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

usavet · November 2008

Please share your stories about brake issues you have had with your van here, I have had issues with my 2008 town & country's brakes!!!

change2007 · December 2008

We have had to replace the front rotors, brakes and pads for our 1 yr old 2008 T & C Limited in Oct.Then recently we heard a crunching noise in the left rear and upon taking it to the dealer they found out that the caliber in the left rear was
malfunctioning and so the dealer is replacing it all at not cost to us! Still, having to replace rotors,brakes and pads (front and rear) for a year old van seems excessive. We've owned several T & C vans (most recent 2001 & 2002 AWD) and didn't have the bake problems at all when they were only a year old. I now know that rotors in new cars can't be 'turned' and so the van owner is going to have to put out more money for repairs earlier.No mass transit is available as we live in a rural area.The cost of operating a van in a area that has small mountains and curvy roads has increased dramatically!

dendill · December 2008

....we purchased the van in December 07. Since our first oil change, we have questioned the brakes. They have ALWAYS squeeked. The service manager tells us it's because they are no longer permitted by the government to use asbestos in brakes any longer?? Is this true?? Well I think we've complained at every oil change and at the last one, when we had the tires rotated, to my surprise at 21,000 miles the service manager tells me I need all new front brakes. I laughed! Surely he was trying to get-over on me since I am a woman. Even the men in the waiting room laughed after he left the room and asked me how many miles were on the van. WELL! 2 weeks later, we were down to the warning level on the brakes. I went to Sears for replacment----after checking my car, the manager asked me, are you ready for this????? DID I HAVE A PAPER ROUTE?? Since he couldn't believe the breaks were like this on a new car with only 21K miles!

Come on Chrysler! What the heck is going on here?

Anyone else???

ann58 · December 2008

I was wondering if we were the only one with a problem like this, but I see we aren't. Our 2008 Town and Country is HORRIBLE! We too, have only 22,000 miles on it and when we had our oil changed, we too had our brakes checked because of noise. At first we were told it was probably just dust on the pads because it only had 22,000 miles on it. But just like you, they then told us we needed new brake pads and warranty did not cover them, even at this low milage. We had a Grand Caravan before this and had over 60,000 miles before first brake pads. Then they came back at us, that it is because of the ESP braking system on it and it isn't unusual for them to only get 8,000 miles before needing new pads! COME ON. Something is wrong here. Plus, we have a roaring in the right rear side, poping in the steering column and they claim they can't find anything wrong, several times it has been reported. A/C leaked in the floor and took 5 times to get that straight. This van came straight off the lot at a Chrysler dealer. We can't even get the pads at a parts place, has to come from the dealer at the tune of $92.00 plus cost of them to put them on and lord only know how much that will be. And they don't even keep them in stock! We had to order them 12/26/08 and now they won't be in until 12/30/08 and we can't even drive it till then for the fear of having to buy rotters. So we will NEVER, EVER but a Chrysler product again and we still have to pay for this lemon!!!! :lemon:

jkl1972 · January 2009

We've had our 2008 Grand Caravan since 12/07. It had only 15,000 miles when we found out it needed new brakes and rotors!!! Not covered by warranty after 12,000 miles. Are they kidding?? They wanted $350 to replace. With a 3 year lease, I'd be paying this every 3 years until I turned it in... I refused! My husband also went to parts shops to find the brakes.... no doing. They don't carry them becuz they shouldn't go bad this early! Tell me about it. After searching 8 car part shops he finally found them, now they squeak worse than ever, but don't grind. This sucks. I've been buying these Chysler/Dodge vans for over 12 years and usually don't have problems (this has to be a recall in the future).The lease loyalty usually brings me back, but who knows after this lease???

srs_49 · January 2009

We have over 40,000 miles on our 2007 DGC (bought used at the 20,000 mile mark), and the brakes have still not been touched (though I'm going to be inspecting them sometime in the next couple of weeks or so).

Our '94 Dodge Caravan only needed front brake pads every 60,000 miles or so.

