing the Master Cylinder
If the master cylinder is leaking or damaged, it will need to be replaced. This job is usually less complex than replacing the booster and can often be done in 2-3 hours.
Again, the part number will depend on your specific Highlander model. Budget around $400 to $600 for the job.
Bleeding the Brake System
If there’s air in the brake lines, the system will need to be bled. This involves opening the bleeder valves on each brake caliper and allowing the air to escape while fresh fluid is pumped through the system.
Bleeding the brakes is a two-person job and requires a specific procedure to ensure all the air is removed. If you’re not confident in your ability to bleed the brakes properly, leave this job to a professional.
Preventing Braking Power Low on Toyota Highlander
To help prevent the Braking Power Low warning from appearing on your Highlander, follow these tips:
- Have your braking system inspected regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Address any issues promptly.
- Check your brake fluid level monthly and top it off if needed. Use only the recommended fluid for your Highlander.
- If you notice any changes in brake pedal feel or performance, have the system checked out immediately. Catching problems early can often prevent more costly repairs down the road.
- If your Highlander has over 100,000 miles, consider preemptively replacing wear-and-tear items like the brake booster vacuum pump and master cylinder before they fail.
Braking Power Low Across Toyota Highlander Model Years
While the Braking Power Low warning can occur on any Highlander model, some years seem to be more prone to the issue than others. Here’s a breakdown of the most common complaints by model year:
| Model Year | Number of Complaints | Most Common Cause |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 17 | Brake booster vacuum pump |
| 2018 | 35 | Brake booster vacuum pump |
| 2019 | 12 | Brake booster vacuum pump |
| 2020 | 6 | Various |
| 2021 | 3 | Various |
As you can see, the 2017-2019 model years have the highest number of complaints, with the faulty brake booster vacuum pump being the most common culprit. If you own one of these models, it’s a good idea to have the pump inspected and replaced if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my Highlander with the Braking Power Low warning?
No, it’s not safe to drive with the Braking Power Low warning. Your braking performance will be significantly reduced, increasing the risk of a crash. Pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Is the Braking Power Low issue covered under warranty?
It depends on your Highlander’s model year and mileage. For 2017-2019 models, Toyota has extended the warranty on the brake booster vacuum pump to 10 years or 150,000 miles. For other model years or issues, coverage will depend on your specific warranty terms.
How much does it cost to fix Braking Power Low on a Highlander?
The cost to fix the Braking Power Low warning can vary widely depending on the underlying cause and where you have the work done. Expect to pay anywhere from $400 for a simple master cylinder replacement to $1,500 or more for a brake booster vacuum pump replacement at a dealership.
Can I replace the brake booster vacuum pump myself?
Replacing the brake booster vacuum pump is a complex job that requires removing the intake manifold and several other components. Unless you have advanced mechanical skills and the necessary tools, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.
How often should I have my Highlander’s brakes inspected?
It’s a good idea to have your Highlander’s brakes inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you notice any changes in brake performance or warning lights, have the system checked out immediately.
Conclusion
The Braking Power Low warning on your Toyota Highlander is not something to be ignored. It indicates a serious issue with your braking system that needs to be addressed promptly to ensure your safety on the road.
By understanding the common causes of this warning and knowing how to diagnose and fix the underlying issues, you can get your Highlander back to peak braking performance. Remember to have your brakes inspected regularly and address any problems as soon as they arise to help prevent more costly repairs down the road.
If you’re not confident in your ability to diagnose and fix your Highlander’s braking system, don’t hesitate to seek out the help of a qualified mechanic. With proper care and maintenance, your Highlander’s brakes should provide reliable stopping power for many miles to come.