I have a 89 4-runner. I had a brake repair, pads and rotors 1.5 years ago. When I picked up truck, the mechanic said he could not bleed the brake and that I need to pump the pedal at least once to build up pressure to brake. So far, I have been doing that. Recently, on an incline stopped, I noticed that the brake pedal slowly loosing pressure. Would bleeding the brake system solve this problem or do I need to look for other cause?

Second problem, at the same time as the brake repair, the mechanic also replaced the tie rods. Now, some 10,000 miles later, I just noticed a clicking sound from the front, only when moving. What is the cause of this problem and do I need to fix it ASAP or can I wait. Thanks.

 

For the brakes, you need to replace the caliper/wheel cylinder with the seized bleeder bolt so that they can be bled. Losing pressure is due to a leak somewhere in the system. Check everything for leaking fluid. If it's dry everywhere then the master cylinder is leaking internally. Basically the seals can't hold pressure and your foot slowly drops to the floor. Once any leaks have been resolved and the system bled, you should have proper firm pedal feel and reliable brakes.

We need more symptoms for the ticking. Increase with speed? Under load? Under braking? When turning? Does it do it with 4x4 engaged AND disengaged? Manual hubs? Check for simple things first, such as a torn CV boot, bad axle, stick caught in undercarraige, maybe just a pebble stuck in the tread of a tire.

 

fwiw, i would seriously find a new mechanic. any "mechanic" who does a brake job, doesn't bleed the brakes, and tells you to pump the peddle is a danger.

find someone else!

 

X2! The sinking pedal is #1 symptom of a tired master cylinder. They're easy to replace yourself!

 

Some people aren't willing to buy a new caliper when the bleeder bolt is seized. I've dealt with customers like this at the motorcycle shop I work at. They want the brakes on their 86 TRX to work but aren't willing to buy calipers for something they pulled out of a barn. If you're lucky the brakes use a banjo bolt and you can use that as a bleeder. Just rotate the caliper so the bolt is at the top. But if it uses a threaded hose fitting there is nothing you can do to bleed it.