A Guide to Replacing Disc Brake Calipers on the 2007-2014 Dodge Avenger
Everything you need to know before buying new aftermarket brake calipers for your Avenger.
- A seized caliper slide pin is a very common failure on the 2007-2014 Avenger, leading to uneven pad wear.
- Always replace calipers in pairs (both fronts or both rears) to maintain balanced braking.
- Choose a coated aftermarket caliper from a brand like PowerStop, Raybestos Element3, or Cardone Ultra to prevent rust, which is a common issue with uncoated remanufactured parts.
- Replacing the brake pads, rotors, and bleeding the brake system are required steps when installing a new caliper.
Is It Time for a New Brake Caliper?
Brake calipers are built to last a long time, but they can fail. On the Dodge Avenger, a common point of failure is the caliper slide pins, which can seize up from rust and old grease. When this happens, the caliper can't move freely, leading to uneven brake pad wear and other problems. The caliper piston itself can also get stuck or leak. Ignoring these issues can lead to poor stopping performance and more expensive repairs down the line.
Signs of a Failing Brake Caliper
- Car Pulls to One Side: When you brake, a stuck caliper can cause the car to pull towards the side with the working brake.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If you check your brake pads and one is significantly more worn than the other on the same wheel, it's a classic sign of a seized caliper slide pin. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose a seized brake caliper yourself.
- Brake Dragging or Spongy Pedal: A caliper that doesn't release properly will cause the brake pad to drag on the rotor, which you might feel as resistance while driving. A leaking caliper can introduce air into the system, leading to a soft or spongy brake pedal.
- Visible Brake Fluid Leak: Fluid leaking around the wheel or on the inner side of the tire is a serious sign of a failed caliper seal.
- Grinding or Squealing Noises: While often a sign of worn pads, persistent noise can also come from a caliper that is not functioning correctly.
- Burning Smell or Smoke: A severely stuck caliper can generate extreme heat from the constant friction, leading to a burning smell and sometimes visible smoke from the wheel area.
Known Issues for 2007-2014 Dodge Avenger
While there are no widespread recalls for brake calipers across the entire 2007-2014 model range, a notable issue is the tendency for caliper slide pins to seize, especially in regions that use road salt. This leads to brake dragging and rapid, uneven pad wear. Some owners also report issues with premature rotor warping, which can be made worse by a faulty caliper. There was a specific safety recall (NHTSA #G35) for improperly manufactured front brake calipers on some 2007-2008 models, which could break and increase stopping distance. It is crucial to check if your specific vehicle was part of this recall.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing a front brake caliper.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper
When shopping for a new caliper for your Avenger, you'll see two main types: new and remanufactured. You'll also see options for coated or uncoated calipers. Understanding the difference is key to making the right choice.
New vs. Remanufactured Calipers
- New Aftermarket Calipers: These are made with 100% new components. They often don't require a "core charge," meaning you don't have to return your old part. Brands like Dynamic Friction and Raybestos offer new calipers that are a popular choice.
- Remanufactured Calipers: These are original equipment (OEM) caliper bodies that have been cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt with new seals, boots, and other wear components. They are often cheaper but require a core charge. The quality can be inconsistent, sometimes described as "hit or miss."
Coated Calipers are Worth It
A frequent complaint about remanufactured calipers is that they rust quickly because the original protective coating is stripped off during rebuilding. To avoid this, look for calipers with a protective coating. Brands like PowerStop (red powder coat), Cardone (Ultra line with silver coating), and Raybestos (Element3 line with a grey coating) offer coated options that resist corrosion and look better behind the wheels.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Your Avenger
Not all aftermarket brands are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of available brands to help you decide.
- Premium Aftermarket (New & Coated Reman): PowerStop, Raybestos (Element3), and Dynamic Friction are strong choices. PowerStop is well-regarded for its complete kits, often including red powder-coated calipers for corrosion resistance and a performance look. Raybestos Element3 offers new calipers with a protective coating that get positive reviews for quality and fit. Dynamic Friction also offers new calipers that are seen as a good quality option.
- Standard Aftermarket (Reman): This tier includes brands like Cardone, Centric, and BBB Industries. Cardone is a massive remanufacturer, but their quality can be inconsistent; their coated "Ultra" line is generally better regarded than their standard remans. Centric calipers are considered decent and functional, but their standard remanufactured units are known to rust quickly if uncoated.
- OEM & OEM-Alternative: Mopar is the original equipment manufacturer and offers a direct-fit, high-quality part, though usually at the highest price. Mopar also has a line of competitively priced aftermarket parts called bproauto, which are 100% new and backed by a solid warranty. Crown Automotive specializes in Chrysler-family vehicle parts and is generally considered a reputable OEM-alternative brand.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a brake caliper on your Dodge Avenger will vary based on the part you choose and local labor rates. It is highly recommended to replace calipers in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even braking performance.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Caliper (Single) | $52 - $184 |
| Remanufactured Caliper (Single) | $55 - $120 (plus refundable core charge) |
| Shop Labor (Per Axle) | $150 - $300 |
| Total Job (Aftermarket, DIY, Per Axle) | $110 - $370 |
| Total Job (Aftermarket, Pro Install, Per Axle) | $260 - $670 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace just one caliper?
It is always recommended to replace calipers in pairs on the same axle (both front or both rear). This ensures balanced braking power and prevents the car from pulling to one side. Since the calipers are the same age, if one has failed, the other may not be far behind.
Do I need to replace my rotors and pads with the caliper?
Yes, it is highly recommended. A failed caliper almost always damages the brake pads and rotor on that wheel. Installing a new caliper with a worn or warped rotor and old pads will lead to poor performance and will quickly wear out the new components.
What is a caliper bracket and do I need a new one?
The caliper bracket is what holds the caliper to the steering knuckle. Many new and remanufactured calipers come "loaded" with the bracket already attached and new slide pins installed. This is often the easiest option. If your caliper doesn't include a bracket, you can reuse your old one, but you must clean it thoroughly and lubricate the slide pins properly.
Do I have to bleed the brakes after replacing a caliper?
Yes, absolutely. Whenever you disconnect a brake line, air enters the system. You must bleed the brake system to remove all air bubbles. Failure to do so will result in a spongy pedal and dangerously reduced stopping power.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4766719AC 5191249AC 5191248AC 68029849AD 68029848AD
The 2007-2014 Dodge Avenger uses single-piston floating calipers on both the front and rear axles. There are two different sizes of brake rotors and corresponding calipers depending on the trim and model year, so it is essential to verify the correct size before ordering. Many aftermarket calipers come loaded with a new bracket and pre-lubricated slide pins.
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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.
- Dodge Avenger:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is It Time for a New Brake Caliper?
- Signs of a Failing Brake Caliper
- Known Issues for 2007-2014 Dodge Avenger
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper
- New vs. Remanufactured Calipers
- Coated Calipers are Worth It
- Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Your Avenger
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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