Introduction
Toyota Tundra is a popular pickup truck introduced by Toyota in the year 1999. It was the first full-size pickup truck to be produced by a Japanese Manufacturer in the USA. Since its introduction back in 1999, the truck has been through a lot of changes in terms of form and functionality.
From its big engine, gearbox, suspension, brake pads to the design, tires, dimensions, interiors, and gadgetry- the Toyota Tundra in its latest avatar is an evolved machine. Through the years, Toyota has constantly updated the Tundra pickup truck in order to compete with other manufacturers, keep up with the latest trends, and, most importantly, comply with emission norms.
The latest 2021 Toyota Tundra pickup truck is a beefy, powerful pickup truck powered by a 5.7L V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. It has most of the conveniences that a large pickup truck offers. But what do you think should be a strong point on a truck with so much power and a gross weight of approximately 7000 lb? The answer is a strong and efficient braking mechanism.
For a large truck like the Toyota Tundra, suspension and brakes play a huge role in the way it behaves on and off the road. Especially if it has a trailer attached to it, while the factory suspension setup is adequate for the duties the Tundra can perform, a keen enthusiast may want to try technical trails and experiment with its handling. This may or may not demand a suspension system upgrade.
On the other hand, though, the brakes on the Toyota Tundra most likely will demand upgrades since the pickup truck can be put to various uses. Depending on the usage, factory-fitted brakes may not do the job as efficiently as brakes made of superior materials. Heavy load-bearing trailers, downhill braking, frequent braking in tight traffic conditions, and absence of engine breaking raise brake temperature often, leading to higher wear and tear of the brake pads.
Brake pads wear and tear at a faster rate in cities due to frequent use of the brakes. This wear and tear are even higher if the vehicle in question has an automatic transmission due to the absence of engine braking. The Toyota Tundra comes with an automatic transmission, so this is an important point to consider. This wear and tear of the brake pads are further multiplied if a trailer is attached to the back of the pickup truck since its adds to the overall weight. The brake pads, in this case, need to work harder under higher temperatures to stop the Tundra.
Given the above circumstances, braking can get more challenging in downhill conditions where more stopping power is needed to stop a large pickup truck like the Toyota Tundra. As a result, factory-fitted brake pads may not always prove to be the best choice to have on your Truck.
We’re here to help you suggest the best brake pads for your Toyota Tundra that would last longer and help you get maximum stopping power.
Best Brake Pads for the Toyota Tundra
1) Power Stop K2813-36 Front & Rear Z36 Truck and Tow Brake Kit
The Z36 Truck & Tow Performance Brake Kit uses stronger carbon-fiber ceramic materials to handle heavier loads under heavy braking. The brake pads fit well on the Toyota Tundra and provide superior stopping power, especially while towing/ hauling. The brake pads manage to brake so well that these are preferred by off-road enthusiasts too.
When you add weight to the Toyota Tundra by hauling a load, towing a trailer, or even by adding a larger wheel/tire combination, you change the standard operating conditions of your stock brake pads.
These standard operating conditions would most likely exceed the ability of the stock brake pads since the stock pads may not be designed to produce the kind of brake torque required to stop the Toyota Tundra with an excess weight attached to it.
The Truck and Tow brake kit include perfectly matched components designed to produce the brake torque that is needed due to the increase in wheel diameter or load. The brake pads included are built for almost any duty or test the Toyota Tundra would be subjected to. Apart from the superior brake pads, the Drilled & Slotted rotors would aid in reducing heat. This package includes one of the best brake pads for Toyota Tundra in the market.
Kit includes:
4 drilled and slotted brake rotors, Z36 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pad sets, installation hardware, and brake lube.
Pros:
- Power Stop K2813-36 Front & Rear Z36 Truck and Tow Brake Kit comes with Proprietary carbon-fiber ceramic materials that enhance the strength of a typical ceramic brake pad compound to manage heavier loads with ease.
- Low dust braking- vehicle 3rd party tests in Los Angeles show an average of 30% less dust versus OE brake pads, aiding in reduced wear
- An efficient cooling system through Drilled & Slotted performance rotors
- The package also includes stainless steel installation hardware and high-temperature ceramic brake lubricant
- The brake pads for Toyota Tundra are compatible with Toyota Tundra models from 2017-to 2021. They also fit other vehicles like Toyota Sequoia 2008-2021, Land Cruiser 2016-2021, and Lexus LX570 2007-2021
- Brake rotors are zinc plated for maximum protection against rust
- Dual-layer high temp rubberized shims insulate noise for virtually silent braking
- Bolt-on upgrade for rotors that come with OE tolerances
- Includes a 3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty
Cons :
- A few Toyota Tundra users have pointed out the lack of customer support from the Power Stop- manufacturers of the Truck and Tow brake kit.
The Power Stop brake pads are one of the best brake pads for Toyota Tundra.