But, my 2005 Dodge Dakota PU truck needed the front rotors replaced at the 10,000 mile mark because they were "warped". I replaced the pads at the same time, but the original pads were still good and had hardly been worn at all.

So go figure. Brake pad/rotor life in recent Chrysler products seems to run all over the chart. I have no idea why :confuse:

bbutash · January 2009

We just drove our 2008 Town & Country off the lot today. It had only 87 miles on it and we hear and feel a thumping below the driver's seat and a vibration in the pedal when braking at 40 MPH or greater.

The steering wheel also tends to have a little vibration feedback as well.

Anybody have any ideas what it might be or experience the same?

gimmeabrake · March 2009

Getting my van back from the dealer tomorrow. The van has 15500 miles and needed new front brake pads and rotors. I cannot believe it. The dealer told me it is normal wear and tear and could be the way the vehicle is driven. My wife drives it most of the time. Her last vehicle was traded in with 45,000 miles on it with no brake problems, so I have a real hard time faulting her driving habits. I contacted Chrysler Quality hoping they would take care of me. They did nothing for me. They also told me it was just a wear item and couldn't be warranteed. I told them they were selling vans with insufficent brakes, but they didn't want to hear that. The worst part of it was that you can't buy parts at your local auto part stores to fix it yourself. The van is to new for the parts to be available aftermarket. This puts you right back at the dealer. What a monopoly!

srs_49 · March 2009

I replaced the front pads on our 2007 DGC, maybe 2 weeks ago for the first time. This was at the 43,000 mile mark. That's acceptable mileage from front pads, IMO.

On the other hand, I had to replace the front rotors on my 2005 Dakota at the 12,000 mile mark. Pads were fine, but replaced them anyway. That was not acceptable!

See my earlier post, #6.

yahooligan · March 2009

Well, I don't know whether I should be glad or disappointed we're not the only ones experiencing brake issues with our '08 DGC. The dealer replaced all the pads and rotors less than a year ago due to excessive run-out (Warping), which they did under warranty right around 12k miles. They, too, tried to blame the problems on my wife's braking habits. She doesn't brake hard or late, doesn't drive through puddles, doesn't drive in hilly terrain where the brakes can overheat. Just your standard suburban driving. So now, 5k miles later (17k on the van), it's back at the dealership again to have them check the run-out. Yes, Chrysler only covers the *original* brakes for 12/12k, but if they replace the parts then the parts are covered by their own 12/12k warranty. Don't let the dealer try to pull a fast one on you if your brakes have already been replaced within the past year and within 12k miles! Also, don't let them screw you over by turning the rotors. That is not a fix and will contribute to more warping now that the material thickness isn't consistent, which means heating and cooling at different rates and this will cause warping. The only reason they turn the rotors is to prevent fixing them under warranty, get you out the door, and then get you to pay through the nose for repairs that should have been covered under warranty. Does this make sense? No. They get paid for warranty work, so you'd think they'd be happy to do the work. Problem is, they get paid warranty book time for repairs which is less than customer-pay and brake work is gravy.

Anyway, this really is a problem that needs to be addressed. Some of you may be aware of the issues Nissan had with the Titan and Armada when they first came out, what a fiasco THAT was. Tons of vehicles bought back under the lemon law because they couldn't correct the brake issue for good until after the '05 models came out.

Dodge could be in the same situation here if they don't correct the issue soon. The brakes are obviously insufficient for the vehicle and overheat way too easily under normal driving.

srs_49 · March 2009

There are a number of things that could cause rotor warping or runout (which is more likely a transfer of material from the pads to the rotor, causing a microscopic high spot of the rotor).

