How to Change Brake Pads on 2012 Dodge Journey
Changing the brake pads on your 2012 Dodge Journey is a task that can be accomplished by most car owners with basic mechanical skills. Regularly replacing the brake pads is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing brake pads on a 2012 Dodge Journey, ensuring that you can perform this maintenance task confidently.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
– Jack and jack stands
– Lug wrench
– Socket set (including sockets for brake calipers and rotors)
– Wrench set
– Replacement brake pads
– Grease
– Clean rag
Step 1: Preparation
1. Park your Dodge Journey on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Place wheel chocks behind the tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Loosen the lug nuts slightly, but do not remove them yet.
Step 2: Jack Up the Vehicle
1. Locate the jack point under the vehicle, typically behind the front wheel on the frame.
2. Place the jack under the jack point and secure it with the lug nuts.
3. Raise the vehicle until the tire is off the ground.
4. Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides of the vehicle for safety.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel
1. Remove the lug nuts and wheel bolts completely.
2. Pull the wheel off the vehicle and set it aside.
Step 4: Remove the Caliper
1. Locate the brake caliper bolt, which is usually a 15mm bolt, and remove it using a socket and wrench.
2. Slide the caliper off the rotor, being careful not to drop it.
Step 5: Remove the Old Brake Pads
1. Take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
2. Clean the caliper bracket and the new brake pads with a clean rag.
Step 6: Install the New Brake Pads
1. Apply a small amount of grease to the back of the new brake pads to prevent corrosion.
2. Slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are properly seated.
3. Reattach the caliper to the bracket using the caliper bolt and tighten it securely.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel and Lower the Vehicle
1. Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle using the jack and remove the jack stands.
3. Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
Step 8: Test the Brakes
1. Start the engine and test the brakes by gently pressing the pedal a few times.
2. Take your Dodge Journey for a short drive to ensure the brakes are functioning correctly.
Congratulations! You have successfully changed the brake pads on your 2012 Dodge Journey. Regular maintenance of your vehicle’s braking system is essential for safe driving, so remember to replace the brake pads at the recommended intervals.
