Durango Brake Issues: Hard Pedal & Sensor Warning

A similar issue occurred on my 2018 Durango RT. With some experience working on brake systems, I initially thought it was a faulty brake booster, but it turned out the workshop had not properly bled the brake system during routine maintenance. The symptoms matched exactly what you describe, reduced brake performance and a stiff brake pedal requiring significantly more pressure. The warning messages were triggered by irregular pressure readings from the brake system sensors. The fix involved a complete brake system bleed using proper diagnostic equipment to ensure all air was removed from the hydraulic brakes. Total cost was 90€ for the service. Since then, the brake performance returned to normal and all warning messages cleared. To better assist with your specific case, could you provide: Current mileage, When the last brake service was performed, Whether the issue started suddenly or developed gradually, If any recent brake work was done before symptoms appeared These details would help determine if your vehicle is facing the same root cause or if other components of the brake system need attention. Keep in mind that compromised vehicle safety due to brake issues should be addressed promptly. If the brake pedal feels unsafe, consider having the vehicle towed to avoid risks.

Last service was completed at 52000 KM about 2 months ago. The brake pedal issue began gradually over the past few weeks. The brake pressure sensor warnings started appearing shortly after that service interval. Based on diagnostic tools used at home, I am getting error code P0504. While the replacement parts cost seems reasonable at 90€, I am concerned that bleeding the system alone may not resolve the underlying pressure sensor malfunction. The hydraulic brakes are technically working but require significantly more force than before. Looking for more specific guidance before booking a workshop appointment.

Thanks for those additional details. Given the error code P0504 and the symptoms developing after your recent service, my experience with the same model Durango suggests this could be more than just air in the ABS system. When my 2018 Durango showed similar symptoms, I initially thought bleeding would fix it, but after further investigation, the brake booster pressure sensor was actually failing intermittently. The sensor malfunction caused the same error code and similar brake performance issues. The replacement parts cost for the pressure sensor was around 180€, plus labor. The repair process involved: 1. Complete diagnostic scan 2. Pressure sensor replacement 3. Full brake system bleed 4. ABS system calibration Total repair time was about 3 hours. Since the fix, the brake performance returned to normal and all warning messages cleared. The stiffer brake pedal feel you describe matches exactly what I experienced before the repair. Given your vehicle is showing the same symptoms post-service, I would recommend having both the pressure sensor checked and the brake system bled. The complete repair resolved all issues in my case and restored proper brake booster function.

Thanks for sharing those experiences. Your detailed breakdown helps confirm my suspicions about the brake booster pressure sensor being the likely culprit. The timing aligning with my recent service and the specific error code P0504 seems too similar to be coincidence. I will schedule an appointment and request both the pressure sensor replacement and complete brake system bleeding. While 270€ total for parts and labor is more than I hoped to spend, proper brake performance and vehicle safety are worth the investment. The gradual loss of brake assist and increased pedal pressure matches the symptoms you described perfectly. It makes sense that the hydraulic brakes would still function but require much more force without proper brake booster support. I appreciate the explanation of the full repair process, helps me know exactly what to expect at the workshop. Will update once the repairs are complete to confirm if this resolved the brake pedal issues and warning messages. Having a clear repair plan makes me feel better about addressing these brake system problems.