1. Rotors running hot (say, after a long run down the side of a mountain), then having to stop with your foot on the brake at a stop light at the bottom. This keeps the pads in contact with the hot rotor and encourages pad material transfer to the rotor.
2. Light weight rotors and other brake componets, which are more prone to overheating.
3. Brake pad material. Some types run hotter than others, and other types are more prone to the pad material transfer phenomenon.
4. I have also read where improperly torqued wheel nuts/bolts could exacerbate the problem by allowing the brakes to run hotter than desired.
5. On the other hand, I do not believe that driving through a puddle of water should cause the problem. If it does, the brakes are woefully inadequate to start with and, if the dealer or manufacturer tells you that, maybe it's time to get the NHTSA involved and push for a recall.

I would look into a good aftermarket rotor instead of going with what the dealer offers, warranty or not.

Also, don't let them screw you over by turning the rotors. That is not a fix and will contribute to more warping now that the material thickness isn't consistent, which means heating and cooling at different rates and this will cause warping.

I agree. I would not turn today's rotors. As you said, they are on the light side to start with, and by removing some material you just make them lighter and more prone to overheating.

yahooligan · March 2009

Here's an update some of you might find useful, however I cannot seem to locate any information on it.

So basically 7000 miles ago all the pads and rotors were replaced in my wife's '08 DGC and a couple months ago they started warping again. The local Dodge dealer initially said they wouldn't be covered (17k on the van now), but I basically told them warped rotors after 7k miles under normal driving conditions was unacceptable. A couple of days later we get a call back, they spoke to Chrysler corporate who agreed to do a good will repair if we paid $50 and they covered the rest.

Anyway, on to the juicy bit. The RO says "Install updated rotors and pads per TSB #05-006-08."

I can't find any record of this TSB and didn't see it until the wife got home. I'd like to see the details on this if anyone can find them.

For those of you experiencing repeated brake issues, I'd call up your local dealer of choice and ask them about this TSB.

kalena · April 2009

In June 2008, I purchased a 2008 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. I and my 2 young children often take driving vacations, and as a result, my van turned over 16,000 miles this month. Let me say first that I have been very happy with the van thus far, and am still pleased with it overall. But I think this brake issue is something that Chrysler needs to address immediately.

Two weeks ago, one of my tires was low, so I took the van in to the dealer (my tires are filled with nitrogen). My father is retired and works part-time at the dealership, so they know me there. I brought the van back home, and discovered over the past 2 weeks that the tire had a slow leak, so I took it in today to have it repaired. I was told that yes, there was a nail in the tire and they repaired it. However, they had some distressing news for me... I was informed that I needed new front brakes AND rotors, to the tune of $330. I was shocked. The brake pads were gone and the rotors were scored at only 16,000 miles???

I told them that I was surprised to hear this, because there was no noise, no squeaking, no grinding - no warning whatsoever. And at 16,000 miles?? I would never expect brakes to wear out so quickly. The technician responded that he didn't hear any brake noises either. I was wondering then, what made them check the brakes...? My leaky tire was in the rear, so it wasn't like they found it by accident while changing the tire. They knew they needed to check those front brakes. Sure enough, the technician informed me that they had been having this problem with the brakes on the 2008 minivans with 14-19K miles on them, and that improvements have been made to the new brake pads, so hopefully I would get more mileage out of the new brakes. My brakes were apparently in such bad shape, they didn't let me take the van home.

I was pretty angry about the fact that the brakes wore out so quickly, that there was no warning, and that Chrysler knows this is happening.

People are apparently being told that it's the way they are driving, or else it's normal wear and tear. But I have a personal connection at the dealership, so I was told the truth about it.

I am certainly no expert on vehicles, but it could be a dangerous situation if Chrysler underrated the brakes for its minivans. If I didn't have that leaky tire, and if the technicians didn't take it upon themselves to check the front brakes, then when - and how - would I have discovered that my brakes were worn out??? This is specifically a family vehicle, designed to carry more people!! And why am I having to pay $330 when Chrysler is well aware that this is an existing problem with the vans, and is making changes only to the vans that are brought in??

