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Lights appearing on your instrument cluster may be a nuisance, but they should never be ignored. From tire pressure issues and low oil levels to overheating and engine malfunction, these icons indicate that something on your vehicle needs attention. We discuss the most common symbols to help you decipher what your CDJR dashboard warning lights are trying to tell you. more Oil Pressure Problem Like many of your dashboard warning lights, the oil-can icon appears each time you start your engine so you know it's working. However, if it remains illuminated or comes on while you're driving, a problem with the oil pressure has been detected. Stop the car as soon as it's safe to do so, wait for the engine to cool, and check the oil level. If the light remains on after topping up the oil, head to your local CDJR dealer for an oil change. Tire Pressure Issue Your vehicle has a tire pressure measuring system that monitors the pressure in each of the four tires. When the pressure is low or decreases in one or more of your tires, this system causes an exclamation mark in a bowl to appear on your information display. Check your tires as soon as possible, inflating any under the required pressure as indicated in your owner's manual. The light should disappear once all tires are at the correct pressure. Battery Warning A rectangular box with plus (+) and minus (-) symbols inside warns of a problem with the 12-volt battery and your vehicle's electrical system. Immediately turn off all electrical equipment and head to a CDJR service center so the professionals can diagnose and fix the issue. Malfunction Indicator Warning An icon in the shape of an old-fashioned engine indicates a problem with the engine or automatic transmission control system. This could mean anything from a loose gas cap or poor-quality fuel to major catalytic converter damage. Whatever the reason for the light coming on, get the vehicle to an authorized CDJR dealer ASAP. High Engine Temperature If you're driving and a thermometer gauge rising out of two wavy lines appears, your vehicle is overheating and struggling to cool itself. Safely pull off the road, switch off the engine, and wait for things to cool down. Airbag Issue A person reclining, wearing a safety belt, and holding a giant ball represents the airbag warning system and will illuminate when a fault is detected. This lamp will remain on until the system has been inspected by an authorized dealer. Your CDJR vehicle has a way of telling you something is wrong, which is why dashboard lights should never be ignored. If you're baffled by a symbol on your dash, contact us or visit Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI, and let our experienced technicians identify the problem and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Differentials are the gears that help your wheels turn at different speeds while still giving you complete control over your vehicle when navigating turns. Below are the top reasons to show you just how important regular differential service from your CDJR dealership is to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and safe ride. more 1. Proper Lubrication The differential gears must be well-lubricated to stop them from grinding. As you drive, the thick oil used for lubrication gets dirty and breaks down. If there's not enough oil for lubrication or the oil is old and contaminated, it will cause friction, overheating, and lead to wear. Eventually, the worn gears can seize up. This will lock the wheels and could cause a collision. 2. Comfortable Rides Well-maintained and lubricated differentials mean fewer vibrations when you drive, especially when you step on the gas. You won't feel every bump or shake because your differential does its job. Regular differential maintenance will ensure a more comfortable drive. 3. Improves Handling Your car's handling isn't just about the steering but also the differential. When the differential is in poor condition, it will make it much harder to handle your vehicle properly, especially when going through turns. We guarantee that regular differential checks will make all the difference. When your differential is working correctly, you will have complete control over your vehicle, and you will take tight turns with confidence. 4. Better Traction Properly maintained differentials make a big difference in how well your car behaves in unfavorable conditions when driving on roads covered in ice and snow. It has a lot to do with traction and how well your tires grip the road surface. When the differentials are in good condition, it will give you the traction you need to have more control and make it safer behind the wheel when driving on wet roads during bad weather. 5. Ensures Your Safe One of the biggest reasons why regular differential checks are so important is that they keep you safe. By visiting us regularly for differential maintenance, you will ensure the differential gears are lubricated to stop them from seizing and locking the wheels, which will cause an extremely dangerous situation. Maintaining your differential improves tire traction. The more grip your tires have, the less likely your car will skid and cause you to lose control, especially when the road conditions are poor. Make every drive you take enjoyable with regular differential checkups. Don't risk compromising your safety while out on the road. Book a service at Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell, MI now. Our certified and experienced technicians know their stuff and will ensure you get top-quality service.

