2016-2022 Lexus RX350 And RX450h Rear Brake Pads And Rotors Replacement Instructions

Master Technician shows the DIY how-to removal, service and installation procedure.
Please note that no matter how you retract the rear parking brake piston screw (using a battery like in this video, using the factory computer or mechanically winding it back using a Torx bit after unbolting the motor), there is a small chance of setting a fault code for the brake system. If the fault code is set, it would have to be cleared with a good quality scan tool.
Please help support my channel by making any purchase using the following affiliate links for which I may receive a small commission, or use the Super Thanks button to donate to the channel directly.
Genuine Lexus/Toyota front AND rear brake pads: amzn.to/3ZwXMM6
Genuine Lexus/Toyota rear brake pad shims: ebay.us/BBEZSp
Genuine Lexus/Toyota rear brake rotors: ebay.us/vrwp7X
Genuine Lexus/Toyota slider pin rubber grease: amzn.to/44Qh9RE
Genuine Lexus/Toyota caliper grease for between pads and shims: amzn.to/471ihnj
Brake caliper piston compressor tool: amzn.to/3OcShwC
SUV jack stands: amzn.to/3q6VS7t
Thin wrench set to hold the slider pin while unbolting: amzn.to/3xLoTZX
Anti-seize lubricant for the pad slider inserts in the caliper brackets: amzn.to/3QcAXdR
Small wire brushes for cleaning the caliper brackets: amzn.to/3OqlCoC
Large wire brushes for cleaning the hub: amzn.to/3OtyGts
1/2" drive cordless impact wrench kit to take the wheels off: amzn.to/3Kcw00I
1/2" torque wrench for tightening the wheels: amzn.to/3Kcu48E
Small flat blade screwdriver set: amzn.to/44HUoQi
Rechargeable LED mini work light: amzn.to/3Y74OpY
M8x1.25 bolt for taking the brake rotors off: amzn.to/3K8pQ1x
Thank you very much, I really appreciate it!
Huge thanks to Jim Ollick for editing this video!

[@tylerjohnson2127]

I’m using a 12v on the passenger side exactly like you instructed, but the parking brake motor is not stopping. Been connected for 5-10 minutes.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@tylerjohnson2127 I’ve not run into that, should only take 10-15 seconds. Maybe something is broken inside the caliper or motor.

[@yarusie]

Hey Victor...I did this but now I have mssg "electronic parking brake multifunction...parking brake unavailable"

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@yarusie hi, there is a note in the video description that talks about a possibility of setting a fault code when doing rear brake pad replacement on this model. You will need to clear it with a scan tool.

[@MireSeVini]

Great job, Viktor. The Lexus community appreciates you. Keep 'em coming!

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Thank you for the support!

[@alexanderasterlin8603]

Thank you for making these videos, they are excellent. I am having fun doing my own services my RX!

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Wow, thank you so much for your support! I truly appreciate it!!

[@jmikhael1886]

Any reason why one pin has a black tape and one doesnt. The one with a black tape is shorter. Thanks

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@jmikhael1886 on some Lexus models both pins have the rubber damper, on other models only one has it. I don’t know why. Just make sure you reinstall the pins in the correct spots during reassembly.

[@unebonnevie]

Thank you for taking the time to show how to lift the car properly! *Note to self* : Do not buy a car with electric parking brake!

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

You bet! 😆

[@jdizzle312]

Can I use an 18v battery from my other tools to back out the motor or does it have to be 12v?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

It might work fine, or it might burn out the motor. I personally wouldn’t risk it.

[@sellstuff-n3h]

After I did this it now says parking brake malfunction contact dealer parking brake unavailable

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Please see the note below the video regarding the possibility of setting fault codes when doing the brake job.. You will need to clear the fault codes using a scan tool.

[@arielreyes12]

Question, i have a 2020, can i just release the parking brake from inside of the vehicle before i do the EPB? So i don’t have to do the 12v battery process

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

No, that only retracts the park brake by a millimetre or so, you need to fully wind it back to be able to compress the piston. On a 2020, you don’t have to use a 12v battery, there is an easier way: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWrHnXuvdrpmia8si=aXQaeA8gO0VuENcS

[@arielreyes12]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive thanks so much, always follow your videos

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@arielreyes12 Thanks!

[@arielreyes12]

Thanks so much for your videos, today completed ✔️ front and rear pads and rotors replacement on my 2020 following your videos Appreciate 🙏

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@arielreyes12 excellent work!

[@ghahandi]

Very good instructional. There are other vids, but this covers all the bases in his video. Kudos Viktor~😁😁✝✝

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Thank you for the positive comment!

[@stevenreiss6917]

This is the best, most thorough and PROFESSIONAL approach to getting the job done right. Congratulations and thank you!