Is this a recall situation?? I think it at least needs to be addressed before someone with low mileage discovers in traffic with a vanload of children that their brakes are gone. It's most certainly a quality issue, and Chrysler is going to hear about it from me.

usavet · April 2009

JUST GOT BENT OVER FOR ANOTHER $200 ON BRAKE PADS AGAIN AFTER ONLY 12K SINCE BRAKE AND ROTOR JOB ON 2008 T & C!!! THIS VAN HAS 32K HIGHWAY MILES ON IT!! I WENT IN FOR AN A/C PROBLEM TO BE FIXED UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY CALL AND SAY THE PADS ARE ABOUT SHOT! THEY ALSO TELL ME NO ONE IN THE AFTERMARKET MAKES PADS SO I HAVE TO TAKE THE FACTORY ONES AGAIN!!!!!!!!! CHRYSLER HAS THE WORST QUALITY OF ANYTHING I HAVE EVER OWNED, I HAVE HAD BETTER CHEVETTES AND CAVALIERS!!!!! CAN ANYONE SAY LEMON LAW?!!

ann58 · April 2009

We have a Dodge Ram 4X4 and We have owned a Grand Caravan in 1986. The Grand Caravan beats this 2008 Town & Country all to pieces! Have never had problems from the Ram and it has almost 200,000 miles on it. But like you, I have regreated ever getting this Town & Country. And they tell me it is the Cadalliac of the Chryslers? Excuse me but I would hate to see the junk of that line. We also are having to foot the bills for break pads about every 21,000 miles. But I am lucky, we do have to buy them from the dealer but my husband can put those on. :lemon: :lemon: :lemon: :lemon:

abutcher · April 2009

Go to:
Rock Auto

They sell ceramic pads for these vans now, by many different makes.

usavet · April 2009

Looks like the dealer's service department played me hard, what a bunch of a holes at charlie zook in sioux city iowa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :lemon: :lemon:

dlbussell · April 2009

I have to replace my front brake pads and rotors after only 25K miles. The rotors were heavily grooved. I didn't even hear the warning tab squeal before the rotors were damaged beyond repair. I noticed all of this on a Friday afternoon when I had to travel 150 miles home. I called the dealer and bought the rotor and pads at dealer pricing since the OEM is the only source at this time. I had to do the work myself Saturday morning. I never thought that I would be reparing a new car within a year of buying it . . Shame Shame.

My tires have also been wearing down earlier than expected. My Dodge GC has the Yokohama tires. After 33K miles, they are ready for a change. Again, the dealer just has blank stares, and Chrysler customer serivce keeps on telling me how the dealer has "High Tech instrumentation" to check these things. I think I need an accountant to tell me that Chrysler went cheap on the OEM wheel parts . . .But then again, I already know that.

abutcher · April 2009

OEM is not the only source any more. Go to rockauto.com, they have pads and rotors available, including many makes of ceramic pads.

I called several national chain stores in the Detroit area, many have or can get in 1 day pads and rotors including Pep Boys, Murrays, NAPA, Advance Auto and Autozone.

cwilcher · May 2009

Purchased a 2008 Chrysler T&C in Sept. of 2007. In August of 2008 the van began vibrating & shimmying when the brakes were applied. The van had 17,562 miles on it. We were informed that the front brakes were about 1/8 inch think & that the rotors had a large lip wore on them. The rotor was too thin to resurface so we needed to replace front brake pads & rotors at a cost of $338.96. We complained to the service department, who provided us a 1-800 number for Chrysler Customer Service. We called & spoke to a representative in India who immediately asked if we wanted to file a Lemon Law Claim. We called our dealer back & asked for a local Chrysler rep. They were unable to provide us with the regional reps name & number because of a vacancy in the position, but within a few weeks we did speak to a local Chrysler rep. They finally agreed to pay for the parts if we paid for the labor. So we did in August of 2008! We took the van back in Sept. 08 after the brakes & rotors were installed with 18,891 miles on it due to a pulsation in the steering wheel when the brakes were applied. They resurfaced rear rotors but front brakes were still ok. The van went back in again in Feb of 2009 with 27,293 miles on it for that same pulsation, brakes were ok but no mention of the rotors! In April of 2009 we took the van back in with 30,456 miles on it for that same pulsation and guess what??? The vibration, pulsation, whatever you want to call it returns and the front rotors are out of round and too thin to resurface. Brake pads are ok but they recommend replacing the brake pads when the rotors are replaced. We called the owner of the dealership, who called his service technicians who told him that Chrysler brakes average no more than 12k miles! They don't advertise that now do they! Where do I go to get service work done now that the Chrysler franchise has been taken away from my dealer? Maybe that is the plan close franchises so consumer can't get work done! Now that will save Chrysler lots of $$! No wander Chrysler is out of business, their product is a piece of sh--!

