A Guide to Replacing Rear Brake Drums on a 2008-2010 Dodge Avenger
If your Avenger's rear brakes are making noise or feel weak, it might be time for new drums.
- The 2008-2010 Dodge Avenger uses rear drum brakes on SE and SXT models.
- Always replace brake drums in pairs to ensure safe, balanced braking.
- A grinding noise or pulsating pedal are clear signs that your brake drums need immediate inspection.
- OEM-quality aftermarket brands like Centric and Raybestos offer a great balance of performance and value for most owners.
Is Your Avenger's Braking Performance Fading?
The rear brake drums on your 2008-2010 Dodge Avenger are a critical part of its stopping system. Over time, the inside surface of the drum wears down from the friction of the brake shoes. A worn or damaged drum can't provide the stopping power you need and can lead to unsafe driving conditions. If you notice any of the symptoms below, it's time to inspect your rear brakes.
🎬 Watch: A mechanic inspects and replaces worn Avenger rear brakes.Symptoms of a Worn or Failing Brake Drum
Paying attention to your car's sounds and feelings can help you catch brake problems early. Here are the most common signs that your Avenger's brake drums need to be replaced:
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A loud, metallic scraping sound from the rear wheels when you brake is a serious warning. It usually means the brake shoes have worn completely away and metal is grinding against the drum, causing damage.
- Pulsating Brake Pedal: If you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal or through the car when you brake, the drum may be "out-of-round." This means its shape is no longer perfectly circular, causing uneven braking.
- Soft or Spongy Pedal: A brake pedal that feels mushy or goes closer to the floor than usual can be a sign of worn drums. The brake shoes have to travel farther to make contact, resulting in a weak pedal feel.
- Parking Brake Issues: If your parking brake doesn't hold the car securely, it could be because the drums are too worn for the shoes to grab effectively.
Brake System Recall Notice
For 2010 Dodge Avenger models, there was a recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 10V009000) for a potentially missing or improperly formed brake booster input rod retaining clip. This could lead to a complete loss of service brakes. While this recall does not directly involve the brake drums, it highlights the importance of ensuring your entire brake system is in safe working order. A professional mechanic can check if this recall service has been performed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Drum
When shopping for new brake drums, you don't have to buy expensive OEM parts to get good quality. Aftermarket brands offer a wide range of options that meet or exceed factory specifications. They can be grouped into different quality tiers.
Economy Brands (Good for Daily Driving):
- Pronto: A solid choice for drivers on a budget who need reliable, basic stopping power for everyday use.
- Dynamic Friction: Offers affordable options that get the job done for normal commuting.
OEM-Quality Brands (Recommended for Most Owners):
- Centric: A popular and well-regarded brand that offers good quality and performance for the price. Many technicians use Centric parts as a reliable alternative to OEM.
- Raybestos: A long-standing name in brakes, Raybestos provides dependable, durable drums that are a safe bet for any Avenger owner.
- ACDelco: Known for making parts with excellent durability that are designed to minimize heat and vibration.
- Bendix: Another trusted brand that produces quality brake components.
Specialty Brands:
- Crown Automotive: Specializes in parts for Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, offering replacements that are very close to the original factory design.
- Brembo: While famous for high-performance disc brakes, if a Brembo drum is available, it will be a premium, high-quality product.
Pro Tip: Always replace brake drums in pairs. Replacing just one can cause unbalanced braking, making your car pull to one side when you stop. Also, it's highly recommended to replace the brake shoes and hardware kit at the same time as the drums to ensure the whole system works together perfectly.
Brake Drum Replacement Cost for 2008-2010 Dodge Avenger
The cost of replacing your brake drums will depend on the parts you choose and local labor rates. Below is an estimated breakdown of costs.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Drums (Pair) | $80 - $210 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Brake Drums (Pair) | $230 - $330 |
| Shop Labor | $122 - $179 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Aftermarket Parts) | $202 - $389 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 2008-2010 Avenger trims have rear drum brakes?
The rear drum brake system was typically installed on the base model SE and some SXT trims for the 2008-2010 Dodge Avenger. Higher-level trims like the R/T came with four-wheel disc brakes.
Can I just replace the brake shoes and not the drums?
You can, but it's not always a good idea. If the old drums are worn, grooved, or out-of-round, they will cause your new shoes to wear out very quickly and perform poorly. It's best to have the drums measured by a mechanic. If they are within the specified thickness, they can sometimes be "machined" (resurfaced) for a flat, even surface. If not, they must be replaced.
Is it hard to replace brake drums myself?
For a DIYer with some experience, replacing brake drums is manageable. It is more complex than a disc brake job due to the springs and hardware inside the drum. 🎬 Watch: A teardown of the rear drum and hardware assembly. You will need specific tools like a jack, jack stands, and possibly a brake spring tool. If you are not comfortable, it's a straightforward job for any professional mechanic.
What does the OEM Mopar part number for the rear drum?
The common Mopar part number for the rear brake drum for this generation of Dodge Avenger is 05105617AC. Always confirm the part number with your vehicle's VIN before ordering.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 05105617AC 5105617AC
The Dodge Avenger from this period uses a rear drum brake system on specific trims. The drums are made of cast iron and work with internal brake shoes. Always verify fitment with your vehicle's specific trim level (SE or SXT) before purchasing.
We Have This Part in Stock
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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