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Brakes Cost

How Much Do Brakes Cost?

Medium: $100-$250

Related Topics:

Wheel Alignment

Replacing a CV Boot

Replacing a Timing Belt

All Cars

Brakes may need to be replaced when wheels make a high pitched screeching or grinding noise, if brakes fail to slow or stop the car normally, if brake pedal slowly drops to the floor after brakes are engaged, if vehicle pulls to one side while braking, or if vibrations can be felt from the pedal while brakes are applied.

Typical costs:

$90 to $250, per axle. Many low cost advertised specials include only basic inspection and brake pad replacement.
Costs vary from one make and model to another, but cars with higher initial purchase prices tend to be more expensive to repair as the parts also tend to cost more than their more economical counterparts and sometimes involve more complex systems that require more labor.
Some examples of typical prices for front brake pads: 2005 Audi A6, $215. 2005 Toyota Camry, $150. 2005 Dodge Caravan, $185.
Prices also vary depending on prevailing labor costs. If workers tend to be paid less than average in your area, you may find lower prices.

What should be included:

Road test to check for problems and current operating condition.
Removal of wheels and inspection of brake pads, rotors, bearings and calipers.
Inspecting and/or replacing brake hoses, mounting clips, anti-rattle shims, brake pads.
Cleaning components, inspecting and possibly resurfacing or replacing the brake rotors, cleaning and repacking bearings. (Most front wheel drive cars have hub bearings, which are typically inspected and replaced if necessary, rather than being serviced).
Some, but not all, vehicles also require a hydraulic brake system flush.

Additional costs:

Condition of additional brake parts, beyond pads, that need to be replaced, will increase costs.
If rotors need to be replaced, expect repairs to increase to $300-$650.

Discounts:

Some repair shops offer discounts for AAA members.

Shopping for brakes:

Find a mechanic before you need one. Do your research and locate a mechanic you trust before you actually need servicing, so you aren't stuck with the first mechanic you find during a time of need.
If you don't already have a mechanic, look for mechanics who are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Search for ASE certified Blue Seal repair facilities.
Check with your state consumer affairs department or The Better Business Bureau to see if the shop has generated a lot of consumer complaints.

Article updated February 2007