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2008 Chrysler T&C & Dodge Caravan brake life expectancy!

424 messages,  Last post on Mar 16, 2013 at 5:46 PM

You are in the Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan Forum.

What is this discussion about? Chrysler Town and Country, Brakes, Van

Messages Page 5 of 43

#39 of 424 another brake job here by minnie71

Oct 03, 2009 (11:50 pm)

We also had brakes replaced on our 2008 Town and Country with only 19000 miles and were also given the runaround about it being normal wear and tear. I called Chrysler who basically told me tough crap, they were not going to do anything about it. I also talked to the "Sales Manager" who threw me out of his office. . I heard the service man on the phone with another customer who also had to put new brakes on with 23,000 miles on her car, and he was telling her the same thing,it is normal wear and tear. How are they getting away with this? I have also filed a complaint with NHTSA ODI.

#40 of 424 Re: Chrysler Brake Pad/Rotor Issues [pschultheis] by gunksny

Oct 05, 2009 (6:14 am)

Replying to: pschultheis (Oct 01, 2009 8:34 pm)
Hi -
 
Please let us know how this turns out. We first heard a squealing noise about 3000 miles ago at 13,500 - it seemed to be coming from everywhere outside and we never would have suspected the brakes at 13k miles. The dealer couldn't find the source.
 
Just brought the car into the dealer at 16,500 and they tell us its the rear brakes totally gone - metal on metal. Of course NO one would expect you need new brakes at 13 or 16k miles! The sevice tech agreed thjis is a major flaw and they have been seeing this alot on the 2008 T&C's as early as 11k miles and yes its a big problem but they have no recourse. They did give me a 10% discount so it came to $300 for the rears.
 
The Dealer also said the only way recalls get started is if enough people call (for them to be afraid of a class action or safety lawsuit).
 
He gave me a number, 800-992-1997 to get started (and we might even get reimbursed, but doubtful).
 
This is not only infuriating, not to mention dangerous.
 
.Everyone who has had this problem should call and write a letter!

#41 of 424 Chrysler T&C brake problems by zezedog

Oct 05, 2009 (7:49 am)

I have had to replace both front and rear brake pads and rotors after only 20,000 miles! This costs a small fortune. If you have had a similar problem I urge you to file a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If enough complaints are filed perhaps Chrysler will have to do something to recall and replace this sub-standard product! If you search for NHTSA on the internet, you can find their Office and Defects Investigation. Then under "Safety Complaint" click on "file a complaint". This will lead you through the steps to file an official complaint. It only took me about 5 minutes to complete and hopefully we can get a response from Chrysler. They need to take responsibility for their products!

#42 of 424 New brakes needed on 2009 T&C after only 3K miles! by bennett4

Oct 05, 2009 (8:58 am)

That's right! 3,420 miles and my van needs new front/rear pads and rotors. So much for the "upgraded" brake components for 2009. I brought it to the dealer for pulsating in the pedal and they tell me the rotors are "blue" all around and the pads are worn down. They covered it under warranty and gave me a loaner. I don't brake with my left foot. It will be on their dime for the first 12K miles as I understand it. After that, I'll install aftermarket ceramic pads and aftermarket rotors like I did on my 06 T&C and be done with these crumby Chrysler/Mopar parts. The ceramics sqeak a lot but I don't care as they provide better stopping power, less wear and much less brake dust.

#43 of 424 Re: New brakes needed on 2009 T&C after only 3K miles! [bennett4] by gunksny

Oct 05, 2009 (10:45 am)

Replying to: bennett4 (Oct 05, 2009 8:58 am)
Hi bennett4
 
Would the dealer put the ceramic brakes on your van for you or did you have to use an indie shop? How much more did it cost?
 
thanks!

#44 of 424 Re: Chrysler T&C brake problems [zezedog] by gunksny

Oct 05, 2009 (10:47 am)

Replying to: zezedog (Oct 05, 2009 7:49 am)
Here is the link to file a complaint with the NHTSA:
 
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/

#45 of 424 Re: New brakes needed on 2009 T&C after only 3K miles! [gunksny] by bennett4

Oct 06, 2009 (1:41 pm)

Replying to: gunksny (Oct 05, 2009 10:45 am)
A local shop installed them. They were about $30 more than a "stock" pad/rotor package.If I recall, the manufacturer of the components was "Centric." The dealer only installs Chrysler/Mopar parts.

#46 of 424 Re: 2008 Chrysler T&C & Dodge Caravan brake life expectancy! [usavet] by fpeck

Oct 09, 2009 (8:22 pm)

Replying to: usavet (Nov 25, 2008 4:04 pm)
We also purchased 2008 T&C in May of last year, had to have ALL new brakes at 15000 miles, we had to pay 400.00, then another set of brakes this summer before we could go on vacation at only 28000 miles, now, guess what at 34500 miles, we have to have another set. I contacted Chrysler directly and put in a complaint. they gave me a reference number and told me to take it to the dealer. This time the dealership said they were going to give us a "goodwill" repair and a free rental car until they could get our brakes parts in a couple of days. the lady at the main Chrylser complaint center said she had not heard of brakes being a complaint. Look PEOPLE, THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS ON HERE!!! not counting the other websites with complaints. we paid over 45000 for this van, and now the blue book price is 22950. we couldnt even trade it in to get rid of it. what can we do. somebody has to be able to help us, we cannot let this company get away with extortion and that is what it is..plain and simple!!!

#47 of 424 Re: Chrysler Brake Pad/Rotor Issues [pschultheis] by poorvan

Oct 12, 2009 (5:41 am)

Replying to: pschultheis (Oct 01, 2009 8:34 pm)
Just found this group. My 2008 needed new brakes and rotors at 18k, I installed them at 24k for inspection, and have had another set of brakes and rotors installed since at 31k (dealer did them for free), and am back at the dealer with 35k on the van. After calling around to several dealers the service departments all know it's a problem, but all say that Chrysler isn't coming up with a updated option. I love the inside of the van, and some options, but hate this issue, and rough idling and engine noise. Has anyone had success fighting Chrysler? I was told I could receive half of my cost for the first set, and am preparing to send over that info to recoup my loss. Anyone buying another brand name replacement? I put 35-45k on a year, and am ready to leave the Chrysler family where I've owned vans since 1999 (my best one btw - 235k). John

#48 of 424 2008 Town and Country - A lemon!!! by mhume

Oct 12, 2009 (11:51 am)

I have had to replace both a transmission pump and a fuel pump. I literally had to get out of my car and push my baby to the dealership in a stroller because it wouldn't drive...it was only 4 months old at that point! Then are 6 months, it had to be towed from my driveway. The dealership wouldn't come and get it because they said the battery was dead...but of course, that wasn't the case...it was the fuel pump."> Now, the brakes are completely shot. What a total rip off. No wonder why they are in financial trouble...they are selling crap.

Messages Page 5 of 43

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