what causes my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) to shake when I brake

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

568 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix brake shaking issues in the 2019 Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always engage the parking brake and use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Allow brakes to cool before inspection or service to avoid burns.

Symptoms

•Steering wheel shakes during braking
•Vibration felt through the brake pedal
•Vehicle pulls to one side while braking
•Increased brake dust accumulation
•Noise or grinding sound during braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or damage using a dial indicator.
2
Check brake pads for uneven wear or contamination.
3
Examine suspension components (control arms, ball joints, tie rods) for wear or damage.
4
Look for wheel alignment issues by checking tire wear patterns.
5
Verify tire balance and inspect for any visible defects or bulges.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Dial indicator
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Brake cleaner
•Jack
•Jack stands
•Brake grease
•Tire pressure gauge
•Alignment tools

Parts Required

•Brake rotors (if warped)
•Brake pads (if worn)
•Suspension components (if damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or damage using a dial indicator.
2
Check brake pads for uneven wear or contamination.
3
Examine suspension components (control arms, ball joints, tie rods) for wear or damage.
4
Look for wheel alignment issues by checking tire wear patterns.
5
Verify tire balance and inspect for any visible defects or bulges.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Wear safety gloves and goggles during the procedure.

2. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors

Tools Required: Dial indicator, socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner.
Sub-steps:
1. Remove the front wheels using a socket set.
2. Remove the brake caliper by unscrewing the caliper bolts.
3. Detach the brake pads from the caliper bracket and set them aside.
4. Use a dial indicator to check for rotor runout; replace if warped beyond specifications (typically 0.002 inches).
5. Clean the rotor surface with brake cleaner and install new rotors if needed.
6. Reassemble the brake pads and caliper, tightening the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's torque specifications (usually around 25-35 ft-lbs).

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

Tools Required: Socket set, brake grease.
Sub-steps:
1. Check the thickness of the brake pads; replace if less than 3mm.
2. Clean the caliper bracket and apply brake grease to the backing of the new pads.
3. Install new brake pads ensuring proper orientation and fit.
4. Reinstall the caliper, ensuring it fits snugly against the pads.

4. Check Suspension Components

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
2. Visually inspect control arms, ball joints, and tie rods for play or damage.
3. Replace any worn or damaged components, torquing bolts to manufacturer specifications.

5. Tire Check and Alignment

Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, alignment tools.
Sub-steps:
1. Inspect tires for uneven wear, and check tire pressure; adjust as necessary.
2. If wear is uneven, perform a wheel alignment to specifications.