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Thank you very much Steven!

[@EricAmazon]

Link to 4th Generation RX 350 & RX 450h video playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLUFOLrJMMDwAu9pZrHFx04hVr1PfksS0C

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Right on!

[@EricAmazon]

Do you have more 4th Gen RX 450h maintenance videos coming? • body side molding • spark plug replacement • Brake fluid replacement/bleed • water pump and thermostat replacement • Throttle body cleaning

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

It will depend on when I can get my hands on one of those. I currently have access to a 2017 RX350, but not a 450h.

[@EricAmazon]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive Thanks

[@nickloughrey9841]

Take a holiday in Ireland and I let you replace my RX450H 2016 weeping water pump !.🐵......@@Viktor_G_Automotive

[@andryakaaad]

a note for nx300 2020. the 17 wrench should be really "slim" - mine is ~8 mm and it cannot grab the pin. Viktor definitely has a slimmer version. The same goes about the 14 mm socket - you wouldn't be able to have a good grip if your 14 mm socket is bulky - the plastic casing of the break motor gets in a way. I've tried to use a wrench for 14mm, but gave up once it slipped. break service mode works on nx300 2020 without any issues.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

You are correct, most standard thickness wrenches don’t fit, you need to either buy a skinny one or grind a regular one down 😀

[@M-J-P]

Thanks! For making this video. You should have more subs. Let’s see if our effort makes it possible

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@M-J-P Thank you so much for your support and encouragement, I truly appreciate it!!

[@next1mpact]

Just curious, what is the purpose of the black ring on one of the sliding pins and how can you tell the black ring should be on which sliding pin if forgot which sliding pin was on?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@next1mpact I believe they are there to absorb vibration and reduce brake noise. If you forget where it goes, you can check on the other side brake caliper. On some models one pin is different length than the other, so make sure to reinstall them correctly or you will run into issues down the road.

[@unebonnevie]

For me I would a portable DC power supply that I can plugged into a AC plug in my house. Set it to 12V DC and whatever ampere required (with a little more) to move the electric parking brake motor.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

That would work too.

[@mik195501]

Victor, Toyota and Lexus recommend tightening the wheel nuts to 103 nm

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

That is correct. 103 Nm equals to 76 ft-lbs, which is the units we use here in North America.

[@histandard31]

Hello Viktor, have you ever seen this error message: Access system with Elec. Key malfunction? Now the car won't start. 2018 Rx350. Thanks for your help in advance.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

No, I can’t recall ever seeing such a message. Would need to scan for fault codes and diagnose.

[@histandard31]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive thank you for the reply, very curious to see what it is. Couldn't find much info online

[@edinh310]

Hey Viktor, If you're taking video requests, I'm wanting to add some sound deadening material (dynamat) to my RX. Any chance you posts videos on how to remove the following trim pieces please? - remove C and D (rear) trim panels - however I have the Mark Levinson system so there's a speaker on the rear pillars - how do you delicately (without permanently damaging or creasing) pull down the rear headliner to add sound deadening on the roof (I have the panoramic roof so only the rear needs sound proofing) - how do I lift up the rear seat bench (I have the hybrid) - how do I remove the engine bay trim pieces (2 sides, 1 over the radiator)

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

I’ll add it to my to do list, but I’m not sure when I will be able to film that type of work.

[@sellstuff-n3h]

After I did this it now says parking brake malfunction contact dealer parking brake unavailable

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Please see the note below the video regarding the possibility of setting fault codes when doing the brake job.. You will need to clear the fault codes using a scan tool.

[@BinkyCA]

Viktor, what are your thoughts on Akebono pads vs Brembo pads for this truck?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

I don't have any experience with those as I only use the OEM pads.

[@edinh310]

I'm pretty sure that's the F-Sport model - and I'm it's the panoramic roof model. Can you post a video on how to clean the sunroof drain hoses - particularly the *rear* drain hoses? Also how to lubricate the sunroof. Any other regular maintenance videos or cleaning videos would be greatly appreciated for fellow RX owners.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Will do if I get a chance, thank you for the suggestions!

[@isaiassantovena2678]

Questions, Can I disengage the electric parking brake from inside the vehicle as you showed towards the end of the video?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

On 2020-2022 RX you can, on the 2016-2019 you cannot. Thanks for watching!

[@miryamamar3420]

Every tiny detail reflects the excellent quality in the repair process. I don't own the same generation but the educational information was very satisfying. If you have to choose a certain year of the RX to own, which year would you take of the third and the fourth generations, based on your repair and maintenance experience? Thank you.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Both are good generations of the RX, my decision would be based on my budget. I’ve owned a 2012 RX350 and a 2010 RX450h. My brother has a 2017 RX350, no issues with any of them.

