How often should I replace the brakes on my RAM 1500?

The recommended brake replacement interval for a RAM 1500 varies depending on your driving habits and conditions, but most manufacturers suggest replacing the brake pads every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, it's important to regularly inspect your brakes and replace them as needed to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

Understanding Brake Wear on a RAM 1500

The brake pads on your RAM 1500 are designed to wear down over time as you use your brakes. The rate of wear depends on several factors, including:

• Driving Conditions: If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving, towing heavy loads, or driving in hilly terrain, your brakes will wear down faster than if you have a more relaxed driving style.


• Brake Pad Material: The type of brake pads installed on your RAM 1500 can also affect their lifespan. Some pads are designed for longer wear, while others may wear down more quickly.


• Maintenance and Inspection: Regular brake inspections and proper maintenance, such as keeping your brake fluid fresh, can help extend the life of your brake pads.

It's important to note that the brake rotors on your RAM 1500 may also need to be replaced periodically, typically every 50,000 to 70,000 miles, or when the rotors become too thin or uneven.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your RAM 1500's Brakes

Here are some common signs that it's time to replace the brake pads on your RAM 1500:

• Squeaking or Grinding Noises: As the brake pads wear down, you may hear a high-pitched squeaking or a low-pitched grinding noise when you apply the brakes.


• Reduced Braking Performance: If your RAM 1500 takes longer to stop or feels less responsive when you press the brake pedal, it could be a sign that the brake pads are worn.


• Visible Wear: You can often visually inspect the brake pads through the wheel spokes. If the pads are less than 1/4 inch thick, it's time to replace them.

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to have your RAM 1500's brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to ensure your safety and prevent further damage to your vehicle.

What year RAM 1500 5.7 to avoid?

Years to avoid for the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 include 2011-2012, primarily for "Hemi tick" and lifter issues, and 2014, due to reports of catastrophic steering failures. Other years to approach with caution are 2018-2019, due to electrical and infotainment system problems, and 2004 and 2013-2015, which have documented issues with engine stalling and transmission failures, respectively.
 
Years to be cautious of

• 2011-2012: Notorious for "Hemi tick" from failed lifters or other engine issues. 2011 also had reports of engine failure, MDS issues, and water pump failures. 
• 2013-2015: Documented severe transmission failures, particularly in 2013 and 2015 models. 2015 also had numerous recalls and problems with its electrical, transmission, engine, and fuel systems. 
• 2014: Several complaints have logged total steering loss, sometimes at highway speeds. 
• 2018-2019: Reports of issues with electrical and infotainment systems are more common. 
• 2004: Engine stalling issues persisted, and there were power train concerns. 

What to look for in a reliable Hemi Ram 1500

• 2010: Generally has better engine reliability, though it was known for a weak engine combined with poor fuel economy. 
• 2018 and newer: The 5.7L Hemi V-8 is considered more reliable in these years. 
• 2020 and newer: Models have fewer issues than late 2010s versions. 
• Ram 1500 Classic models: These are also reported to do well, having fewer complex systems than the redesigned 2019 and newer models. 

How often should rotors be replaced on a RAM 1500?

30,000 - 80,000 miles
Ordinarily, Ram 1500 Classic rotors need to be absolutely replaced each 30,000 - 80,000 miles depending on the factors above.

How many miles do brakes last on a RAM 1500?

30,000 - 60,000 miles
Wear and tear on your brakes depends considerably on your driving habits and the type of brake pads your Ram 1500 has, but normally front brakes wear out before rear breaks at 30,000 - 60,000 miles because they are ordinarily under much less stress.

How much should a brake job cost in a RAM 1500?

The cost to replace the brakes on a Dodge Ram 1500 typically ranges from $300 to over $1,000, depending on whether you replace just the pads or the pads and rotors, as well as the type of parts and labor rates. A basic brake pad replacement on one axle could cost between $150 and $300, while a complete four-wheel brake job (pads and rotors) can cost anywhere from $300 to $800 or more. 
Cost breakdown

• Brake pads only:
  • Replacing brake pads on a single axle can cost between $150 and $300, including parts and labor. 
  • A set of high-quality or luxury brake pads can cost $150-$250, while other pads might be between $75-$120, plus labor. 
• Brake pads and rotors:
  • Pads and rotors on one axle: This service can cost around $300 to $750 for just the rotors and pads, including labor. 
  • Four-wheel brake job: A complete replacement of pads and rotors for all four wheels typically falls in the range of $300 to $800, but can exceed $1,000 due to part costs or complex labor. 
• Factors influencing cost:
  • Labor rates: Shop and location play a significant role, with some areas having higher costs. 
  • Part quality: Using OEM parts versus aftermarket parts will affect the final price. 
  • Additional repairs: If rotors are severely worn, they will need to be replaced instead of being resurfaced, which will increase the cost by around $300 or more for each set of rotors, notes Quora. 

Signs that your brakes need replacing

• A shaky steering wheel when you brake.
• Difficulty stopping.
• A loud scraping or grinding sound when you brake.
• You may notice a thin layer of brake dust on your wheels, which can indicate that the pads are wearing down.