Replacing front brake pads on a chrysler town & country/dodge caravan

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of replacing the front brake pads on a Chrysler Town & Country or Dodge Caravan. This task is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance. Following these steps will help you save money on repairs and gain a better understanding of your vehicle’s braking system.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

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

• New brake pads (available here)
• Slide grease (available here)
• Loctite (available here)
• Jack and jack stands
• Lug wrench
• C-clamp or brake caliper tool
• Ratchet and socket set
• Brake cleaner
• Safety glasses and gloves

Tip: Always work on a flat, stable surface and wear appropriate safety gear.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

1. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels while the vehicle is still on the ground.
2. Position the jack under the vehicle's jacking point and lift it until the front wheels are off the ground.
3. Secure the vehicle with jack stands for safety.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

1. Once elevated, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
2. Set the wheel aside in a safe place.

Step 4: Access the Brake Caliper

1. Locate the brake caliper holding the brake pads in place.
2. Remove the bolts securing the caliper using the ratchet and socket.
3. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it using a bungee cord or similar tool to avoid stress on the brake line.

Step 5: Remove Old Brake Pads

1. Take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
2. Inspect the caliper for wear and ensure that the surface is clean.

Step 6: Compress the Caliper Piston

1. Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston back into its housing.
2. This creates enough space for the new, thicker brake pads.

Step 7: Install New Brake Pads

1. Apply a thin layer of slide grease to the back of the new brake pads to prevent noise.
2. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they fit snugly.

Step 8: Reattach the Brake Caliper

1. Carefully slide the caliper back over the new brake pads.
2. Reinstall the caliper bolts and tighten them securely.

Step 9: Reinstall the Wheel

1. Place the wheel back onto the hub.
2. Hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle.

Step 10: Lower the Vehicle and Finalize Installation

1. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
2. Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brake pads on your Chrysler Town & Country or Dodge Caravan. Make sure to pump the brake pedal a few times before driving to ensure proper brake function. Regular maintenance of your braking system is crucial for vehicle safety, so consider checking your brakes regularly. If you encounter any issues during the process, consult a professional mechanic.