Akebono vs. Teves Brake Calipers

Many Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ owners, particularly those with models from 1999 through to approximately 2002, will likely be familiar with the notorious Teves brake calipers. These factory-fitted components have gained a reputation for being problematic, often leading to issues such as sticking brakes, unsettling shuddering during deceleration, and premature warping of the brake rotors. The frustration associated with these problems was significant enough that Jeep eventually updated their vehicles with Akebono calipers under warranty to address the widespread complaints. However, it's not uncommon to find that many of these earlier WJ models still retain their original Teves calipers.

Identifying which type of caliper your Jeep is equipped with is a straightforward process. Simply take a look through your wheel at the caliper itself. If you can clearly see an external wire spring running along the underside of the caliper, you are looking at the Teves model. In contrast, the Akebono calipers present a much more solid and robust appearance, lacking any visible external spring wires.

For those who have identified the Teves calipers on their WJ, it is highly recommended to consider replacing them proactively. Allowing Teves calipers to remain in place, especially when they begin to exhibit signs of sticking, can lead to more significant and costly damage down the line, potentially affecting your rotors and other brake components. The good news is that a direct and effective solution is readily available.

NAPA Auto Parts offers complete, loaded Akebono calipers that are designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the problematic Teves units. This means they utilise the same mounting points and bolts as your original calipers, simplifying the replacement process significantly. These are typically sold as 'loaded calipers with the mounting bracket', ensuring you have all the necessary components for a complete upgrade. The typical part numbers to look for are LE5377 for one side and LE5378 for the other. While they represent an investment, costing around $85 each, the peace of mind and improved braking performance they deliver make them well worth the expense.

When undertaking the replacement, you'll generally need an 18mm socket for the caliper mounting bolts and a 14mm wrench for disconnecting the brake line. It's crucial to note that the replacement kit usually includes new copper washers, which are essential for a proper seal when refitting the brake line. Remember to use one new copper washer on each side of the brake line connection to prevent leaks.

Here's a visual comparison to help you identify your current calipers:

The image provided clearly illustrates the Teves caliper, with the distinctive wire spring running along its bottom. This is the type of caliper you definitely do not want to see if you're experiencing braking issues on your Jeep.

Why Upgrade to Akebono Calipers?

The primary reason to consider replacing your Teves calipers is to prevent future brake problems. The tendency for Teves calipers to stick can lead to a cascade of issues. A sticking caliper can cause one side of your vehicle to brake more aggressively than the other, leading to uneven tyre wear and unpredictable handling. More critically, a caliper that remains partially applied will generate excessive heat. This heat can quickly transfer to the brake rotor, causing it to overheat, leading to brake fade (a reduction in braking effectiveness) and, in severe cases, warping the rotor. Replacing warped rotors is a significantly more expensive repair than simply replacing the calipers themselves.

Furthermore, the shuddering often associated with Teves calipers is not just an annoyance; it can be a sign of uneven braking force or heat distribution within the braking system. This can make it difficult to control the vehicle smoothly, especially during emergency braking situations. By upgrading to Akebono calipers, you are investing in a more reliable and consistent braking performance. The Akebono design is generally more robust and less prone to the seizing and sticking issues that plague the Teves units.

The Replacement Process: A Closer Look

While this article focuses on the decision to replace, it's worth touching upon the practicalities. The replacement of brake calipers is a task that many DIY enthusiasts can undertake. However, it's essential to have the correct tools and a good understanding of brake system maintenance. When you disconnect the brake line, brake fluid will inevitably leak out. It's important to have a container ready to catch this fluid and to dispose of it responsibly, as brake fluid is corrosive and harmful to the environment.

After the calipers are replaced, the brake system will need to be bled to remove any air that may have entered the lines. Air in the brake lines will result in a spongy brake pedal and significantly reduced braking effectiveness. Proper bleeding is crucial for the safety and performance of your braking system. If you are not comfortable with brake bleeding or any aspect of this procedure, it is always advisable to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic.

Common Questions About Caliper Replacement:

Q1: How do I know for sure if I have Teves calipers?
A1: As mentioned, the easiest way is to look for the external wire spring along the bottom of the caliper when viewing it through the wheel. Teves calipers have this spring; Akebono calipers do not.

Q2: Are Akebono calipers the only good replacement option?
A2: While Akebono is a well-regarded brand and a direct upgrade, other reputable aftermarket brands also offer quality replacement calipers. However, for a direct, hassle-free fit on WJ models that originally came with Teves, Akebono is a highly recommended choice.

Q3: Can I just rebuild my Teves calipers instead of replacing them?
A3: While caliper rebuild kits are available, given the inherent design flaws and common failure modes of Teves calipers, many mechanics and experienced owners find that replacement with a more reliable unit like the Akebono is a more cost-effective and reliable long-term solution. Rebuilding may only offer a temporary fix.

Q4: What are the signs that my calipers are failing?
A4: Common signs include a pulling sensation to one side when braking, a consistently spongy or soft brake pedal, a burning smell from the wheels, visible brake dust build-up on one wheel that's much heavier than the others, and, of course, the shuddering or sticking you might already be experiencing.

Q5: Do I need to replace the rotors at the same time?
A5: It's not always mandatory, but if your rotors are already warped, scored, or have excessive runout, it's highly recommended to replace them along with the calipers. Installing new calipers on damaged rotors will negate some of the benefits of the upgrade and can even lead to premature wear of the new calipers.

In conclusion, if your 1999-2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ is still fitted with the original Teves brake calipers, making the switch to Akebono units is a proactive and sensible maintenance decision. It addresses known issues, enhances braking safety and performance, and can save you from more costly repairs in the future. The investment in quality replacement calipers like the Akebono LE5377 and LE5378 is a sound one for any WJ owner seeking reliable braking.

If you want to read more articles similar to Akebono vs. Teves Brake Calipers, you can visit the Brakes category.