Is your vehicle acting up? Perhaps it's burning more gas than usual, idling roughly, making odd sounds, or you've just noticed the check engine light on your dashboard illuminate. Getting engine diagnostics from your CDJR dealer will quickly identify problems. more Detects Vehicle Problems Quickly Our technicians use advanced diagnostic tools that connect to your onboard computer to assess your vehicle's condition and identify problems. This scanning process accelerates the entire repair process and allows our technicians to identify problems quickly. Accurately Identifies Malfunctions Your vehicle has many systems that work together. This sometimes makes it hard to identify and find problems. A scan will quickly and accurately reveal what's wrong and technicians won't have to spend hours looking for the cause of your vehicle's issues. With the help of diagnostic scans, our technicians can accurately determine what's causing those unsettling noises or strange smells or why smoke is billowing out of your tailpipe. Increases Your Vehicle's Performance Keep your car running at its best by regularly visiting us for diagnostic scans. It's a very useful preventative measure that gives you quick information on the condition of your vehicle and makes it easier to maintain. It will help to make your car more reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient and ensure you enjoy every minute behind the wheel. Provides Peace of Mind and Driving Confidence When you count on us for diagnostic scans, you can confidently drive your car wherever you want to go, knowing that it is in good working condition. With the help of our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and the knowledge of our certified technicians, every component and system in your vehicle will work properly. You have peace of mind that your vehicle won't let you down. Lowers the Risk of Misdiagnosis When you come to us for diagnostics after experiencing car issues, you reduce the risk of misdiagnosis, which will waste your time and inflate your repair expenses. Our certified and experienced technicians will swiftly locate the cause of your vehicle issues using cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and perform reliable repairs. Saves You Valuable Time and Money Believe us when we say diagnostics will save both your precious time and hard-earned cash. With fast and accurate scans, our technicians detect vehicle issues before they become big problems that can cause severe damage to your vehicle. This enables the technician to make the necessary repairs to prevent more damage to your vehicle's components and saves you from breakdowns and expensive repairs. Diagnostic scans provide a cost-effective solution to vehicle maintenance. Scans identify issues before they escalate, lower the risk of misdiagnosis, and prevent costly repairs. Call Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell, MI, now for a diagnostic scan.

If you are looking for a compact SUV with the durability you have come to know and love from Jeep, you need to check out the Compass. The 2024 Jeep Compass is available in five trim levels, starting with the affordable Sport trim. The roomy interior of this compact SUV can seat up to five passengers and features plenty of cargo space for your gear behind the rear seat. more Introducing the 2024 Jeep Compass This SUV features 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. However, if you find yourself needing more, you can fold the rear seat down. The rear bench seat folds with a 60/40 split, giving you multiple seating configurations to maximize your passenger-to-cargo ratio. When you lay the rear seat flat, you gain access to up to 59.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Muscles for Adventure The Compass has plenty of horsepower, letting you relax and enjoy your adventures, urban and otherwise. This four-wheel-drive SUV has a 2.0L I-4 engine, which delivers 200 horsepower and is matched with a silky 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine/transmission duo provides an impressive max towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds, so you can bring all of your gear out for your next camping trip. Infotainment The Compass features a stunning 10.1-inch multicolor touchscreen with the easy-to-use Uconnect 5 system. The touchscreen is responsive, needing only light touches to navigate its intuitive menus. Additionally, the large, high-definition graphics of the system ensure that you can easily read the menus at a glance. There are six speakers spread throughout the cabin of the SUV, ensuring that you can hear your music from every seat of the vehicle. You can link up your compatible smartphone device using either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Use these features to navigate with your preferred map system, make and receive hands-free calls, manage your messages, and stream your favorite audio with ease. Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking This SUV boasts multiple driver assistance and safety features that work hard to keep you and your family safe. One of these systems is Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking. This system utilizes radar sensors that keep an eye on the road. If the system detects that you are approaching vehicles ahead too quickly, it will send you an alert. It can also apply your brakes if it is deemed necessary. If you are looking for a spacious compact SUV with four-wheel drive and a large infotainment touchscreen, you need to keep the '24 Jeep Compass on your list. Come visit us at Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell, MI, to value your trade and schedule a test drive in your next family vehicle today.

