15-22 Dodge Challenger Front Pads & Rotors Replacement

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the front brake pads and rotors on a 15-22 Dodge Challenger. This procedure applies to all models equipped with dual piston front calipers, including some V8 models, and is particularly relevant for those looking to maintain or improve their vehicle's braking performance.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you start, ensure you have the following tools and materials ready:

• Jack and jack stands
• Tire iron
• Impact gun or breaker bar
• Electric ratchet (optional)
• C-clamp
• Brake components grease
• New brake pads and rotors (check fitment guide)
• Brake parts cleaner (if applicable)
• Mini sledgehammer (if necessary)

Step 2: Prepare Your Vehicle

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts:

   • With the vehicle on the ground, use a tire iron to loosen each lug nut by a half turn.

2. Raise the Vehicle:

   • Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the car is stable before proceeding.

3. Remove the Wheel:

   • Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 3: Remove the Caliper and Bracket

1. Access the Caliper:

   • Identify the two large bolts on the back of the caliper. These typically hold the caliper to the bracket.

2. Unscrew the Bolts:

   • Use a breaker bar or impact gun to loosen the bolts. If they are tight, consider using penetrating oil to ease removal.

3. Detach the Caliper:

   • Once the bolts are removed, slide the caliper off the rotor. Do not let it hang from the brake line; use a block to support it.

4. Remove the Bracket:

   • If replacing the rotor, you'll need to remove the bracket. Unscrew the bolts and detach the bracket carefully.

Step 4: Replace the Rotor

1. Remove the Old Rotor:

   • If the rotor is stuck, gently tap it with a mini sledgehammer to break it free. Avoid damaging the surrounding components.

2. Prepare for New Rotor:

   • Clean the mounting surface where the new rotor will sit to ensure a good fit.

3. Install the New Rotor:

   • Place the new rotor onto the hub and align it properly.

Step 5: Install New Brake Pads

1. Push Back the Pistons:

   • Remove one of the brake pads and use a C-clamp to compress the pistons back into the caliper. Do this slowly and evenly on both sides.

2. Install New Pads:

   • Insert the new pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure that the orientation is correct and that any squealer tabs are positioned appropriately.

Step 6: Reassemble the Brakes

1. Reattach the Bracket:

   • Place the bracket back onto the rotor and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications (generally 70 ft-lbs).

2. Reinstall the Caliper:

   • Slide the caliper over the new pads and rotor. Tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque (typically 44 ft-lbs).

Step 7: Finalize the Installation

1. Reattach the Wheel:

   • Place the wheel back on, hand-tightening the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle:

   • Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands, then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to avoid warping the rotor.

3. Torque Specifications:

   • Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications, which generally range around 80-115 ft-lbs, but 100 ft-lbs is often a safe choice.

Step 8: Brake System Check

1. Check Brake Fluid:

   • Remove the cap from the brake fluid reservoir and check the fluid level. Add fluid if necessary.

2. Pump the Brakes:

   • With the vehicle on the ground, pump the brake pedal slowly several times to ensure the new pads make contact with the rotors.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brake pads and rotors on your Dodge Challenger. Remember to check the rear brakes if you're planning a complete brake service. Regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial for safety and performance, so consider checking your brake components periodically. If you found this guide helpful, be sure to explore more tutorials for other vehicle maintenance tasks.