Tools and Materials Needed:
- Lug wrench
- Car jack and jack stands
- Socket wrench with appropriate sockets
- Flat-head screwdriver
- C-clamp or brake caliper tool (optional)
- New brake pads
- Brake grease
Safety Precautions:
- Engage the parking brake and ensure the vehicle is in Park (for automatics) or first gear (for manuals) before beginning work.
- Use jack stands to support the vehicle securely after lifting it with the car jack.
- Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts:
- Locate the lug nuts on the wheels that correspond to the brake pads you need to replace.
- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts but do not remove them completely at this point.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle:
- Position the car jack under the designated jacking point of your Dodge 1500.
- Use the jack to carefully lift the vehicle until the wheel you need to work on is off the ground.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel:
- Use the lug wrench to remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
Step 4: Locate the Brake Caliper:
- Now that the wheel is removed, you'll see the brake caliper on the inner side of the brake rotor.
Step 5: Remove the Caliper:
- Locate the bolts that hold the brake caliper in place (usually two bolts).
- Use a socket wrench with appropriate sized sockets to loosen and remove the caliper bolts.
- Gently slide the caliper off the rotor, taking care not to strain or damage the brake line.
Step 6: Remove the Old Brake Pads:
- You should now see the old brake pads in the caliper bracket.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to carefully pry the old pads out. Be sure to note how they are positioned so that you can install the new pads correctly.
Step 7: Check Brake Rotor Condition:
- Take a moment to inspect the brake rotor for wear, damage, or grooves. If the rotor needs replacement, address that issue before moving forward. Smooth the rotor surface with fine sandpaper if there are any minor irregularities.
Step 8: Apply Brake Grease:
- Use brake grease to apply a thin layer to the back of the new brake pads where they contact the caliper piston and caliper slide pins. This prevents squeaking and ensures smooth operation.
Step 9: Compress Caliper Piston:
- Use a C-clamp or a brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new pads. Be patient as this can require a bit of force.
Step 10: Insert New Brake Pads:
- Position the new brake pads in the caliper bracket, making sure they are properly seated. Slide them in gently ensuring that the new pads are aligned correctly.
Step 11: Reattach the Caliper:
- Carefully align the caliper over the brake rotor and reinstall the caliper bolts. Tighten them firmly but not excessively.
Step 12: Test the Brakes:
- Before putting the wheel back on, lightly depress the brake pedal a few times to re-engage the brake fluid and seat the new pads against the rotor.
Step 13: Reattach the Wheel:
- Place the wheel back on and reinstall the lug nuts. Hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.
Step 14: Lower the Vehicle:
- Gradually lower the vehicle using the car jack until it is securely back on the ground.
Step 15: Tighten the Lug Nuts Fully:
- Once the vehicle is lowered, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Repeat the process on the other wheels where you need to replace the brake pads. Remember to test the brakes gently after each wheel is replaced to ensure they are working properly. If you encounter any issues or have doubts about your ability to perform this task, it's best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.
