Brake Pads and Rotors for the 3rd Gen 4Runner

The foundation of any brake job starts with pads and rotors. We carry cross drilled and slotted rotors for the 5VZ and 3RZ engines with 16 inch wheels, designed to manage heat better than a standard rotor during hard braking. We also carry cross drilled and slotted rotors for the 4WD and Pre Runner configuration covering 1995-2004 fitments. For pads, we stock options from trusted performance brands including:

  • Street ceramic compounds for daily driving and mild off-road use
  • Sport friction compounds for higher heat loads and more aggressive stops

Cross drilled and slotted rotors do more than just look the part. The holes and slots work together to push hot gases and debris away from the pad surface during hard braking, which keeps the contact patch clean and reduces brake fade on long descents or repeated hard stops. 

Both pad compounds are designed to work with these rotors, so you get a system that performs well together right out of the box.

Rear Drum Brakes and Brake Shoe Replacement Parts

The 3rd Gen 4Runner uses rear drum brakes, and keeping those components fresh matters just as much as what is happening up front. We carry the OEM Toyota replacement brake drum and OE brake shoe sets built to factory spec for the 1996-2002 model years.

OEM parts are the smart choice when you want a direct fit with the same quality Toyota put on the truck originally, and we stock both the standard shoe sets and the specific fitments for the rear axle setups found on these rigs. Our catalog includes options for different rear configurations, so you can find the right match without guessing.

4WD Specific Parts and Conversion Kits for Toyota 4Runner 3rd Gen (1996-2002) Brakes

Not every 3rd Gen 4Runner has the same brake setup, and we have parts sorted specifically for 4WD applications. Our 4WD section covers the unique hardware and components that come with the added complexity of a four wheel drive system. The parts in this section include:

We also carry conversion kits for owners looking to change their brake configuration entirely. These kits are popular with enthusiasts who want to swap to a different caliper or rotor size as part of a larger build.

Big Brake Upgrade Kits for the 3rd Gen 4Runner

For off-roaders running oversized tires or towing heavy loads, a big brake upgrade kit is worth serious consideration. We carry the Stoptech 6 piston front big brake kit, designed to fit 1996-2004 Tundra, Tacoma, and 4Runner platforms with 16 inch or larger wheels.

This kit delivers a significant jump in clamping force and heat capacity compared to the stock setup, which matters most when you are coming down a mountain trail or hauling a loaded trailer.

Hawk brake pads are also available to pair with the Stoptech ST60 6 piston caliper, available in street ceramic and sport friction compounds.

Toyota 4Runner 3rd Gen Brakes: Hardware, Line Locks, and Proportioning Valves

Completing a brake job often means you need the small parts too. LCE Performance stocks the Wilwood adjustable proportioning valve to fine-tune front to rear brake bias, the mechanical line lock for holding pressure on one axle independently, and all the fittings, clips, and hardware you need to finish the job correctly - all available in our Odds and Ends section.

These parts round out a complete brake system refresh for your Toyota 4Runner 3rd Gen (1996-2002) brakes, covering everything from the basics to the specialty components that serious builds demand.

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