2007 Lexus ES350 Makes Noise When Braking

Identifying Common Causes of Brake Noise in Your 2007 Lexus ES350 and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location

Reviewed by

Aisha

Written by RepairPal Car Genius

Updated January 14, 2025

40% chance it's the

Brake Pads

25% chance it's the

Brake Rotors

15% chance it's the

Brake Caliper

20% chance it's

Something else

The most common reasons a 2007 Lexus ES350 makes noise when braking are bad brake pads, bad brake rotors, or bad brake caliper.

Brake Pads: Worn or glazed brake pads can lead to reduced braking efficiency and increased stopping distances.
Brake Rotors: A warped or worn brake rotor can cause vibrations during braking and reduced braking efficiency.
Brake Caliper: A seized or malfunctioning brake caliper can result in dragging brakes, overheating, and uneven wear on the brake pads.

Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What are the best Lexus repair shops?

RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 2007 Lexus ES350 braking system issues. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.

What could be causing the noise when braking in a 2007 Lexus ES350?

When diagnosing noise while braking in a 2007 Lexus ES350, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the simplest potential issues before progressing to more complex ones. Start by inspecting the brake pads, as worn pads are a common culprit for squealing or grinding noises. If the pads appear to be in good condition, check the brake rotors for any signs of warping or uneven wear, which can lead to pulsating sensations during braking. Next, examine the brake calipers for any sticking or seizing, as this can cause uneven pressure on the pads and result in noise. Additionally, look for any brake dust or debris that may have accumulated between the components, as this can also contribute to unwanted sounds. Finally, ensure that all moving parts are adequately lubricated, as insufficient lubrication can lead to friction and noise. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify the source of the noise and take appropriate action to restore your vehicle's braking performance.

What could be causing the noise when braking in a 2007 Lexus ES350?

When dealing with noise while braking in a 2007 Lexus ES350, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is worn brake pads, which can produce a grinding or squealing sound as they reach the end of their lifespan. Additionally, issues with the brake rotors, such as warping or uneven wear, can lead to a pulsating sensation and noise during braking. Another factor to consider is the condition of the brake calipers; if they are sticking or seized, they may apply uneven pressure on the brake pads, resulting in unwanted sounds and compromised braking performance. Furthermore, the presence of brake dust or debris can create friction, leading to squeaking or grinding noises. Lastly, inadequate lubrication of the brake components can also contribute to noise, as it increases friction during operation. If you encounter any of these issues, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic who can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements to ensure your braking system functions smoothly and safely.

How urgent is it to address the braking noise in a 2007 Lexus ES350?

Addressing braking noise in a 2007 Lexus ES350 is not just a matter of comfort; it is a critical safety concern that should be prioritized. Braking noise often signals underlying issues such as worn brake pads, warped rotors, or malfunctioning brake calipers, which, if left unchecked, can lead to more severe damage and costly repairs. Ignoring these symptoms can compromise the vehicle's braking performance, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly by inspecting the braking system and addressing any identified problems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs not only enhance the vehicle's reliability but also ensure the safety of all passengers. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the urgency of these repairs can help maintain the integrity of the braking system and prevent further complications down the road.

Related 2007 Lexus ES350 Problems

Read about related problems experienced by other Lexus ES350 drivers like you.

Lexus ES350 severe vibration and shaking at speeds over 60 mph, suspected defective axle assembly

Some Lexus ES350 owners report experiencing severe vibrations and shaking at speeds over 60 mph, which may be attributed to a defective axle assembly. These unusual vibrations, particularly during acceleration, can indicate a failing CV axle, resulting in a worsening shuddering sensation. Excessive vibrations may stem from a damaged axle shaft or CV joint, while issues with the inner joint of the axle could cause a shaking sensation, and loud popping or clicking sounds during sharp turns may suggest problems with the outer joint. Symptoms of constant velocity axle failure can include clicking noises, grease leakage, and driving vibrations, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and potential replacement of the entire axle assembly. Additionally, intermittent vibrations felt in the steering wheel at higher speeds may be linked to CV joint issues, which can be mistaken for out-of-balance wheel vibrations. CV joint failure often results from decreased lubrication, leading to increased metal-on-metal contact and diminished shock absorption, ultimately causing vibrations in the steering wheel. It is advisable for owners experiencing these issues to have their axle assembly inspected by a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and resolution.

6 model years affected

Avg Mileage: 195,848

93 others reported problem

37 comments

Mazda CX-9 brake squeaking and grinding issue persists despite replacing rear pads with NAPA Adaptive One

Some Mazda CX-9 owners report experiencing brake squeaking and grinding issues that may stem from several underlying causes. Brake squeaking is often attributed to high-frequency vibrations when brake pads do not slide smoothly over the rotors, which can be exacerbated by brake dust, temperature fluctuations, or overly smooth rotors and pads. While applying anti-squeal compounds may provide temporary relief, the problem can persist if not addressed at its source. Additionally, grinding brakes, which produce a lower-pitched sound, may indicate worn-out brake pads and require immediate attention to prevent further damage to the braking system. Even after replacing the rear brake pads with NAPA Adaptive One pads, some owners find that squeaking and grinding noises continue, suggesting that the root cause may extend beyond the pads themselves. Proper alignment of the brake rotors with the new pads is essential, and a thorough inspection of components such as the brake rotors, calipers, and brake booster may be necessary to resolve these persistent issues effectively.

1 model year affected

Avg Mileage: 178,000

2 others reported problem

1 comment

See More 2007 Lexus ES350 Problems

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Find a Certified ShopThe largest certified network of auto repair shops

Get a Fair Price EstimateHundreds of repair estimates honored nationwide

Check for Safety RecallsUse VIN or license plate to see if your vehicle is affected

Exceptional warranty

Shops offer at least a 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty.

Satisfied customers

We ensure high satisfaction through verified customer reviews.

Transparent pricing

You'll get a Fair Price Guarantee on all RepairPal estimates.

Millions trust us for auto repair — RepairPal Certified^® locations must pass a rigorous approval process to ensure quality, customer satisfaction, and fair pricing.

Find a Repair Location