jpf · May 2009

The brake problems appear to be more frequent with the redesigned vans starting in 2008. I own a 2006 Dodge Caravan. Front pads lasted 35,000 miles. I had them replaced at Sears last fall. Original rotors still on van. No problems with rear brakes. Overall, very satisfied with Dodge Caravan.

clubguy · May 2009

TSB# 05-006-08 issued Dec.8th. 2008

illinoisbrian · July 2009

I have a 2008 Caravan with about 31,000 miles on it. I had to have the front pads and rotors fixed at my expense, to which my Chrysler dealer informed me that there has not been a recall yet, but this has been a problem with the 2008. They did tell me that the issue has apparently been taken care of in the 2009 van but for those of us with the 2008's are pretty much S.O.L. for now. I also had a high pitch squeal about 2 months ago that would go away if I lightly depressed the brake, but would then begin again once I let off the brake. I drove for about 3 miles like this and when I got to my destination I couldn't believe the tire hadn't caught fire. There was so much heat coming off my rear driver side tire and the smell of burning rubber was horrible. I called my local dealer and they told me it was still under warranty so I needed to call the chrysler roadside assistance number. I did so and had a tow truck come out to tow me to the dealer. They were going to tow me by the front and I told him that the problem was the rear tire. He then said he was going to tow me from the rear, put the van in neutral and tie off the stearing wheel with the seat belt. Thankfully my brother-in-law was present and knows a hell of a lot more about cars than I ever will. My bro-in-law said they needed to send out a flatbed tow truck or use a dolly for under the wheels so they wouldn't screw up the transmission. The tow truck driver said they weren't getting paid for that and called back to his boss who said to go ahead and use the dolly even though they wouldn't get paid for it. After the van got to the dealer they determined that the rear brake hose was faulty and was not releasing the brake like it should. This was fixed under warranty at the end of May. Now it is July 17th and my family and I just got done with yet another exciting day of dealing with chrysler roadside "assistance" and the brakes on my caravan. We were driving down the highway about 90 miles from home when we started to hear a high pitch noise coming from the rear passenger side tire area. I pulled off at the next exit (about 1 & ½ miles) and was not very happy. This time the heat and burning rubber stench was in fact coming from the passenger rear tire. I called my home dealer to verify what the problem was before and then I called chrysler roadside assistance. I told them this has happened before and I needed a flatbed tow truck to tow the van and that I was with my wife and 5 year old daughter. They sent the flat bed tow truck and he towed the van in to the dealer about 25 to 30 miles away. I was told by roadside assistance that we couldn't all fit in the tow truck but they could give my the # to a cab company which I would have to pay for myself. I called the cab company and they said it would be about $98 for them to come get us and take us to the dealer. Instead I got ahold of my mother-in-law who drove almost 1½ hours to come and get us and take us to the dealer and then home. The dealer couldn't get to the van today but they have will "try " to look at it tomorrow even though they have shortened hours for Saturday and only ½ the technicians working. So needless to say I will probably not hear anything until Monday. While at the dealer there was only 1 other customer there and she was arguing with them because they had told her that her car would be done and now a different person was telling her a totally different story...last I heard she was going to speak to their manager. This doesn't make me feel that my van is in a very good place right now. I have been a loyal chrysler/dodge owner for a good number of years and even go very far out of my way to purchase and have service done at a small town dealer who has been very accomadating. However, I am seriously thinking I need to consider a different manufacturer for the future. Both times the rear brakes have had problems I was in the van with my wife and daughter on the highway. We are very fortunate that nothing serious happened to us and that we caught the problem early enough. I seriously had pictures of us traveling down the highway and a rear tire gets so hot that it ignites (if you could have felt the heat and smelled the horrific odor you would have the same thought). Dodge/Chrysler please correct the problems with these brakes and any owners out there be very careful and have your brakes checked often (probably every 300 miles would be good -->feeble attempt at humor). Good Luck!