Image via jeep.com The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a three-row SUV that should be the next member of your household. Combining off-road chops with a sleek design and plenty of creature comforts, this car is ideal for those looking for a versatile vehicle to help them go anywhere and do anything. more How Big Is It? The Grand Cherokee L has an immense road presence. Length-wise, it sits near the top end of three-row midsize SUVs and just below full-size SUVs like the Wagoneer. At 204.9 inches, this model is about 11 inches longer than its two-row counterpart. Despite its size, the GCL is as maneuverable as anything on the road. Its precise handling and optimized wheelbase allow you to gently and expertly navigate around obstacles and narrow pathways. What Are the Powertrain Options? Like its two-row cousin, the GCL is powered by the reliable 3.6-liter Pentastar engine that outputs 293 horsepower and has a towing capacity of 6200 pounds. Need more power? The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine is available. It comes armed with 357 horses and increased towing capacity.  Plus, these two engines come with fuel-saving technologies. For instance, the 3.6-liter engine cuts fuel flow and shuts the engine off when your car stops. The standard drivetrain is rear-wheel drive, meaning this vehicle has excellent steering. An optional all-wheel drive is available if you require that extra traction in various road conditions or off-road terrain. Want To Hear More About the Third Row? The third row is pretty much what makes the Grand Cherokee L stand out. Unlike other manufacturers of three-row SUVs, Jeep decided to fit just two seats in the third row. This decision makes the GCL one of the most comfortable three-row SUVs on the market. What's more, the seats can be folded to create more room for cargo or accommodate larger items when needed. Any Safety Features on this Model? The 2024 GCL, like all Jeep cars, comes loaded with tons of safety and driver assistance features. They include adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance warning, and technologies to assist you in reversing and parking safely. You can opt for the available rear-seat monitoring camera to help you keep an eye on the kids, pets, or cargo in the back. Want to get behind the wheel of this beautiful vehicle? Contact Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI, to arrange your test drive and experience the 2024 Grand Cherokee L yourself.

Image via ramtrucks.com With enough muscle for heavy lifting and seriously luxurious appointments, the 2024 RAM 2500 is one of the most sought-after heavy-duty trucks. more Tradesman The entry point into the RAM 2500 world, the Tradesman comes with serious capability for a base trim. It can be had with a 4x2 or a 4x4 drivetrain and in a variety of cab and box configurations. All options are powered by a 410-hp 6.4L HEMI V8 engine for an outstanding towing capacity of up to 20,000 lbs. Big Horn Next up is the Big Horn, a heavy-duty truck designed for the off-road. It comes exclusively in 4x4 drive and with exciting standard features, such as telescopic trailer tow mirrors and electronic trailer braking control. Distinctive styling elements enhance the model's visual appeal, so you can turn heads wherever you go. Optional features, such as performance suspensions and trailer surround view camera, can elevate your driving experience. Laramie The Laramie trim comes with a wealth of luxuries, including leather-trimmed seats with suede inserts for visual appeal and enhanced comfort. The front seats are heated and ventilated, while the rear passengers benefit from an ample lounge area. Front and rear parking assistance sensors add convenience in the city, while an optional cargo management system turns this trim into the perfect hauling vehicle. Rebel The Rebel trim comes standard with the same HEMI V8 engine found on the other trims, but it can be had with a 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine for 850 lb-ft of torque, outstanding towing capacity, and enhanced fuel economy. Performance shocks and a MOPAR Sport performance hood make it perfect for off-road adventures. Power Wagon Offered exclusively in 4x4 and in Crew Cab 6.4-foot bed configuration, the Power Wagon is the perfect option for conquering new heights. One of the model's highlights is the use of heavy-duty 17-inch wheels equipped with 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac all-terrain tires for exceptional traction on bumpy or slippery roads. Limited Longhorn Inspired by the authentic Southern style, the Limited Longhorn comes with exclusive comfort and convenience features, such as genuine leather seating surfaces and real wood interior trims. An array of optional features make it easy to customize the trim to your liking. Options include tech upgrades and a 360-degree trailer surround view camera. Limited The range-topper Limited builds on the Limited Longhorn and comes standard with a 12-inch driver information display. Driver assistance features, such as blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic and trailer detection add convenience. Available upgrades include power-deployable running boards for easier in and out of the truck. Ready to experience this ride? Visit us at Zeigler CDJR of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI and take your favorite trim for a spin.

