The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Pulsating Brakes & Squealing on 2018 Ram 1500 - Time for Rotors?

0

Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Ram 1500 Rebel 5.7L Hemi

My 2018 Ram 1500 Rebel (5.7L Hemi) has about 70,000 miles on it, and I'm experiencing some pretty annoying brake issues. When I apply the brakes, especially at higher speeds, the pedal pulsates noticeably, and I'm getting a high-pitched squeal from the front end. The truck also feels like it's vibrating a bit when braking.

I replaced the pads myself about 20,000 miles ago, but I didn't touch the rotors. Could the rotors be warped, or is there something else I should be looking at? What's the typical lifespan for rotors on these trucks, especially with the larger tires on the Rebel?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:36 AM

0

The symptoms you're describing – pulsating brake pedal, squealing, and vibration during braking – are classic indicators of issues with your brake rotors, especially since you replaced the pads but not the rotors 20,000 miles ago. Rotors have a finite lifespan, and reusing old rotors with new pads can sometimes accelerate their wear or highlight existing issues.

Here's a breakdown of what's likely happening and what to check:

  1. Warped Rotors (Runout): The most common cause of a pulsating pedal is excessive rotor runout, often referred to as 'warped' rotors. This isn't usually true warping from heat, but rather uneven wear or material transfer on the rotor surface, causing variations in thickness. When the brake pads contact these uneven surfaces, you feel the pulsation through the pedal.
  2. Rotor Thickness: Rotors have a minimum thickness specification. If they are worn below this, they can't dissipate heat effectively, leading to issues like pulsation and reduced braking performance. At 70,000 miles, and 20,000 miles on old rotors with new pads, it's highly probable they are worn thin.
  3. Brake Pad Wear/Contamination: While you replaced pads recently, ensure they haven't worn unevenly or become contaminated with grease or fluid. Uneven pad wear can sometimes be a symptom of rotor issues, not just the cause.
  4. Squealing: Squealing often indicates worn pads (though you replaced them), lack of proper lubrication on caliper pins, or sometimes, a worn rotor surface interacting poorly with the pads. Ensure all brake hardware was properly lubricated during the last pad change.
  5. Caliper Issues: Less common, but a sticking caliper piston or seized guide pins can cause uneven pad wear, rotor overheating, and ultimately, pulsation and noise.

When to See a Shop: Given the mileage and symptoms, it's highly recommended to replace both the front brake pads and rotors. For a Ram 1500 Rebel, consider upgrading to quality aftermarket rotors (e.g., slotted or drilled) and ceramic pads for improved performance and longevity, especially if you tow or drive aggressively. If, after replacing pads and rotors, the pulsation or squealing persists, or if you notice any fluid leaks around the calipers, it's time to visit a professional mechanic. They can diagnose more complex issues like master cylinder problems, ABS system faults, or sticking calipers that might not be obvious.

Menu

Help & account