jerry109 · July 2009

My van has 17000 and just had front wheel bearing replaced and dealer also told me my pads needed replaced. It is sad that a $34000 van has this kind of problems. I owned two others and no problems. I have had all kinds of other problems also. Need to recall this problem.

chucksteak · July 2009

Bought used 2008 T@C with 9,000 miles. At 20,000 needed front pads and rotors at $400+. I don't tailgate, drive in heavy traffic, ride the brakes, haul heavy loads, etc. Dealer had nerve to charge for tire rotation ($40) even though they had to inspect front and rears anyway. How much time did it take to roll front tire to rear and rear tire to front? They did replace a sway bar at no charge (under warranty) but that's says alot about Chrysler front end and brakes. A $30,000+ vehicle in the shop after one year and 20,000 miles. Ridiculous. I've finally learned my lesson. Time to move on to a different brand.

xwesx · August 2009

I don't blame you; it is amazing how the quality has gone downhill on this model.

My '98 DGC w/ AWD has 213,000 miles on it now with about 48,000 miles on the front brake pads. I rotated the tires on Sunday and noted that the pads are at about 60%.

adc1 · August 2009

Hye, I'm from belgium in europe, sorry for my bad english!
I'm very disappointed about my chrysler voyager ( the name of town and country in europe ) limited year 2008.
I have a lot of problems : brake have been replaced 5 times from purchase ( 42000 kilometers ),I have a air conditioner leak that caused mushrooms behind the carpet, I have also sometimes a siren like noise when driving and sliding doors problems ( obstacle detection ). Normally the leak is resolved, i hope so but now my garage must change all the floorboard. Biggest problem is the brake. I have done 150 km from replacement for brake and now my wheel is trembling during braking on high speed. I have appointment next week with Chrysler's importation responsible.
Hoping now solutions... what a pity that there are no lemon law in belgium

ann58 · August 2009

I know exactly how you feel! Luckyly, I caught the A/C leak. It took them 5 different attempts to get it fixed but I was not going to take "NO" for an answer and my entire carpet was replaced by the dealership. Brakes? They are a pice of you know what! Doors still rattle and they "fixed" them until now my warranty has ran out. And the stow and go? Forget that! I will never own another van with stow and go. It causes the van to be so noisy for the passengers in the rear and Lord help if you go down a dusty road or even have to straddle a dead animal in the road, all of the smell comes into the van! I have always had vans but this is the worst of any type a person can buy. Wonder why they went bankrupt? Crappy workmanship, extremely high wages and we the little guy has to continue to pay their high salaries while they sit back and laugh at us because they know we do not have a choice. Either continue to pay for junk that we have made a conmittment on or ruin our credit and not have a chance to go to a different brand and have a good vehicle. So they have a person no matter which way they turn. I WILL NEVER OWN ANOTHER CHRYSLER PRODUCT!!!!!! :lemon:

antoinettel · August 2009

We have a 2008 Town @ Country van with 18,000 and are in our 60's and do not travel a lot. My husband heard a scraping like from the brakes, so he took it in and low and behold there were no brakes left, it was metal on metal and cost us $400.00 for a leased car. I think that everyone who has had bake problems and had to put money out, should start a Class Action suit against Chrysler. We have driven nothing but Chrysler for 35 years, gues what NO MORE. Chrysler can go uner. :mad:

pschultheis · September 2009

We had to replace both the front and rear brake pads and rotors on our 2008 Chrysler Town & Country van at only 22,000 miles. I have never had to replace brake pads and rotors at such a low mileage on any vehicle I have owned. I have been driving 35 years, have owned many vehicles and am not driving any differently than I have driven in the past. We spent $40K for this vehicle and have just spent $910.00 to replace the pads/rotors. I am furious! I will be calling Chrysler Customer Service to see if any relief will be given and if not, will file a complaint with the NHTSA ODI (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Office of Defects Investigation.) If enough people report, maybe something will be done to assist the entire group. While you are there you can read some similar complaints that have already been filed. Below is info. I copied from their website:

