How to Replace Front Brake Pads: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Watch this video to learn how to replace the front brake pads on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Front Brake Pads on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

Tightening Torques

Slide pins
- 2009 through 2014 models: 24 Ft-lbs2015
- 2015 – Later models: 31 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

Hydraulic jack
Jack stands
Wheel lug wrench
Big flat head screwdriver
Ratchet
13mm socket
17mm wrench
Clamp or iron wire
Wire brush
Paper towel
File
Brake Wind-Back Tool
Torque wrench
- 20 to 250 Ft-lbs
- 100 to 600 Ft-lbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Turn off your vehicle’s ignition, set the parking brake, pull the hood release handle, and open the hood.

Step 2: Open the brake fluid reservoir.

Step 3: Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.

Step 4: Lift the front of your vehicle.

Step 5: Place the vehicle on the jack stands.

Step 6: Watch the video on ‘How to jack your RAM 1500 safely‘ before proceeding.

Step 7: Remove the wheels to have full access to change the brake pads.

Step 8: Place the removed wheels under the vehicle.

Step 9: Turn the brake disc inward to facilitate the next steps.

Step 10: Insert a flat head screwdriver into the opening of the brake caliper and lift it off using the screwdriver as a lever.

Step 11: With a socket wrench and a 13mm socket, unscrew the lower slide pin and then remove it. Repeat this process with the upper slide pin.

Step 12: Remove the caliper and attach it to the upper control arm with a clamp or a wire.

Step 13: Slide the old brake pads away from the disc.

Step 14: Clean the caliper mount with a wire brush to make installing the new pads easier.

Step 15: Check the sliding of the brake caliper slide pins and the condition of the caliper slide pin boots. Replace them if worn.

Step 16: Place the new anti-rattle clips on the new pads and coat the ends with copper grease.

Step 17: Insert the new pads into the caliper mount and press on the anti-rattle clips to secure them in place.

Step 18: Press the pistons into the caliper using a clamp or Brake Wind-Back Tool.

Step 19: Put the brake caliper back in place and screw in the slide pins by hand.

Step 20: Use a 17mm spanner to prevent the bolts from rotating and screw them in using a socket wrench and a 13mm socket.

Step 21: Finish tightening the bolts with a torque wrench.

Step 22: Clean both sides of the disc with brake cleaner and a cloth.

Step 23: Repeat the process on the other side.

Step 24: Put the wheels back on the vehicle.

Step 25: Lower the car and block the wheels properly.

Step 26: Screw the brake fluid cap back on.

Step 27: Before using your vehicle again, start the car, and pump the brake pedal a few times to push the brake pads together.

Step 28: Drive smoothly and avoid sudden braking for the first 30 miles to prevent glazing of the new pads.

Step 29: Operation complete.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

Important Reminders

Once the operation is completed, you’ll need pump slowly on the brake pedal a few times until feeling a strong resistance from the pedal. The aim being to bring the brake pads closer to one other.
Don’t burn yourself on the pads if you’ve just gone for a drive as braking creates friction and long-lasting heat.
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden braking for the first 30 miles or so, to avoid glazing the new pads. What do we mean by “glazing new brake pads”? Brake pads are made of a material that needs to be run-in when new. If this procedure is not done properly, when braking too hard, the material overheats and hardens. Consequently, the brakes become less effective.