Information on Dodge Pickup Truck Brake Repair

The brake system on your Dodge truck is probably the most important safety feature on the vehicle. Brakes use a system of hydraulic lines to push fluid into the brake caliper and cause the vehicle to stop.

Features

The brake booster and reservoir are located in the engine bay, against the firewall, and hold the brake fluid in a storage bottle waiting to be used. Hard brake lines transport the fluid to the calipers on each wheel and tighten down, causing the truck to stop. Brake lines can and do rust, causing leaks and making the truck unsafe to drive.

Brake Types

Older trucks have drum brakes in the rear and disk brakes up front. Newer Dodge trucks use disk brakes all the way around, which are far easier to repair and also provide better stopping power than drum brakes.

Common Problem

A common problem on 2002 and 2003 Dodge trucks is a malfunctioning caliper bolt which holds the caliper to the rotor. These bolts are pressure-sensitive and only work properly when tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Prevention

Changing your brake pads and brake fluid, along with monitoring the brake rotors for warping, can help prevent costly shop repairs and keep the brakes working properly.

Considerations

Consider upgrading your brakes if your Dodge truck is modified with a suspension lift and bigger tires. The added weight of the tires can strain the brake system, causing premature breakage and problems. Upgrade to slotted and drilled rotors and consider switching to larger calipers and pads.