[@dan5554]

My NX rotors were stuck bad , hammer and WD40 didn't work but your M8 bolt worked great.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Awesome, thank you so much for the support, I really appreciate it!

[@whyallthefuss201]

I can’t thank you enough for the detailed tutorial on backing the electric parking brake. I was midway through replacing the pads and rotors on my wife’s 2017 RX450h and couldn’t figure out why I couldn’t push in the caliper piston. I almost broke the piston by cranking it in with all mighty force. Thanks again

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Glad the video was helpful!

[@Mac-t4y]

Do you have the procedure to place the 2013 Lexus GS350 Electronic Rear Parking Brake into service mode?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

You don’t need to do that as the parking brake setup is different. Just release the parking brake by pushing the button once and you can go ahead with the brake replacement like any other car.

[@Mac-t4y]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive Many thanks sir. Just surprise me per your comment. Why doesn't other model has the same setup likes this one?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@Mac-t4y the 2013 GS uses a regular rear brake caliper with cables that apply the parking brake, but instead of a person applying the parking brake, an electrical motor does it. The 2016 RX uses different calipers, with the EPB motors built into them.

[@robertsimonofsky3959]

Mr. V, do I have to use the Lexus or Toyota pads. Are the other well know brands like “Power Stop” or Raybesto ok. There is a big difference in price . I have a 2019rx350

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

I would personally only use Lexus/Toyota pads on my vehicle. Some aftermarket ones are ok, but many cause brake noise and vibration.

[@robertsimonofsky3959]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive thank you . Will use Lexus pads….

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@robertsimonofsky3959 good decision 👍

[@Vseponovoi]

Витя где находится твоя мастерская хочу приехать к тебе починить lexus случайно не в Калифорнии?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Unfortunately I am pretty far away from you, in Canada :)

[@Vseponovoi]

I am so sad to hear that. ​@@Viktor_G_Automotive

[@JuanCarlos-ph7lb]

Hi Viktor ! Would I be able to use the same battery of the RX I’m changing the breaks to ? I just have to have long enough wires to reach the calipers . Please let me know I would appreciate it 🙏

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Yes, you definitely can.

[@JuanCarlos-ph7lb]

Do I need to disconnect it from the car ?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@JuanCarlos-ph7lb no, it’s just a 12v supply to turn the EPB motors

[@JuanCarlos-ph7lb]

@@Viktor_G_Automotive thank you Viktor

[@sithk2158]

I have 06 lexus rx400h vsc systems abs brake skids on after change brake pads and calipers why? Great video

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

If the brakes are not bled following a specific procedure, there will be fault codes in the system. May just need to clear the codes with a scan tool, or might have to do a brake bleed with the scan tool to get rid of the codes if you can’t just clear them.

[@sithk2158]

Thanks for ur help will try clear code

[@vishalkole9111]

Kudos to you! Thanks for posting this video.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Thank you 😊

[@ciwwebmaster]

Viktor, You are a master mechanic. But, man when I had a brake job on a Lexus and the calipers and rotors were that crusty. I would have to recommend a new set of rotors, pads ++ calipers all new. Man that car must be in great white north....look at the corrosion. Man they got there just in time.

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Yep, it is a Canadian vehicle 😀

[@ciwwebmaster]

Keep up the good work!@@Viktor_G_Automotive

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

@@ciwwebmaster Thanks!

[@-ssch]

Can I re-use the shims while replacing brake pads

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

You can if they are in good condition, not damaged, bent or rusted.

[@typicalkevin1191]

Would this instruction work for 2015 NX200T? Thank you!

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Mechanically, the rear brakes are very similar between the RX and NX. Here is a video of how to retract the rear EPB on the NX so that you can compress the caliper pistons: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6TTiJiOfdKMetE

[@andrii3810]

for nx300 1gen caliper bracket torque is 79 lb-ft. Not the same as for RX - 111 lb-ft slide pins torque is 25 lb-ft

[@saadantefj]

You can put the brakes in service mode....look up how to and it disengages the ebs

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

You can enter the rear brake service mode on 2020-2022 RX models only. The 2016-2019 have to have the EPB motors either retracted manually or electrically the way I show in this video.

[@RobS32]

Spot on mate 👍

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

Thanks 👍

[@FrancodeJager]

This may be a dumb question, but if the Auto Park Break is turned off/disengaged, will you still need to run the process on backing the electric parking brake?

[@Viktor_G_Automotive]

It is not a dumb question, and yes, you have to do this if you want to compress the rear caliper piston to install new rear brake pads. Taking the e-brake off will back the motor up by a few turns to release the brake, but you need to wind it back fully to complete the rear brake job.

[@FrancodeJager]

Thank you, do you have to use the electric process to make it back up or will manual compression using a brake caliper tool also work? @@Viktor_G_Automotive