Owner's Problem Description
The owner reports that the 2005 Dodge Stratus vibrates during braking, particularly noticeable in the front end and steering wheel, especially at higher speeds. Previous repairs in early 2009 included new rotors, brake pads, brake shoes, and struts, totaling $635.70. Despite these repairs and subsequent tire balancing and rotation, the issue persists. The owner suspects a brake problem and is uncertain if other factors, such as CV joints, could contribute to the vibrations.
Professional Technical Analysis
The 2005 Dodge Stratus is experiencing significant vibrations during braking, particularly evident in the steering wheel and front end. This symptom typically suggests issues with the braking system, specifically warped rotors or unevenly worn brake components. The vehicle has undergone previous brake service, with new rotors, brake pads, and shoes installed approximately two months ago. Given that the owner has already had the rotors resurfaced and brake shoes replaced, the persistence of the problem raises concerns about the quality of the previous work or the possibility of underlying issues. The vehicle's mileage and maintenance history suggest that the brake system may be compromised by inadequate installation or defective parts. The vibrations may also stem from other potential causes, such as worn suspension components or issues with wheel alignment. It's essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the brake system, including rotor runout measurements, brake pad condition, and caliper operation. Additionally, checking the suspension and steering components for wear will provide insight into any contributing factors. Safety is a key concern, as vibrations during braking can lead to compromised vehicle control, emphasizing the need for a detailed diagnosis and corrective action.
Possible Causes
Most common causes (ordered by frequency):
- Warped Brake Rotors: The most common cause of vibration during braking is warped rotors. This occurs due to excessive heat buildup from heavy braking, causing uneven wear and warping of the rotor surface. Measurement of rotor runout should be done to confirm this, ideally within 0.002" to 0.003" for optimal performance. If the runout exceeds this, replacement or resurfacing of the rotors is necessary. Given that the owner has had recent brake work, it is essential to verify the quality of the rotors installed and whether they meet OEM specifications (typically, rotors should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving conditions). - Vibration felt in steering wheel and front end, grooves observed on rotors, prior brake work with new components.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If the brake pads are unevenly worn, this can cause vibrations during braking. This could happen due to improper installation, caliper issues, or lack of lubrication on the caliper slides. Inspecting the brake pads for even wear and ensuring proper caliper operation is crucial. The thickness of the brake pads should be checked; they should not be less than 3mm to ensure effective braking performance. - Visual inspection of brake pads shows uneven wear patterns, potential caliper sticking.
- Suspension or Steering Issues: Worn suspension components, such as control arm bushings or tie rod ends, can contribute to vibrations during braking. If these components are worn, they may not provide adequate support, leading to instability. A thorough inspection of the suspension system should be performed, checking for play in the control arms and tie rods, and ensuring all components are secure and free of significant wear. - Inspection of suspension components shows signs of wear, potential play in control arms or tie rods.
Diagnostic Steps
Professional Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose the issue. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- STEP 1 - Visual Inspection: Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the brake system. Check for any visible damage to the rotors, pads, and calipers. Inspect the suspension components for wear and ensure that all connections are secure. Look for signs of uneven wear on the brake pads and measure rotor thickness with a micrometer.
- STEP 2 - Rotor Runout Measurement: Utilize a dial indicator to measure the runout of the rotors. The acceptable range is generally less than 0.002". If the runout exceeds this measurement, the rotors may be warped and require replacement or resurfacing.
- STEP 3 - Brake Pad Thickness Check: Measure the thickness of the brake pads to ensure they are above the minimum specification of 3mm. Uneven wear or thin pads can indicate caliper issues or installation problems. Replace pads if they are below the specification.
- STEP 4 - Road Test: Conduct a controlled road test to replicate the vibration symptoms. Monitor how the vehicle behaves under braking conditions, paying attention to any changes in steering feel or brake performance. Document any findings for further analysis.
