Hi - I have had my "new" J-reg Townie for 3 months (less one week). When I first used the brakes, they seemed OK (when travelling at 30 and 40), but when stopping quickly, or approaching roundabouts at 50 or over, the whole car shuddered. At first I thought that it is dust on the discs from transport or from standing, but last week, I had to stop quickly on the M4 (due to an accident ahead) and the whole car shuddered like crazy. I haven't had much chance of travelling at over 50mph, as the roads I mostly use are 30 and 40mph.

I rang the Warranty and I have booked it in for Monday, but before it goes in I would like to know what anyone thinks it might be. Could it be warped discs? as this happened on my Cruiser towards the end of its days. It only happens over 40mph and I don't stop quickly, I always approach roundabouts, etc, slowly, even my kids tell me I'm too slow!!!. If it is the Disc, could it be done on Warranty?

Thanks for any replies. - Joanna

- (#8041) Joanna, 11 Apr 03 4:26

It sounds like you have worn brake disks.

As the break pads wear down through usage the disks also ware, albeit much much less than the pads. Once the disks have worn down too far, there is insufficient metal to dissipate the heat generated under heavy braking. At this point the disks expand and contract quicker and further than they should, Hence the judder.

Hope that helps
dave Bright

- (#8042) dave Bright, 11 Apr 03 4:49

Suspect disk(s), may also be pads, pad spring/anti rattle shims not being there or mis fitted. Does it feel from the front? Could it be the rear drums? Do you have new tyres fitted? Jap domestic tyres are not suitable for UK use!
May well come under the wear and tear get out clause, if you have done few miles since you got it you should be able to argue that it was not fit for it's purpose!
Hope you get it sorted out at no cost to you.
Clive

- (#8043) Clive, 11 Apr 03 5:17

Thank you Dave and Clive for your messages. Just to let you know that it was done today at Toyota. (Did you read my "Have a laugh posting"? Found out today that the bloke who couldn't get the keys out drives a Toyota automatic himself.

Anyway, cost me £190 for Shimming and Brake Pads and VAT (of course). Haven't had a chance yet to do 60mph, but at 30 and 40 seems fine.

Tried to argue that Bristol MPV should pay, but he said that it is my wear and tear and it is not covered on warranty either. He said that it was OK when he sold it to me (just 3 months ago), but he didn't try it out at over 40mph, so how can he really know? He also said that it wouldn't have passed MOT if it was there before.

Sob Sob (hard to part with dosh)
Jo

- (#8104) Jo, 16 Apr 03 14:05