How to Change Rear Drum Brakes on a 2008 Dodge Avenger

How to Change Rear Drum Brakes on a 2008 Dodge Avenger

Changing the rear drum brakes on a 2008 Dodge Avenger may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and some basic mechanical knowledge, you can do it yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps to change the rear drum brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake drum puller (if necessary) - Socket set - Brake cleaner - New brake shoes - Brake hardware kit (if needed) - Funnel and container for brake fluid - Safety goggles and gloves

Safety First

Before starting any mechanical work, make sure to prioritize your safety. Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself. Work in a well-ventilated area, and ensure your vehicle is on a flat surface.

Step 1 Prepare the Vehicle

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before lifting the vehicle, use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels. Do not completely remove them at this stage.

2. Jack Up the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle until it is high enough to comfortably work underneath. Secure the vehicle with jack stands to prevent any movement.

3. Remove the Rear Wheels Now, fully remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

1. Inspect the Brake Drum Check if the brake drum is loose or if it requires a brake drum puller to remove it. In most cases, it should pull off with some force if it’s not seized.

2. Remove the Brake Drum If the drum doesn’t come off easily, use a brake drum puller to avoid damaging the drum. Once removed, inspect it for any wear.

Step 3 Replace the Brake Shoes

1. Remove Old Brake Shoes Take a photo of the existing setup for reference. Then, remove the springs and clips retaining the brake shoes. Carefully take off the old brake shoes from the backing plate.

2. Install New Brake Shoes Compare the old shoes with the new ones to ensure they match. Install the new brake shoes by following the picture you took earlier, securing them with the springs and clips.

3. Replace the Hardware If you have a new hardware kit, now’s the time to install it. This will ensure that everything operates smoothly.

Step 4 Reassemble the Brakes

1. Reattach the Brake Drum After installing the new shoes, carefully slide the brake drum back onto the wheel hub, making sure it fits correctly.

2. Put the Wheels Back On Place the rear wheels back onto the hubs. Thread the lug nuts by hand and then secure them using the lug wrench, ensuring they are tightened evenly.

Step 5 Lower the Vehicle and Test

1. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.

2. Tighten Lug Nuts Once the vehicle is back on the ground, finish tightening the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

3. Test Drive Before going on a long drive, take the car for a short test drive to ensure everything is working properly.

Conclusion

Changing the rear drum brakes on a 2008 Dodge Avenger can save you money on labor costs and give you a sense of accomplishment. Always follow safety precautions and consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions or torque specifications. Happy driving!