One of the major benefits of having a CDJR dealership nearby is knowing that you always have a place to go for CDJR service. Getting service reliably from skilled technicians lets you know that your car is going to last, so you don't need to worry about your vehicle's parts unexpectedly wearing out. You know they're maintained well. more 1. Annual and Major CDJR Service Your car needs various forms of maintenance throughout the year, and one of the most important is the annual service that you'll get at your local dealership. During this service, the technicians check on a wide number of components in your car and do things such as change your oil and various filters. Every other year, your car needs a major service, which involves checking more systems, changing out more fluids, and replacing more wear and tear parts. This service keeps your car full of fresh components so it can continue to run like it's brand-new. 2. Air Conditioning and Heater Service Although the air conditioning and heater don't impact your car's driving performance, they definitely affect how comfortable you are in the car. If you're freezing cold in the winter or melting in the summer, then driving becomes unpleasant. If your AC or heater stop working, then you don't need to search for somebody who specializes in fixing ACs and heaters in general. Your local dealership can handle the necessary repairs. 3. Cooling System and Radiator Repair Coolant leaks, radiator malfunctions, and more can all happen even if your cooling system is maintained well. However, when there's a dealership nearby, you never have to worry that your car will have a cooling system problem that goes unchecked. If your car is starting to run hotter than usual, then visit the dealership to find out if there's something wrong with the cooling system. If a leak has fully drained your car of coolant, then call a tow truck and get brought in to the local dealership so we can take a look. 4. Motor Oil Replacement We mentioned that you'll need to have your oil replaced during your annual service, but a lot of vehicles need oil changes more than once a year. You can always stop by for an oil change, even if you don't need any other maintenance on your car during the visit. Although, it'd be wise to get your tires rotated during your visit for an oil change, too: regular tire rotations make sure the tire tread wears down at an even rate. Being near a dealership makes it easy to stick to your service schedule. Visit Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI for everything you need for your car.

Image via dodge.com The 2024 Dodge Durango has established itself as a leader in its class. However, with six trims to choose from, deciding which of these outstanding SUVs best suits your needs can be difficult. We look at the full Durango lineup and what each trim offers to help make this tough decision a little easier. more 1. SXT We kick off with the SXT, a five-seater SUV powered by a 293 horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine capable of hauling a 6,200-pound trailer, boat, or camper. Slipping inside, you're met with a stylish, airy interior featuring an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with a four-way lumbar support and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Rear passengers receive 60/40 split bench seating and have their own HVAC control, giving them some independence over the temperature at the back. 2. GT Building on the SXT, the GT receives 20-inch silver aluminum wheels, and a black grille window trim for a more dramatic look. Drivers with a large family will be happy with the addition of a third row, turning this into a seven-seater SUV. Loading and unloading becomes easier thanks to a power liftgate. 3. Citadel The Citadel continues to grow in design, convenience, and comfort. Both front seats become heated and ventilated and a sunroof lets in plenty of natural light. An upgraded infotainment system is introduced, with a 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, integrated voice-activated navigation, and nine speakers positioned throughout the cabin. 4. R/T Next up is the R/T which bases itself on the GT. However, it ditches the V6 for a more powerful 360 horsepower 5.7-liter V8, boosting this trim's towing capacity to 7,400 pounds. 5. SRT 392 The towing abilities of previous trims pales into insignificance next to the 8,700 pounds that the SRT 392 can tow. This additional power comes from a 6.4-liter V8 hiding under the hood which produces 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Dodge also introduces all-wheel drive as standard and equips the SUV with Brembo brakes for high-performance braking. Leather upholstery adorns the interior and rear passengers get a comfort boost with heated second-row bucket seats. 6. SRT Hellcat At the top of the list, we have the SRT Hellcat. A 710 horsepower 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine delivers racetrack-like performance with its 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. And, to keep this workhorse of an engine cool, Dodge has equipped the Hellcat with an intercooled supercharger compressor. Whether a powerful engine is most important or you need a sizeable three-row SUV to fit the entire family, there's a Durango to satisfy your needs. Contact us or visit Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI today, and check out the full Durango range for yourself.