How to report a safety Complaint
Select how you would like to report your complaint. See below for information regarding this form.
 ONLINE: Select the "Begin Form" button to the right.
 BY PHONE: Call the Hotline, Monday-Friday 8am to 8pm at
(888) 327-4236 , TTY: (800) 424-9153.
________________________________________
Who we are
We are The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), an office within the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). ODI conducts defect investigations and administers safety recalls to support the NHTSA's mission to improve safety on our Nation's roadways.
Why your complaint is important
Your complaint information will be entered into NHTSA-ODI's vehicle owner's complaint database and used with other complaints to determine if a safety-related defect trend exists.
 If a safety-related defect exists in a motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment, the manufacturer must provide a remendy at no cost to the owner. Your complaint is the first step in the process.
 We do not have to receive a specific number of complaints before we look into a problem. We gather all available information on a problem. Your complaint is important to us.
How Your complaint is Handled
 Government engineers analyze the problem. If warranted, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) will open an investigation to determine if a safety defect trend existis. Some of these investigations result in safety recalls.
 While you may or may not be contacted by a NHTSA-ODI investigator to clarify the information submitted, all reports are reviewed and analyzed for potential defects trends.
Filling out this form
Types of safety complaints
There are four types of safety complaints you can report.
 Vehicles: All motor vehicles -- cars, heavy trucks, RV's, motorcycles, emergency vehicles, buses, etc.
 Tires: All types of tires -- requires you to submit your vehicle information as well.
 Equipment: Non-original equipment -- replacement oil filters, wipers, RV accessories, lights, floor jacks, etc.
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The average time to complete the minimum requirements of this form is eight to ten minutes. It is advised you gather the necessary information for your complaint type before completing the complaint form.
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Below is a list of items you will need for each type of Complaint. Select the "+" button for the type to see what information you will need.
Vehicles
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Found on registration or insurance card.
* Component -- Part or system of concern
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o Tire Brand
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o Tire Size, (e.g., P275/75R16 89H)
o Component*
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Equipment
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Send your suggestions or comments to webmaster@nhtsa.dot.gov

wcrdll4indy · September 2009

We just had to purchase new brake pads for our 2008 T&C at 17,000 miles. Unheard of! Ridiculous! The Chrysler service rep told the "unofficial" story of how the new pads are the 3rd re-designed brake pads for this van, due to complaints/problems.

Why hasn't there been a recall? Why weren't my brakes free if the 2nd design was faulty and so many other T&C owners were coming in EARLY to have their brakes replaced on so low mileage???

We just purchased this Chrysler after owning 2 Toyota Siennas w/o any problems. Years prior, we had a horrible experience owning a Chrysler minivan and stayed away for years but were tempted back w/the 2008. Ha! Lesson learned.

Can't trust Chrysler products to last or trust the Chrysler company to stand behind their product. They're always dodging responsibility.......

We will definitely be using the advice from above poster to register our complaint with the government office (see #31). THIS NEEDS TO BE AN OFFICIAL RECALL!!! Heck, our brakes are squeaking already. Back brakes? Rotars? Sheesh - better keep the wallet open. It is a Chrysler, after all......

tedebear · September 2009

We spent $40K for this vehicle and have just spent $910.00 to replace the pads/rotors.

Although the brakes wore out sooner than they should have I am scratching my head wondering why the service cost was so high to have them replaced. Did you get an estimate from at least one other shop, like Midas or some independent service center? You do not have to have the work done at a high price dealership since this is not part of the warranty.

