A Guide to Replacing Disc Brake Pads on the 2019-2025 Jeep Compass
Understand the signs of brake pad wear and learn how to choose the right aftermarket replacements for your Compass.
- You must use the 'Brake Service Mode' in the Uconnect system to retract the electronic parking brake before replacing the rear pads.
- Listen for high-pitched squealing as an early warning, but a grinding noise means you need to stop driving and replace the pads immediately.
- For most drivers, a quality ceramic pad from a brand like Akebono or Bosch offers the best balance of quiet operation, low dust, and reliable stopping power.
- Always consider replacing your brake rotors at the same time as your pads for the best and safest performance.
Is It Time for New Brake Pads?
Your Jeep Compass will give you several warning signs when the brake pads are nearing the end of their life. Ignoring these signs can lead to reduced stopping power and more expensive repairs down the road. Common symptoms include a high-pitched squealing noise when you brake, which is often caused by a built-in wear indicator. If you hear a grinding sound, it's a more serious issue, indicating the pads may be completely worn away and you have metal-on-metal contact between the caliper and the rotor. Other signs include a vibrating or pulsating brake pedal, your vehicle pulling to one side when braking, or simply taking longer to stop than it used to.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
For the 2019-2025 Jeep Compass, a few brake-related items have been noted. A recall (NHTSA ID: U86) was issued for some 2018-2019 models due to rear brake caliper pistons that could reduce brake performance; the fix involves a dealer bleeding the brake system. Additionally, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #9004183) was released for the 2019 model year to address concerns of vibration or pulsation while braking, which could require replacing front pads and rotors. Owners have also reported intermittent squealing noises, even on newer models with pads that appear to be in good condition.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
When replacing your brake pads, you don't have to stick with the original Mopar parts. The aftermarket offers a wide range of options that can provide similar or even better performance, often at a lower cost. They generally fall into three categories:
1. Economy / Daily Driver Pads
These are budget-friendly options perfect for normal daily commuting. They offer reliable, quiet performance that meets or exceeds factory specifications for everyday use. Brands in this tier focus on value and consistent, low-dust braking.
- Wagner Brakes: Known for their OEX line, Wagner provides vehicle-specific formulations that aim to reduce noise and deliver consistent braking.
- Centric: Often considered a benchmark for OEM-quality replacement parts, offering a good balance of performance and price.
- Raybestos: A long-standing brand offering reliable pads for everyday driving situations.
2. Premium / OEM-Quality Pads
These pads are for the owner who wants performance equal to or better than the original Mopar pads. They often use advanced ceramic or semi-metallic formulas for improved stopping power, lower dust, and quieter operation.
- Akebono: As an original equipment supplier for many automakers, Akebono pads are known for their quiet operation and low-dust ceramic formulations.
- Bosch: The QuietCast line is a popular choice, using rubber-core shims to reduce noise and providing strong, reliable stopping power with low dust.
- Advics: Another OEM supplier, Advics provides high-quality pads that are engineered to restore original factory performance.
3. Performance / Heavy-Duty Pads
If you tow with your Compass, live in a mountainous area, or simply want the best possible stopping power, performance pads are the way to go. These often feature carbon-fiber ceramic compounds for superior heat dissipation and bite.
- Powerstop: The Z-series (like the Z16, Z23, or Z36 Truck & Tow) are very popular for their increased stopping power, especially in kits that include drilled and slotted rotors.
- EBC Brakes: Offers various compounds from daily driver to high-performance, allowing you to choose based on your specific needs.
- Brembo: While famous for high-end racing brakes, Brembo also offers premium replacement pads that provide excellent performance for daily driving and spirited use.
A Note on the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
Your 2019-2025 Jeep Compass is equipped with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). You cannot simply compress the rear brake calipers with a C-clamp like on older vehicles. You must first put the system into 'Brake Service Mode' using the Uconnect infotainment screen. This retracts the electronic mechanism, allowing you to safely replace the rear pads. After the job is done, you exit service mode through the same menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my brake rotors at the same time?
It is highly recommended. If your rotors are warped (causing a pulsation in the pedal), have visible grooves, or are worn below the minimum thickness stamped on the rotor itself, they must be replaced. Installing new pads on old, worn rotors will reduce braking performance and cause the new pads to wear out prematurely.
What is the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic pads?
Ceramic pads are known for being quiet, producing very little brake dust, and being gentle on rotors. They are great for daily driving. Semi-metallic pads offer better performance in a wider range of temperatures and can provide a firmer pedal feel, but they tend to be noisier and create more dust.
How much does it cost to replace the brake pads on a Jeep Compass?
DIY costs for a set of front or rear aftermarket pads range from about $35 to $145. If you have a shop perform the work, expect to pay between $250 and $500 per axle (front or rear), including parts and labor.
How often should I replace my brake pads?
There is no set interval; it depends entirely on your driving style, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the pad material. A general guideline is to have them inspected every 10,000-15,000 miles. Most pads should last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68346917AB 68346917AA 68379582AB 68353597AC
Brake pad replacement requires putting the vehicle into 'Brake Service Mode' via the infotainment screen to retract the electronic parking brake for rear pad service.
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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.
- Jeep Compass:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is It Time for New Brake Pads?
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
- 1. Economy / Daily Driver Pads
- 2. Premium / OEM-Quality Pads
- 3. Performance / Heavy-Duty Pads
- A Note on the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
- Frequently Asked Questions
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