Considering a rear disc brake conversion for your Toyota Tacoma or Tundra? Learn the differences between drum and disc brakes, the benefits of converting, and when a rear disc upgrade makes sense.

January 27, 2026

Toyota Tacoma & Tundra Rear Disc Brake Conversion: Is It Worth It?

Many Toyota Tacoma and Tundra owners eventually ask the same question:
Should I convert my rear drum brakes to disc brakes?

Rear disc brake conversions have become increasingly popular, especially for street-driven trucks and performance-oriented builds. This guide explains what a rear disc conversion is, why people do it, and whether it makes sense for your Tacoma or Tundra.

Drum Brakes vs Rear Disc Brakes (What’s the Difference?)

From the factory, many Tacomas and Tundras came equipped with rear drum brakes, while later models and higher-performance trims moved to rear discs.

Drum Brakes:

Enclosed design
Adequate for basic driving
More prone to heat buildup
Require periodic adjustment
Less consistent under repeated braking

Rear Disc Brakes:

Open design for better cooling
More consistent braking performance
Easier maintenance
Improved pedal feel
Better performance under load and repeated stops

Drum brakes work—but they’re not ideal for performance-focused or modified trucks.

Why Do Tacoma & Tundra Owners Convert to Rear Disc Brakes?

Rear disc conversions are typically done for performance, consistency, and drivability, not just looks.

Common reasons include:

Improved braking balance front to rear
Better heat dissipation
Reduced brake fade
Easier servicing compared to drums
Improved pedal feel
Better braking confidence during spirited driving or towing

For trucks that are lowered, upgraded with big front brakes, or driven aggressively on the street, rear discs help complete the braking system.

Does a Rear Disc Conversion Improve Stopping Distance?

In many cases, yes—but indirectly.

Rear disc brakes don’t usually provide a massive increase in raw stopping power by themselves. Instead, they:

Improve brake balance
Reduce rear brake fade
Maintain consistency under repeated braking

The result is more predictable and controlled stops, especially when paired with upgraded front brakes.

When a Rear Disc Conversion Makes the Most Sense

A rear disc conversion is especially beneficial if:

You’ve upgraded to a big brake kit up front
Your truck is lowered and driven primarily on the street
You tow or haul moderate loads
You experience brake fade with factory drums
You want easier maintenance and better long-term reliability

For stock, lightly driven trucks, drums may still be adequate—but many owners choose rear discs once performance or usage increases.

What’s Involved in a Rear Disc Brake Conversion?

A typical Tacoma or Tundra rear disc conversion includes:

Rear brake calipers
Rotors
Caliper brackets
Pads
Stainless steel brake lines
Parking brake solution (vehicle-specific)

Proper fitment and brake balance are critical. A well-designed conversion uses components engineered specifically for Toyota platforms rather than generic parts.

Does It Affect the Parking Brake?

This is one of the most common questions.

Most quality rear disc conversions:

Retain a functional parking brake
Use either an internal drum-style parking brake or calipers designed with integrated parking brake mechanisms

A properly designed kit should not compromise parking brake functionality.

Rear Disc Conversion vs Just Better Front Brakes

Many owners upgrade front brakes first—and that’s usually the right move. However, pairing strong front brakes with rear drums can:

Shift brake bias too far forward
Increase front brake wear
Reduce overall balance

A rear disc conversion helps support front brake upgrades, creating a more balanced and confidence-inspiring system.

Final Thoughts

A rear disc brake conversion for a Toyota Tacoma or Tundra isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a functional improvement aimed at consistency, balance, and long-term performance.

For street-driven trucks, lowered setups, or builds with upgraded front brakes, rear discs help modernize braking performance and improve overall driving confidence.

As with any brake modification, choosing components designed specifically for your platform is key to achieving the best results.

SOS Performance Tacoma & Tundra Rear Disc Conversion Kits

Tacoma:

Tundra: