02 Brake TSB

[Loadbrake2263]

The BR004-02 Brake TSB indicates that models mfg. between 00 - 03 could have the vibration problems. Toyota indicates a Starting Vin number but they use some * and ## symbols in the number. I can't tell if my VIN is elgible for the TSB because I don't know what those symbols mean.

I have been experiencing these TSB symptoms and recently my Brake Warning Light came on. Obviously, I want to have the full TSB done as soon as possible.

My Tundra was mfg. in 11/01.

Can anyone offer advice as to how to verify my elgibility for the TSB and insure that it is done properly?

Also, I assume that I am fully covered for parts & labor because I have the Extended Warranty. Are there any surprises or hidden costs that I should watch out for?

[peid]

Basically if yours is an 2002, it qualifies for the TSB since the change was made early mid run for 2003's.

Post your VIN and I will look into it for you and tell you.

Your truck must also be under warranty, 3/36, do you still have warranty left?

[peid]

Edit, either I didn't read your last line or you just added it.

Anyway, your extended warranty isn't really a warranty but rather a service contract.

Toyota picks up the bill on the warranty for the TSB, I don't think a Service Contract would honor the TSB for free, but someone will tell me if I am out of line here.

I think it will be a no hassle deal if you are under the 3/36.

If you are over the 3/36, I am guessing it isn't going to go as smoothly.

[Loadbrake2263]

I'm well under the 3/36. I'm just concerned that that I might be refused the TSB job, and only have a simple brake job done, and then have the problem resurface after I'm out of the 3/36.

The TSB states; Warranty application is limited to correction of a problem based upon a customer's specific complaint.

Does this mean that the Dealer has discresion to warrant the TSB or that my complaint warrants that the TSB jobe be done?

[peid]

That is exactly correct.

You go to your dealer and say my brake vibrate, they take it for a test drive and say, "..........................."

You either got a free brake job or didn't. Then you show them the TSB and say, "How should I handle this?"

That is how I would do it anyway, right or wrong.

I won't show them the TSB first, let them drive it first then show your cards.

[Loadbrake2263]

I guess I will take my chances with the dealer. I'm not trying to get over on Toyota, but if I have a problem and they already know what the fix is, then I want them to fix it the first time and avoid this down the road.


Otherwise, I am really happy with the Tundra and I get a lot of compliments on the truck, which incidentally, I have not added any mods. or goodys yet.

The wife has had a 4-Runner & Camry through another local dealer and has always had great service.

My brother just purchased an 04 Camry. Our FORD family is quickly becoming a Toyota family.

[peid]

Good luck, be sure to post back here with the results.

[peid]

Also, I almost forgot to mention, welcome to the site. Glad you found it in your wallet to pony up the money to become a member. You'll will find a ton of info on this site and if you have any questions please let one of the moderators know and we'll get you taken care of.

[sequoiasoon]

That's a technician and said they do an EXCELLENT job with the TSB including not destroying the backing plates and T/S members could contact at anytime to make sure it's done right if they're willing to bring it to his shop? Might definitely be worth the extra trip because I've read about many unhappy TSB stories due to lack of concern, expertise, tools, time etc form other dealers.

[Loadbrake2263]

I have had nothing but good experince with Toyota thus far. Hoping that there are no problems this time. Would be nice to know that there is a Tech out there who will insure that the job is done right. It would be great if he worked for my dealer.

[Loadbrake2263]

After weeks of anticipation, I finally took my Tundra to the dealer yesterday to describe my brake problems. My dealer "Davis Toyota" of Pittsburgh, PA handled the problem in textbook fashion.

For all of those who may have the same questions or concerns that I had prior to going in. Here is how I approached the TSB repair.

1. I took some time to really drive the truck around town and noted all of the specific conditions where I experienced any unusual feel in the brake pedal or sterring wheel whle braking. I wrote this down on paper so that I could get it in the mechanic's hands.

2. I researched the T/S Web Site and digested all possible scenarios that have occurred with other folks who have had good and bad experiences with the dealer.

3. I verified that my VIN was actually applicable under the TSB and that I was indeed still under the 3/36.

4. I read the actual TSB, BR004-02 & BR003-02 several times to understand what Toyota requires from the dealer, what the dealer requires from the owner, and what the dealer may or may not do to correct the problem.

5. I approached the dealer with my list of problems only. I did not mention the TSB as I wanted him to confirm my problems and recommend a repair. I would only mention the TSB if a billable repair were recommended.

Well, much to my surprise, the dealer willingly accepted my notes of the problem and asked me to sit for awhile while they road tested the truck. After about 2 hours, I had the feeling that something more than a road test was being performed. I sat patiently. After about 2.5 hours, the Service Advisor summoned me to the counter and explained the service being done:

The mechanic road tested the vehicle and confirmed rear brake vibration. He looked at the TSB Book and found that I was elgible for the Rear Brake TSB which he automatically performed because the new (larger drums) were on the shelf in the parts dept.

The mechanic then road tested the vehicle again and found the front brakes to be vibrating as well. These parts were not available but have been ordered. The front brake TSB will be performed when the parts come in.

All labor and parts are free, the entire job is done at no cost to me.

Thanks to T/S for all of the valuable information and owner feedback. Thanks Davis Toyota!!!