1999 Dodge Dakota Brake question

1999 DODGE DAKOTA
180,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
SLEEPYJOHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Recently have had dashboard idiot lights come on indicating "Brakes" and "ABS". I changed the worn front pads two months ago. I checked my brake fluid levels (normal). I pulled the rear brake drums off this evening, to replace the rear pads, but they only look worn to 50% of the new pads. It appears that they have lots of life left in them.

When stopped, I have applied the emrgency brake, then released it when I drive away. The dashboard lights go off for about 1/2 mile, then they come back on.

The truck runs fine, and stops fine, but the "ABS" light and the "BRAKE" lights bother me.

I live in the North Georgia Mountains, and when I drive downhill and stop, the lights usually remain out. When I travel uphill, or across flat ground, the lights come on.

Any suggestions?
Jul 2, 2009 at 7:15 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 9,123 POSTS
Funny how the term "Idiot lights " have changed their meaning.

You need to have a hand held diagnostic computer to to see what wheel is losing data.

Post back when you get to that point.
Jul 2, 2009 at 7:27 PM
Avatar
SLEEPYJOHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Sorry! I don't have a hand-held diagnostic computer to check the codes. All I can do is type on the computer in the middle of the night. I live in the North Georgia Mountains; 30 miles from where NC and TN come together with Georgia. It will be a good hour - two hour drive to get to a Dodge garage.

Another car expert on another forum mentioned that there is a sensor on the rear differential that frequently goes bad on Dodge Dakota pickup trucks, causing this problem. (ABS light and Brake light on the dashboard to come on)

I feel more relieved, now that I have personally examined all four brake shoes/pads and the fluid level in the resevoir. I'll wait until Monday or Tuesday and go find a Dodge dealer to get a new sensor installed.
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July.

Thanks.
Jul 3, 2009 at 7:20 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
SERVICE WRITER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 9,123 POSTS
If your going to not test and just try a part,
you can always have the sensor shipped to you. Would cost less than driving there.

Enjoy the holiday as well!
Jul 4, 2009 at 5:15 PM