About every six months, with the vehicle raised and securely supported on jackstands, inspect the rubber hoses connecting the steel brake lines to the front and rear brake assemblies for cracks, chafing, leaks, blisters, and other damage, as these are crucial parts of the brake system. Use a light and mirror for a thorough check, and replace any damaged hose with a new one. To replace the front brake hose, loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and remove the wheel. At the frame bracket, hold the hose fitting with an open-end wrench and unscrew the brake line fitting from the hose, using a flare-nut wrench to avoid rounding off the corners. Remove the U-clip and E-ring, if equipped, from the female fitting at the bracket with pliers, then pass the hose through the bracket. At the caliper end, remove the banjo fitting bolt and separate the hose from the caliper, ensuring to replace the two copper sealing washers during installation. Remove the U-clip from the strut bracket and feed the hose through. To install the new hose, pass the caliper fitting end through the strut bracket, connect it to the caliper with the banjo bolt and copper washers, ensuring the locating lug is engaged, then tighten the bolt to the specified torque. Push the metal support into the strut bracket and install the U-clip, ensuring the hose isn't twisted. Route the hose into the frame bracket, connect the brake line fitting by hand, install the clip and E-ring if equipped, and tighten securely. Bleed the caliper, install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. For the rear brake hose, repeat the removal and installation steps, ensuring to bleed the wheel cylinder or caliper. When replacing metal brake lines, use the correct parts, avoiding copper tubing, and purchase steel brake lines from a dealer or auto parts store. Prefabricated brake lines with flared tube ends and installed fittings are available and should be securely supported in brackets with adequate clearance from moving or hot components. After installation, check the master cylinder fluid level, add fluid as necessary, bleed the brake system, and test the brakes carefully before driving.
Posted by ToyotaPartsDeal Specialist 
