Durango's Pulsing Brake Pedal Points to Warped Rotors

I had a similar issue with my 2017 Dodge Journey last year. With some experience working on cars, I noticed the same symptoms you describe, especially that pulsing through the brake pedal and the pushback sensation. The issue turned out to be undervoltage in the electrical system affecting the brake control module. Initially, I also thought it was worn brake rotors or faulty brake calipers, but the diagnostic revealed the real problem. The repair shop found that the voltage was dropping intermittently, which caused the ABS system to activate out of nowhere. The total repair cost was 240€, which included diagnostics and fixing the electrical issue. The shop had to recalibrate the brake control module and address some wiring problems. Before offering more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your Durango, Whether the check engine light or ABS warning light is on, If youve noticed any other electrical issues (dim lights, slow starter), When was your last brake service While the symptoms sound very similar, knowing these details would help determine if youre facing the same electrical problem or if its actually related to worn disc brakes or brake components. Safety note: Since brake issues can be serious, I would recommend getting it checked soon rather than waiting, especially if you frequently drive at highway speeds.

Thanks for checking, my Durango has 69792 KM and just had its service 2 months ago. The ABS and check engine lights are not illuminated. The electrical system seems fine, no issues with lights or starting. The brake fluid was topped up during the service. Based on the pulsing sensation getting worse at higher speeds, it really sounds like warped brake rotors. When brake rotors become warped, they create an uneven surface that causes the brake calipers to pulse as they try to grip. This matches with feeling the vibration through the brake pedal. The complete brake system should probably be inspected soon, since warped rotors can eventually damage other components like the brake calipers if left unchecked. A rotor resurfacing or replacement would likely resolve the issue.

Good to hear back and thanks for those additional details. Since our situations initially seemed similar, I should mention that after seeing your specs, this does sound more like a mechanical rather than electrical issue, unlike what I experienced with my Journey. The symptoms you describe, especially with the pulsing getting worse at higher speeds, are classic signs of warped brake rotors. The fact that its most noticeable during highway braking is particularly telling, thats when disc brakes are under the most stress and warped rotors become most apparent. Since your brake service was recent, its worth checking if the brake rotors were inspected for minimum thickness and runout. Sometimes rotors can warp shortly after service if they werent machined properly or if there were issues with uneven torque during wheel installation. Given the mileage, a complete brake system inspection would be smart. When I had similar symptoms on a previous car, the squeaky brakes and vibration were resolved with rotor resurfacing. However, if the rotors are too thin for machining, youll need new ones. The repair typically runs 300-400€ for both front rotors, including labor. The good news is that this type of repair is straightforward and should completely resolve the pulsing sensation youre experiencing with the hydraulic brakes.

Thanks for your detailed responses. I think youre right about the rotors, the symptoms match perfectly with what youve described. The pulsing through the brake pedal during highway braking really points to warped rotors affecting the hydraulic brakes. I just called my regular shop and they can check it next Tuesday. They said theyll do a complete brake system inspection to verify the condition of the brake pads and rotors. The service advisor mentioned they might be able to resurface the rotors if they still have enough material left, which would save some money versus full replacement. Based on what everyone has shared, I feel comfortable driving it until Tuesday since the brake fluid level is good and theres no grinding or squeaky brakes. Ill just leave extra following distance and avoid heavy braking as much as possible. Thanks again for helping diagnose this. Its good to know what to expect when I take it in. Ill update once I get the official diagnosis and repair completed.