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How to Change Front Brake Pads on Dodge Ram? 2500 and Dodge Ram 1500

Changing the front brake pads on your Dodge Ram 2500 or Dodge Ram 1500 is an essential maintenance task that helps ensure the safety and optimal performance of your vehicle’s braking system. Over time, brake pads wear down due to friction, and replacing them promptly is crucial to maintain effective braking and prevent damage to other brake components.

While it’s always recommended to consult your vehicle’s specific owner’s manual for detailed instructions, this guide will provide you with a general overview of the steps involved in changing the front brake pads on your Dodge Ram 2500 or Dodge Ram 1500. Remember, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it’s best to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic or technician.

Here is How to Change Front Brake Pads on Dodge Ram:

There is some equipment you need to have at hand to change your brake pads effectively. The equipment may be expensive, but you can use them for a lifetime. The tools include:

Tools and Materials
Jack
Jack stands
New brake pads
Brake tool
Brake oil
Socket wrench
Tire iron

Make sure to gather all these items before starting the brake pad replacement process to ensure a smooth and efficient procedure.

Steps To Change 2500 and Dodge Ram 1500

1. Secure the vehicle:
   • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
   • Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.
2. Prepare for the brake pad replacement:
   • Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheel/tire assembly.
   • Use the jack to raise the front of the vehicle and place the jack stands securely under the frame.
3. Remove the wheel/tire assembly:
   • Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel/tire assembly.
4. Remove the brake caliper:
   • Locate the brake caliper, which is held in place by two 13mm head bolts.
   • Remove these bolts using a socket wrench.
   • If the caliper bracket is not being replaced, let it hang freely but avoid suspending it by the rubber brake line.
5. Retract the piston and remove the old brake pads:
   • Identify the brake pads and the pistons behind them.
   • Using a pry tool, gently pry against the old brake pads to retract the pistons.
   • Once retracted, lift off the caliper and set it aside.
6. Clean and prepare for reinstallation:
   • Clean the brake pad contact area on the caliper bracket using a wire brush.
   • Remove the pins from the rubber boot and apply new slider grease to prevent seizing.
7. Install the new brake pads:
   • Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are positioned correctly.
   • Ensure the brake pad with the wear indicator goes on the inside.
8. Reinstall the caliper:
   • Place the caliper back over the brake pads and align it with the caliper bracket.
   • Tighten the two 13mm head bolts to secure the caliper.
9. Replace the rotor (optional):
   • If you are also changing the rotor, remove the two 21mm head bolts from the back of the caliper bracket using a socket wrench.
   • Slide the caliper off, allowing the old rotor to be removed.
   • Install the new rotor by placing it onto the wheel hub.
10. Reinstall the wheel/tire assembly:
    • Place the wheel/tire assembly back onto the wheel hub.
    • Tighten the lug nuts by hand as much as possible.
    • Lower the vehicle using the jack and remove the jack stands.
    • Fully tighten the lug nuts using a tire iron in a star pattern.
11. Repeat the process for the other front wheel.

Following these steps, you can change the front brake pads on a Dodge Ram 1500 or Dodge Ram 2500. Remember to exercise caution, follow safety procedures, and refer to the vehicle’s manual for any specific instructions or torque specifications.

When should Ram 1500 brake pads be replaced?

For your RAM 1500 or Chrysler Pacifica, the brake pads usually last between 25,000 and 65,000 miles on average. Nevertheless, some drivers may experience brake pads that last beyond 80,000 miles.

Additionally, some common signs indicate it’s time to replace the brake pads:

1. Squealing or squeaking noise: If you hear a high-pitched noise when applying the brakes, it could indicate that the brake pads are worn and the wear indicator is contacting the rotor.
2. Grinding noise: A grinding or metal-on-metal noise when braking suggests that the brake pads are significantly worn and the metal backing contacts the rotor. This should be addressed immediately as it can cause damage to the rotors.
3. Reduced brake performance: If you notice that your braking distance has increased or that you need to apply more pressure on the brake pedal to stop the vehicle, it could be a sign that the brake pads are worn and less effective.
4. Visual inspection: It’s a good practice to inspect your brake pads regularly visually. If you can see that the pad material has worn down to a thickness of around 3 to 4 millimeters, it’s time to replace them.

Remember that these signs are general indicators, and it’s always recommended to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for specific recommendations based on your driving conditions and vehicle model. Regular maintenance and inspections can help ensure your brake pads are replaced promptly, maintaining optimal braking performance and safety.

How long do brakes last on a Dodge Ram 2500?

The lifespan of brakes on a Dodge Ram 2500 can vary depending on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, vehicle weight, and the type of brake pads used. As a rough estimate, brake pads on a Dodge Ram 2500 typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles. However, this range can vary significantly.

Some factors that can affect brake pad lifespan include:

1. Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go driving, city driving, or driving in hilly or mountainous terrain can accelerate brake pad wear.
2. Towing and hauling: If you frequently tow heavy loads or carry significant cargo, it can put additional strain on the brakes, leading to faster wear.
3. Driving style: Aggressive driving, such as hard braking or excessive braking, can wear out the brake pads more quickly.
4. Quality of brake pads: The type and quality of brake pads installed on the vehicle can impact their lifespan. Higher-quality brake pads tend to last longer than lower-quality ones.

It’s important to note that brake pads will wear at different rates, with the front brake pads typically wearing out faster than the rear ones since they bear more of the braking load. Regular inspection of the brake pads and routine maintenance will help determine when they need to be replaced.

It’s always recommended to refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for brake pad replacement intervals specific to your Dodge Ram 2500 model. Additionally, having regular brake system inspections performed by a qualified mechanic can help identify any issues and ensure your brakes are in good working condition.

How to change front brake pads on dodge ram FAQs

Conclusion

Changing the front brake pads on a Dodge Ram 2500 or Dodge Ram 1500 involves a straightforward process. After gathering the necessary tools and equipment, such as a jack, jack stands, new brake pads, brake tool, brake oil, socket wrench, and tire iron, the first step is to remove the wheel to access the brake assembly. Depending on whether you’re replacing just the brake pads or both the brake pads and rotor, the subsequent steps will vary

Sources:

www.placeforbrakes.com/faqs.php