One problem related to brake disc pads has been reported for the 2002 Toyota 4Runner. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Toyota 4Runner based on all problems reported for the 2002 4Runner.
Vibration from braking causing very decreased vehicle control posing very increased accident risk. Toyota four runner 02 limited, recurrence of pulsing brake pedal and very high vehicle vibration when braking. This occurs after short or long mountain descents at normal / posted highway speeds under normal passenger loads (not hauling), clear dry conditions. This is the second time this low mileage vehicle has experience this issue. First time, the front rotors were replaced at the dealer by the previous owners expense under 60k miles. The vehicle is driven at most 7k miles a year. The problem has returned over and over and poses a serious hazard to occupants and other highway travelers. Searching the web, there are numerous complaints of warped rotors which Toyota dealers are saying is driver error / normal use. I have not driven this vehicle much and not hard. My use would qualify as normal highway travel. The vehicle was purchased by me in 2008 and I have replaced rotors every year. I have purchased the slotted rotors with ceramic as well as semi metallic with no benefit . Certainly the expense of again replacing rotors is concerning, but really, the amount of vibration and decreased control causes me to be very concerned for my, and others, safety. Even if the rotors are replaced, it seems very likely that the vibration and loss of control will return in a few thousand miles of normal use. I would like Toyota to admit their vehicles have faulty assembly which causes excessive wear on pads and rotors. I now just took it in again, and this will be the 4th set of rotors, pads and rear drums!.