Did you know that 76 percent of pedestrian fatalities from road accidents occur after dark? Overall, there are three times more fatalities from automobile collisions at night than during the daytime. Poor visibility due to darkness has a huge impact on driving safety. With this in mind, never hesitate to have new headlights installed at your local CDJR dealership if you experience the following issues. more Dimming Light The first indication of failing headlights is often a gradual or sudden dimming in the light ahead of the car. All types of headlight bulbs start to dim before they finally die, and you're likely to notice the dimming more on one side of your car as just one headlight fades. It's best to replace a dimming bulb as soon as you notice it. Any reduction in visibility lessens your ability to respond quickly to collision threats after dark. One Headlight Fails Headlight bulbs are usually installed in pairs and both bulbs in a pair tend to have a similar lifespan. For this reason, it's best to replace both bulbs when just one of them fades. This way you keep your headlight brightness optimized at all times while avoiding that worrisome feeling of waiting for the second bulb to die. Flickering Bulbs Halogen bulbs may start to flicker when on their last legs. This happens when a bulb's filament has burned out or partially broken. However, flickering or erratic light might also result from a wiring problem or a fault with the battery or alternator. With flickering light, you may need to ask a technician to figure out and fix the underlying issue. Unresponsive High Beams Occasionally, high-beam bulbs alone might stop working. This leaves you depending on weaker low-beam bulbs alone, which isn't suitable for safe nighttime driving. If your high beams fail, have them repaired at once. Blowing Fuse If your headlight fuse keeps blowing, either your headlights or the electrical system is malfunctioning. You'll probably need a professional to find out what's triggering the fuse and repair the fault. Frequent Bulb Changes If you're surprised by how often you need to change your headlight bulbs, you'll need to work out why the system is malfunctioning. You may be using incorrect bulbs for your vehicle or installing them incorrectly. Alternatively, the headlight socket or wiring might be faulty. Sometimes excessive road vibrations can damage headlight bulbs, in which case you'll need to figure out what's causing the vibrations. Moisture seeping into the headlight housing can also lead to corrosion or short circuits. Have your headlights repaired or replaced today at Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI. Our local full-service dealership provides excellent cars and customer service, whatever your automotive needs may be.

Image via ramtrucks.com The 2024 RAM 1500 is a beast of a towing machine with off-road capabilities, unlike anything in its class. It stands out as one of the best-reviewed vehicles of the year, with 10/10 ratings. Discover why the latest RAM 1500 is dominating the competition. more Rebel The Rebel has a 3.6-liter V6 gas engine that produces 305 horsepower at 6,400 RPM. It has the standard 8-speed automatic transmission. It can tow up to 7,210 lbs. with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 12,900 lbs. It includes 68.5 cubic feet of cargo space and 132 cubic feet for passengers. It's paired with LT275/70RR18E tires and 18-inch wheels. Tradesman The Tradesman has the same transmission and engine but a larger towing capacity, hauling an impressive 7,760 lbs. The interior includes 53.3 cubic feet for cargo and 117 cubic feet for passengers. You can add the 5.7-liter V8 engine, which produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque. It includes a Class IV hitch receiver to haul heavy loads. You can also add the trailer camera wiring package to keep an eye on your cargo. It also gives you more color options to help you customize your ride. Tradesman HFE The Tradesman HFE is slightly smaller. It has the same transmission and engine as the Rebel, producing the same horsepower. It can tow up to 6,740 lbs. with a GCWR of 11,900 lbs. It has 53.3 cubic feet of cargo space and 117 cubic feet for passengers. It doesn't have as many customization options as the higher trims. Big Horn The Big Horn has the same engine specs as the Tradesman HFE and offers more customization options than the Tradesman. These include adding a dual rear exhaust with bright or black tips, accent-color power mirrors, and an exterior driver mirror with automatic dimming for less light pollution. The bright front and rear bumper also come standard. Laramie The Laramie has the same engine and horsepower ratings. It has 68.5 cubic feet of storage space and 132 cubic feet for you and your guests. It can tow up to 6,520 lbs. with a GCWR of 11,900 lbs. It has a larger 33-gallon fuel tank to keep you on the road as much as possible. Limited Longhorn It has the same engine and interior dimensions as the Laramie and can tow up to 6,330 lbs. It has ​four-corner suspension for a smoother ride. Limited The Limited upgrades the 5.7-liter V8 gas engine, producing 395 horsepower at 5,600 RPM. You can tow up to 8,190 lbs. with a GCWR of 13,900 lbs. The latest RAM 1500 can handle any job and chart any terrain. These durable builds have the strength to power your supplies and equipment to your destination. Visit Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI, to customize your RAM 1500 today.

