How much do calipers cost to replace?
Replacing a single brake caliper typically runs about 250 to 800 in total, depending on part choice and labor rates. Parts usually account for most of the cost, with higher prices for OEM or front calipers and lower prices for remanufactured or aftermarket parts. Labor varies by vehicle and region, but most people see a combined bill in the lower end of that range for a single caliper and higher if both sides are replaced or if premium parts are used.
In this article, we break down the pricing landscape for brake calipers, explain what drives the cost, and outline what to expect when budgeting for a replacement. The goal is to help you understand the choices available and how they affect your final bill.
Cost drivers
Caliper replacement costs are influenced by the type of caliper you choose (remanufactured, aftermarket new, OEM new, or used), whether you replace one caliper or both on an axle, and the labor rate at your shop. Vehicle make and model can also shift prices, especially for luxury brands or high-performance applications where parts and service are more expensive.
Part options and typical prices
Before listing prices, note that part costs vary by brand, vehicle, and whether the caliper is front or rear. The ranges below reflect common market prices as of 2024–2025.
- Remanufactured calipers: typically $100–$250 per caliper.
- Aftermarket new calipers (non-OEM): $60–$350 per caliper.
- New OEM calipers (dealer/brand): $200–$700 per caliper.
- Used or salvaged calipers: $40–$150 per caliper.
Overall, most drivers can expect to spend a portion of the above ranges per caliper, with higher bills for front calipers on many cars and for OEM parts on premium brands. When considering replacement on both sides, multiply by two for a close estimate.
Labor and additional costs
Labor costs depend on shop rates, location, the vehicle’s design, and whether you’re replacing one or both calipers. The following factors commonly affect the total bill and should be considered alongside parts.
- Labor time: roughly 1–3 hours per caliper, depending on vehicle and whether other components need service.
- Hourly labor rate: typically $75–$150+ per hour, varying by region and shop.
- Additional parts and services: brake pads, rotors, mounting hardware, brake fluid, and flushing may be needed or recommended.
- Diagnostics and shop fees: disposal fees, environmental charges, and basic diagnostics can add a small amount to the total.
- Vehicle type impact: luxury or specialty vehicles often incur higher parts and labor costs.
In practice, labor can add substantially to the part price, and replacing both calipers on an axle can effectively double the labor portion of the bill. If you replace both front calipers on a typical sedan with remanufactured parts, a common expectation might be around 350–700 for the job; with OEM parts or on more complex vehicles, costs can rise toward 900 or more per axle.
What to expect by vehicle type
Costs tend to skew higher for high-end or performance vehicles due to more expensive parts and longer labor times, and lower for economy or older vehicles where remanufactured or aftermarket parts are commonly chosen to save money. Always verify whether the caliper is front or rear, as front calipers are often more costly and sometimes require additional hardware or software updates for newer systems.
Summary
Replacing a brake caliper is typically a multi-part decision: you choose between remanufactured, aftermarket, OEM new, or used parts, and you budget for labor that reflects your local market and the vehicle’s specifics. A practical mid-range expectation for a single caliper replacement falls roughly between 250 and 800, with higher-end parts and front calipers pushing costs upward. When planning, consider whether both sides must be replaced, and factor in potential additional costs for pads, rotors, fluids, and shop fees. Getting quotes from a few reputable shops and confirming whether the price includes parts and labor or just one element will help you avoid surprises and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