I'm not a mechanic but I've replaced pads and rotors on many of my cars. It's not that hard to do and it takes about two hours for me with hand tools and my car on jack stands in the garage. I don't have all the fancy lifts and air tools, etc. I would guess the parts cost for new rotors and pads would run around $200. It would be even less if the rotors just had to be resurfaced (turned) and not replaced. You can usually have that done to them the first time or two when the pads are replaced and there's still plenty of thickness on the rotors. Did all 4 wheels have to be replaced? Usually the fronts go out more quickly than the rears.

Anyway, I'm not suggesting that everyone should do their own brake pad replacing if they are not comfortable with taking on such a task. However, to anyone else who did a search for a similar problem they are having and found this thread I highly recommend getting a second or third opinion at an independent shop, especially since this repair is not covered under the warranty. $900 to have brakes replaced is WAY too high.

Here's a solution to the problem that another owner came up with: Chrysler Brake Problems

pschultheis · September 2009

Yes, we checked with our trusted, personal mechanic before the dealer did the initial work and they agreed that the price quoted was reasonable for the work on the front brakes. We then took the vehicle to our own mechanic for the remaining work. Yes, all four brakes were replaced. Neither my husband or I would have been able to do the work and you are fortunate to be able to do this yourself.

tedebear · September 2009

I guess I should run an ad for Chrysler minivan brake repair and earn a little extra cash on the weekends if they're getting that much for the service - wow. :surprise:

I'm sorry for the headaches you've had with this. As a former Chrysler employee I took pride in what I did for them and I tried to help any owners out who needed it. Ironically, I worked as an electrician at the St. Louis minivan plant until they moved everything to Canada last year.

janetmfx · September 2009

I had to replace the same thing on my 2008 Town and Country at 17,000 KMS! This was the least of my problems with this car...I haven't had it for a month because it is getting a new engine

pschultheis · October 2009

I am so sorry to hear that. What size engine do you have?

FYI - I wrote a letter to the dealer we bought the van from asking for reimbursement for our costs and the owner called us right away. We have a meeting with him Wednesday, October 7th and hope to have some good news to post here. Keep your fingers crossed.

janetmfx · October 2009

I have a 4.0 l engine...Good Luck with the reimbursement!

minnie71 · October 2009

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.

gunksny · October 2009

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!

zezedog · October 2009

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!

bennett4 · October 2009

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. :mad: 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.

gunksny · October 2009

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!

gunksny · October 2009

Here is the link to file a complaint with the NHTSA:

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/

bennett4 · October 2009

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.

fpeck · October 2009

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!!!

poorvan · October 2009

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

mhume · October 2009

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.

pschultheis · October 2009

Just an update. We wrote a letter to the dealer from whom we purchased the vehicle and subsequently, met with one of the owners. He agreed that he has heard of more problems with the brakes on later model years. He stated their dealership is not able to reimburse us any $ but recommended we call Chrysler and specifically ask for reimbursement. He also suggested we advise them that the 12 to 15K coverage in the warranty is not acceptable and ask that they take some ownership in the problem. I called Chrsyler again since I had called them once previously. I did specifically ask for reimbursement and this time, the CSR gave me information as to how to request reimbursement. I did not receive this information on the first phone call to them, but I had not specifically asked for reimbursement. Here is the info they gave me: send a letter to Chrysler Customer Assistance Center, P.O. Box 21-8004, Auburn Hills, MI, 48321. Include: Name, VIN, Chrysler Reference #, Current Address, Reimbursement Address, Day Phone, Evening Phone, Dealership of Vehicle Purchase and Service, Mileage at time of repair; Requested Action. I am sending it out today and we will see . . .

pschultheis · October 2009

Please see my update #49 to our situation.

pschultheis · October 2009

Please see my post #49 for an update to our situation and info that may be helpful for you too.

pschultheis · October 2009

Please see my post #49 for an update to our situation and info that may be helpful for you too.

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

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

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