How Often to Change Brake Pads and How to Change Brake Pads

Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems in your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM, and brakes require regular maintenance to work properly. It can be challenging to know exactly how often to change brake pads. Learn to recognize the signs, courtesy of Midway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near Grand Island, NE.

When to Change Your CDJR’s Brake Pads

How often do you change brake pads? The number of factors involved in the wear and tear of brakes makes it difficult to say. Luckily, there are a few tell-tale signs that alert you as to when to change brake pads, including:

• If you hear a grinding, scraping, or squealing noise
• If your brakes feel like they’re vibrating or shaking when in use
• If your vehicle pulls as you apply pressure to the brakes

How to Check Your Brake Pads

As you now know, there’s no definitive answer to the question: “How often should brake pads be changed?” But if you’ve noticed any of the above signs while driving around Grand Island or Hastings, you’ll want to check the brake pads. The brake pad of your Chrysler 300, RAM 1500, or any other CDJR model, is located through the wheel spokes. There should be at least a quarter inch of pad. If there’s less than a quarter inch, it’s time to have them replaced.

You’ll also want to listen for any unusual noises. As mentioned, if you notice a grinding, screeching, or squealing noise, it could be a sign that your brake pads have worn down.

Changing Brake Pads

If you want to change your brake pads yourself, you can follow these steps:

1. Buy brake pads and rotors that optimally fit your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM—we always recommend genuine OEM parts.
2. Loosen the front lug nuts, engage the emergency brake or put a brick behind your back wheels. Then raise your vehicle.
3. Loosen the caliper and remove the caliper carrier.
4. Remove the rotor, and install the new rotor.
5. Assemble the carrier, compress the calipers, then install pads and caliper.
6. Put the wheel back on, then repeat for the other three wheels.

Let the Service Technicians at Midway CDJR Help

If you’d prefer to leave changing your brake pads to the professionals, schedule a service appointment at our service center, not far from Grand Island, NE. The cost of the brake pads themselves can range between $50 to $150 on average. If you choose not to change your brake pads yourself, you’ll have to factor in labor expenses. Check out our service specials and service coupons to see how you can save on vehicle maintenance. Then, contact us today. And, for more car maintenance tips, check out our guide to changing your brake fluid.

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