2) Detroit Axle – Front Rear Disc Rotors, Ceramic Brake Pads (Drilled and Slotted Performance) Brake Kit
Detroit Axle is a leading global retailer and distributor of OE re-manufactured and new aftermarket auto parts for 30 years. This kit includes 100% ceramic brake pads that are known to have a better lifespan compared to metallic brake pads. These brake pads are generally smoother and quieter in their operations. Detroit Axle produces brake pads for Toyota Tundra and a few other cars from Toyota.
Apart from the best brake pad for the Toyota Tundra, the kit also includes front and rear drilled and slotted disc brake rotors that exceed OEM specifications and also provide up to 20% better stopping power when compared to standard rotors.
Kit Includes:
- 5-Lug Wheel Holes
- 2x Front Drilled and Slotted Disc Brake Rotors Set S-31482
- 2x Rear Drilled and Slotted Disc Brake Rotors Set – S-31483
- Front Ceramic Brake Pad w/Clip (Hardware Included) Set – P-1303
- Rear Ceramic Brake Pad w/Clip (Hardware Included) Set – P-1304
Pros:
- 100% ceramic brake pads that last longer than metallic brake pads
- Lower operating temperatures
- Smooth and quiet braking
- Zinc Dichromate Plating on rotors prevents rust
- 20% better braking compared to OE brake kits
- Comes with a 10-year warranty
- Easy to fit as dimensions are OEM specific
- Replacement For 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 Toyota Tundra and 2016, 2017, 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser
Cons:
- A few cases of the brakes squealing were reported by customers. This could also be attributed to incorrect installation procedures.
3) Power Stop CRK2813 Coated Brake Rotor & Ceramic Brake Pads- front & rear
Power Stop’s Geomet coated brake kit eliminates dust, prevents rust, and improves stopping power. The disc brake rotors are fully coated, including the vanes using GEOMET rust preventative coating, which protects against rust and corrosion without affecting the truck’s braking performance.
Ceramic disc brake pads are the best brake pad for Toyota Tundra as they pack great stopping power and leave behind no dust. The brake pads also feature dual-layer high-temperature rubberized shims that insulate noise for virtually silent braking.
Power Stop’s coated rotors are manufactured with True-Cast technology, resulting in a precision cast and precision machined product. The ceramic formula was validated through 3rd party vehicle tests in the USA.
Kit includes:
4 Coated Rotors, Ceramic Brake Pad Sets, Installation Hardware, and Brake Lube
Pros:
- A ceramic brake pad keeps the dust off the wheels free and improves braking efficiency.
- Geomet Coated rotors help maintain the new car’s look
- Brake rotors are fully coated, including the vanes, to extend rotor life
- Geomet coated rotors prevent rust and improve stopping power
- Dual-layer high temp rubberized shims insulate noise for virtually silent braking
Cons:
- These brake pads are yet to be tested in the long run on a Toyota Tundra pickup truck to actually observe their long-term performance.
These are great brake pads to have if you want to experience silent and smooth braking. Definitely one of the best brake pads for Toyota Tundra!
4) Detroit Axle – FRONT & REAR Brake Rotors & Ceramic Brake Pads w/Hardware replacement
The last option from the best brake pad for Toyota Tundra is from Detroit Axle. Their brake rotors and pads are manufactured to original equipment standards and provide a superior stopping performance. The front and rear brake kit come with a 10-year warranty. The brake rotors have Zinc Dichromate Plating that protects the rotors from rust, whereas the brake pads for Toyota Tundra are ceramic brake pads with absolutely no metallic composition in them.
The ceramic brake pads aid in better, smoother stopping power when compared to the factory-fitted brake pads. The parts are as per OEM specification, so installing/ replacing the brake kit on the Toyota Tundra would be comparatively easier.
Kit Includes:
- 5-Lug Wheel Holes
- 2x Front Disc Brake Rotors Set R-31482
- 2x Rear Disc Brake Rotors Set – R-31483
- 2x Front Ceramic Brake Pad w/Clip (Hardware Included) Set – P-1303
- 2x Rear Ceramic Brake Pad w/Clip (Hardware Included) Set – P-1304
- 1x 10oz Brake Cleaner Spray & 1x 12oz Brake Fluid Bottle
Pros:
- 100% ceramic brake pads that last longer and provide better stopping power when compared to standard brake pads.
- It offers a smoother, quieter braking experience
- Lower operating temperatures
- Good manufacturer support with a 10-year warranty
- Easy to fit as dimensions are OEM specific
- Zinc Dichromate Plating prevents rust
- Apart from the Toyota Tundra, the brake kit also fits well on other vehicles like the 2017 2018 Lexus LX570, the 2016- 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser, and the 2008- 2018 Toyota Sequoia.
