A Guide to Replacing Disc Brake Pads on Your 2020-2025 Ram 1500
Learn how to choose the right aftermarket brake pads to restore your truck's stopping power and address common issues.
- For rear brake pad replacement, you must use the Uconnect screen to put the electronic parking brake into 'Brake Service Mode' before starting.
- Choose ceramic pads (like Bosch or Akebono) for quiet, low-dust daily driving, or performance/semi-metallic pads (like Powerstop Z36 or Hawk LTS) for heavy towing.
- It is strongly recommended to replace brake rotors at the same time as the pads to ensure safe and optimal performance.
- Always check for recalls related to the ABS and brake system, as several have been issued for this generation of Ram 1500.
Signs Your Ram 1500 Needs New Brake Pads
Your truck will give you several warning signs when the brake pads are getting low. Ignoring them can lead to more expensive repairs, like needing to replace the brake rotors. Be aware of these common symptoms:
- Squealing or Screeching: A high-pitched noise when you apply the brakes is often the first sign. It's caused by a small metal wear indicator built into the brake pad.
- Grinding Noises: If you hear a harsh, metallic grinding sound, it means the brake pad material is completely gone. This is a serious issue where metal is grinding against metal, and it can quickly damage your rotors.
- Vibrations or Pulsing: If you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel when you brake, your brake rotors may have been warped from overheating, a common issue with heavy trucks.
- Longer Stopping Distances: If your truck takes longer to stop than it used to, your brake pads may be worn out or your brake system could have other issues like low fluid.
- Pulling to One Side: When braking, if the truck pulls to the left or right, it could indicate a problem with a sticking brake caliper or uneven pad wear.
Known Issues and Recalls
While there are no specific recalls for the brake pads themselves on 2020-2025 models, Stellantis has issued recalls for related systems. A major recall was issued for over 1.2 million 2019-2024 Ram 1500s for a software issue that could disable the ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems. Some owners of 2025 models have also reported brake system warning lights and, in rare cases, brake failure due to issues with components like the brake system control module or brake hoses. Always check for open recalls on your vehicle using your VIN on the NHTSA website.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
Aftermarket brake pads offer a wider range of options than the original equipment (OEM) parts from the dealer. You can choose pads based on your driving style, whether you prioritize quiet operation, low dust, or heavy-duty performance for towing. Aftermarket pads are often more affordable than OEM pads.
Brake Pad Materials: Ceramic vs. Semi-Metallic
- Ceramic Pads: These are a great choice for daily driving. They are known for being quiet, producing very little brake dust (which keeps your wheels cleaner), and having a long life. Brands like Bosch QuietCast, Akebono, and PowerStop's Z17/Z23 series fall into this category. They are ideal if you primarily use your truck for commuting and light hauling.
- Semi-Metallic/Performance Pads: If you frequently tow, haul heavy loads, or just want more aggressive stopping power, these pads are the better option. Made with metal fibers, they handle heat better and provide a stronger "bite." Brands like Hawk LTS, EBC Greenstuff/Yellowstuff, and PowerStop Z36 (carbon-fiber ceramic designed for trucks) are popular choices for Ram owners who need extra performance. The trade-off can be more brake dust and potentially more noise than ceramic pads.
| Tier | Brands | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Driver / OEM-Quality | Akebono, Bosch, Wagner, Raybestos, Bendix | Quiet, low-dust, reliable stopping for everyday use. A good balance of performance and value. |
| Performance & Towing | Powerstop (Z36), Hawk Performance (LTS), EBC Brakes | Heavy hauling, towing, and spirited driving. Offers improved stopping power and fade resistance. |
| Economy | Dynamic Friction, Total Stopping Solutions | Basic, budget-friendly replacements for light-duty use. |
Pro Tip: Electronic Parking Brake Service
Most 2020-2025 Ram 1500s have an electronic parking brake (EPB). Before you can replace the rear brake pads, you must put the system into "Brake Service Mode." You do not need a special scan tool for this. You can activate it through your truck's Uconnect touchscreen under the vehicle settings menu. After the job is done, you exit service mode by pressing the brake pedal and pulling the EPB switch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to replace my rotors at the same time as my pads?
It is highly recommended. While you can sometimes replace just the pads, installing new pads on old, worn rotors can cause noise, vibrations, and reduced performance. For a heavy truck like the Ram 1500, replacing pads and rotors together ensures the best and safest braking performance. Many aftermarket brands sell convenient kits that include both pads and rotors.
How often should I replace my Ram 1500 brake pads?
The lifespan of your brake pads depends heavily on your driving habits. On average, expect them to last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. If you do a lot of city driving or frequently tow heavy loads, you will likely need to replace them on the sooner side of that range.
What is the "bedding-in" process for new brake pads?
Bedding-in, or breaking in, new pads and rotors is crucial for performance. It involves a series of controlled stops to transfer an even layer of friction material from the pads to the rotors. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the brake pad manufacturer, but it typically involves several moderate stops from around 40-50 mph with a cool-down period in between.
Why are my rear brakes wearing out faster than the front?
While front brakes traditionally do most of the work, some Ram 1500 owners have noticed their rear brakes wearing out first. This can be due to the truck's traction control, stability control, and auto-leveling systems, which can use the rear brakes to manage stability and ride height, especially when towing. Snug-fitting pads in the retaining clips have also been noted as a potential cause of accelerated wear.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Brake pad replacement on the 2020-2025 Ram 1500 requires putting the electronic parking brake into service mode via the infotainment screen for rear pad replacement. Common tools needed include 12mm, 13mm, and 21mm sockets, a torque wrench, and a brake piston compression tool (or C-clamp). Torque specs are approximately 25-31 ft-lbs for caliper slide pins and 130 ft-lbs for wheel lug nuts.
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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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