Image via ramtrucks.com Rugged, stylish, and ready for whatever heavy workloads or adventures you have in mind, the 2024 RAM 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup that offers a wide array of impressive features. more 1. A Turbocharged Diesel Engine Although all three of this edition's engine options are ready for tough jobs, it's the high-output 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine that steals the show with its strong torque and towing capabilities. Not only does this turbocharged I6 engine deliver 420 horsepower alongside 1,075 pound-feet of torque, but it also offers a 37,090-pound maximum towing capacity. 2. An Adjustable Rear Suspension Few pickups offer an adjustable suspension system like this one does with its Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension, available for four-wheel drive models. When hitching to trailers, you can push a button to lower the vehicle an extra inch, which also comes in handy when loading cargo into the bed. When you're finished towing, you can either press the button again to raise the vehicle or turn the engine off and the truck will automatically adjust back to its normal height. 3. Infotainment and Navigation While many trucks come with basic infotainment systems, the RAM 3500 offers available Uconnect 5 NAV, an advanced system that also provides turn-by-turn navigation instructions. With this system, you can use either your voice or a full-color touchscreen to control music, the cabin temperature, phone calls, driver-assist feature settings, and navigation requests. Best of all, you can connect both Apple and Android devices to it wirelessly through a convenient Bluetooth connection. 4. An External Storage System When you're working in the bed or having tailgate parties, you'll love the available RAMBox Cargo Management System, which is both a storage feature and an access point for electrical power. With two storage bins, one on each side of the bed, you can secure cargo by locking items inside them, use power tools with the 115-volt driver's side power outlet, or keep drinks cool by filling the bins with ice and then draining them later with their built-in drains. 5. The Off-Road Pages App Four-wheel drive is optional for this edition, depending on which trim level you go with, and it's complemented by the available Off-Road Pages app. Found on the infotainment system's screen inside the cabin, this app provides information on the vehicle's performance while you're off-roading, showing you everything from the truck's pitch and roll and gear shifting status to how much traction each wheel is receiving, and all in real-time as you're driving. Come experience the raw power and many other unique features this heavy-duty pickup has to offer by contacting us today at Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Plainwell in Plainwell, MI.

Your RAM needs regular maintenance so it can ride smoothly. Problems with any components can be inconvenient and dangerous, especially when your brakes are involved. This is how often you need new brake pads from your RAM dealership and signs indicating they need to be replaced. more Like many other parts of your RAM, the brake pads will wear out over time. Changing them should be part of your regular vehicle maintenance. On average, you should replace your brake pads every 20,000 to 50,000 miles. A mechanic should inspect them at least once annually to see if they're worn and if you need new ones. Signs of Worn Brake Pads You can tell your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced by looking for certain signs. These are some key symptoms to look out for while driving your RAM. Squeaking Noises Squeaking noises may come from your brakes when the pads are worn from wear and tear. If you notice this sound, it indicates that you need service. Changing the pads as soon as possible can prevent potential problems. Grinding Sound A grinding sound means there's an urgent issue and your brake pads must be replaced immediately. If you continue driving without getting new parts, you can damage your vehicle and be on the hook for costly repairs. Vibration Sensation If you detect a vibration sensation while braking, your RAM needs replacement brake pads. This sign indicates that your braking system is no longer working as intended. As the brakes malfunction, your vehicle will feel shaky while driving. Taking Longer to Stop One of the biggest indicators that you need to upgrade your brake pads is that it takes your RAM longer to stop. This problem puts you, your passengers, others on the road, and pedestrians at risk of an accident. Don't take any chances if your vehicle doesn't smoothly stop. A mechanic can replace your brake pads so you can ride safely. Thinner Brake Pads You can also see when your brake pads need to be replaced. They shouldn't be any less than one-quarter of an inch or around 7 millimeters thick. If they're worn out, they'll be thinner than that. You may also notice a buildup of brake dust, indicating that you need replacement brake pads. Indicator Lights Appearing You may need replacement brake pads if your indicator lights appear. Keep an eye on your dashboard if you haven't noticed other signs of worn brake pads. If you have your sights set on a new RAM, don't hesitate. Contact us at Zeigler Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Plainfield in Plainfield, MI so we can answer all your questions.