Cons:
- A few cases of the brakes squealing were reported by customers. This could be attributed to incorrect installation procedures.
While the four brake pads mentioned above are clearly the best brake pad for Toyota Tundra, you could choose one from the list based on your budget and based on what kind of brake pads and rotors suit your requirements. The list of best brake pads for Toyota Tundra is also diverse in terms of the budget to make your buying process easier and simpler.
FAQ’s
While we’ve listed the best brakes pads for Toyota Tundra for you, we thought we’ll clear a little more air for you. We’re answering some common questions below that would provide you with more information on the best brake pads for Toyota Tundra.
There are a number of factors one needs to consider when shopping for the best brake pad for the Toyota Tundra:
- Material– It is recommended that brake pads for your truck are made of top-quality ceramic material as they last longer and don’t heat up quickly. Metallic, semi-metallic brake pads are options you could consider if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, but they do tend to heat up faster.
- Ease of installation: Not everyone is well-versed with technicalities. Installation of brake pads for the Tundra needs to be easy, even for someone with minimum technical knowledge. If the brake pads are direct OEM fit then it makes the replacement process simpler, and it also reduces the chances of errors. The best brake pads mentioned above are a direct fit for the Toyota Tundra. But, if you’re not sure of the installation procedure yourself, we suggest you ask for professional help from a mechanic.
- Silent braking: Toyota Tundra is a powerful and heavy vehicle. The brake pad needs to be dust-free. Low-quality brake pads that wear out quickly and produce large amounts of dust cause high braking temperatures and produce squeaking noises. Be sure to dust-free ceramic brake pads.
- Double layer Shims: Double layer rubberized shims help in smoother and quieter functioning of the brake pad.
- Advanced rotors: Rotors should have proper slots and holes on them to guard against dust and other particle accumulation. The holes also help to cool the pads down under harsh braking.
- Zinc coating: Ensure zinc coating on the brake kit for long-lasting brake pads.
No, you should only consider those brake pads for Toyota Tundra that are specifically tailored for Toyota Tundra. Brake Pads made exclusively for the Tundra are made as per OEM specifications that would aid in proper installation and functioning.
While it isn’t rocket science to replace the brake pad on your Toyota Tundra, especially if the aftermarket options are a direct fit for your truck. It could take an hour or two if you have the basic mechanical knowledge of the procedure to replace your brake pads. If one is unsure of the procedure, we recommend he/she ask for professional help from a mechanic.
Ideally, the best brake pads are ceramic brake pads that last longer, cool down faster, and provide better-stopping power. Metallic brake pads aren’t that bad, but we always suggest the best choice from the available options.
Brake rotors are designed in a way so as to keep the braking system as cool and as clean as possible. Holes in the rotors help air to pass through and that aids in air cooling the system. The slots help in draining brake dust off the rotors. This design ultimately helps in improved braking.
When shopping for a brake pad for your Toyota Tundra, never compromise on quality. Always choose brands like the ones mentioned above that are aftermarket but are reputed brands. Reputed brands are quality-oriented, and as a result, their fit and finish would meet or exceed OEM standards. Buying cheaper alternatives of brake pads for your truck could result in premature wear and tear, squeaking noises while applying brakes, improper fitment, and, in some cases- also lead to brake failure.
Brake adjustments and periodic maintenance on the Toyota Tundra help in improving the life of the brake pad. Sequencing the activities required to perform this maintenance will help you perform the right kind of work effectively and save you a lot of time.
The sequence to perform this maintenance on Toyota Tundra’s brake system is as follows:
- A thorough inspection of the brake system components
- Cleaning and lubrication of brake systems and components
- Making necessary adjustments to the brake shoes and brake cable
A thorough inspection of the brake system on your truck helps identify damage to the brake system. It would also highlight defective parts, if any. A keen eye on all braking components would help spot any abnormalities.
After an inspection, the next thing to check is the brake fluid level and cleanliness. If the brake fluid is old, then it is essential to flush it and refill it with a new brake fluid of a grade specified by Toyota. Flushing is required if the brake fluid has residue in it or is milky in color. A Golden transparent brake fluid color and fluid level between the minimum and maximum mark in the reservoir indicates a healthy brake fluid condition.
The Front brake pad and rear shoes also need to be checked for any wear and tear. Any irregularities or damages on the brake pad and brake shoes must be inspected further to assess if a replacement is needed immediately. The brake disk also needs to be inspected for cracks and bends. If any are found, then the discs must be replaced immediately.
Lastly, the brake lines under the chassis need to be inspected for fluid leakage and kinking. If you come across any irregularity, replace the brake lines.
Best Brake Pads: Conclusion
We’ve helped you list out the best brake pads for Toyota Tundra to save your time and energy as you prepare to change/ replace the worn- out pads on the wheels of your Truck. Do buy it from this product list and let us know how it’s treating your truck!
