Guide to Replacing Disc Brake Calipers on a 1987-2000 Dodge Grand Caravan
Understanding common failure points and choosing the right replacement caliper for your first, second, or third-generation Grand Caravan.
- Sticking slide pins are the most common cause of caliper failure on these vans, leading to uneven pad wear and pulling.
- Always replace calipers in pairs (both fronts or both rears) to ensure balanced braking and safety.
- Remanufactured calipers from reputable brands like Raybestos or Centric offer a reliable and cost-effective solution for this vehicle.
- Brake bleeding is a mandatory step after caliper replacement to remove air from the hydraulic lines.
Common Problems with Grand Caravan Calipers
Owners of 1987-2000 Dodge Grand Caravans often report issues with brake calipers, especially as these vehicles age. The most frequent problem is a seized or sticking caliper. This can be caused by corrosion on the caliper piston or, more commonly, the slide pins. When the slide pins freeze up due to rust and old grease, the caliper can't move freely. This leads to one brake pad wearing out much faster than the other, and the van may pull to one side when you brake. A burning smell after driving is another tell-tale sign of a dragging brake.
A Note on Recalls
While there was a significant recall for anti-lock brake systems (ABS) on 1991-1993 models, it concerned the Bendix-10 ABS controller, not the calipers themselves. Later model year Grand Caravans (2018-2019) had a recall for rear caliper pistons, but this does not apply to the 1987-2000 generation. No specific caliper recalls were found for the 1987-2000 model years during research.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper
For a vehicle of this age, new OEM Mopar calipers are generally not available or practical to source. The aftermarket is your best bet, offering a wide range of remanufactured and new options that often meet or exceed original quality. Most aftermarket calipers for this van are remanufactured, meaning an original factory part has been disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt with new seals, boots, and pistons.
Loaded vs. Unloaded Calipers
When shopping, you'll see "loaded" and "unloaded" (or semi-loaded) calipers. A loaded caliper comes complete with new brake pads and all the necessary mounting hardware, making the job quicker. An unloaded caliper is just the caliper itself, which is fine if you plan to buy your preferred brake pads separately.
Brand Quality Tiers
While individual experiences can vary, the available brands generally fall into these categories based on reputation in forums and reviews:
- Premium Aftermarket (Powerstop): Often come with powder coatings for better rust protection and are paired with high-performance pads and rotors in kits. They are typically remanufactured stock calipers but are rebuilt to a high standard with quality components. 🎬 Watch a review and installation of a PowerStop brake kit.
- OEM-Quality Aftermarket (Raybestos, Centric, Dynamic Friction): These brands are well-regarded for providing reliable, daily-driver quality parts. Raybestos, in particular, sometimes offers completely new calipers, not just remanufactured ones, which eliminates concerns about the age of the core part. Centric is also a solid choice known for good quality control on their remanufactured parts.
- Standard/Value Aftermarket (Cardone, BBB Industries): These are widely available and budget-friendly options. Cardone is one of the largest remanufacturers. While many have used them without issue, some users report concerns about finish quality and longevity 🎬 See a comparison of the best brake calipers available today. compared to premium brands. They can provide good value, especially for an older vehicle.
Pro Tip: Phenolic vs. Steel Pistons
You will see calipers offered with either phenolic (a type of composite resin) or steel pistons. Phenolic pistons are lighter and don't transfer heat as much as steel, which can help prevent brake fluid from boiling. They also won't corrode inside the caliper bore. Steel pistons are stronger but can rust over time. For most Grand Caravan owners, a caliper with a phenolic piston is an excellent choice for durability and performance.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $37.97 - $119.94 |
| Remanufactured Aftermarket | $37.97 - $95.00 (Included in aftermarket range) |
| Shop Labor for Replacement | $100 - $200 per caliper |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I replace my brake calipers in pairs?
Yes, it is highly recommended to replace calipers in pairs (both front or both rear). Since both calipers have the same amount of wear and have been exposed to the same conditions, the other side is likely not far from failing. Replacing only one can cause uneven braking and make the vehicle pull to the side with the new caliper.
What is a "core charge"?
Most remanufactured calipers have a core charge. This is a deposit you pay when you buy the part. You get this deposit back when you return your old, worn-out caliper to the store. This process allows the manufacturers to rebuild your old part for the next customer.
Do I need to bleed the brakes after replacing a caliper?
Absolutely. Any time the hydraulic system is opened (like when you disconnect the brake hose from the caliper), air gets into the lines. You must bleed the brake system to remove this air and ensure a firm brake pedal and safe operation.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step guide to replacing your front brake calipers.What are the most common signs of a bad caliper?
The most common signs are the vehicle pulling to one side when braking, a burning smell from the wheels after driving, a spongy or soft brake pedal, visible brake fluid leaks around the wheel, and uneven brake pad wear where the inner pad is much more worn than the outer pad.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4728110
Fits 1987-2000 Dodge Grand Caravan. Available with phenolic or steel pistons. Sold as loaded (with pads) or unloaded (caliper only). Most are remanufactured and require a core return.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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