How much does it cost to get all 4 brakes replaced?
In most cases, replacing all four brakes (pads and rotors on all wheels) runs about $400 to $1,400 in the United States, depending on parts quality, vehicle type, and labor rates. premium parts or larger vehicles can push the total higher.
What is included when you replace all four brakes
When a shop says they’re replacing all four brakes, they typically mean a complete service on all four wheels. The exact scope can vary based on wear and your vehicle’s setup, but the following components are commonly involved.
- Brake pads for all four wheels (new pads on each axle)
- Brake rotors/discs for all four wheels (new rotors or resurfaced ones as needed)
- Brake hardware and anti-rattle/shim components
- Calipers replaced only if they are seized, leaking, or otherwise faulty
- Brake fluid flush and system bleed (recommended every 2–3 years, optional but common)
Prices depend on whether rotors are replaced or resurfaced, and whether calipers need replacement. Always verify exactly what is included in a quoted job.
Cost ranges: parts, labor, and scenarios
Prices vary with parts quality, vehicle type, and regional labor rates. The following ranges reflect typical U.S. pricing for 2024–2025.
Budget parts and standard rotors
These figures assume economy or mid-range parts and standard-duty rotors. They provide a baseline for a four-wheel brake job.
- Pads (all four wheels): $60–$150
- Rotors (four, all wheels): $60–$180
- Labor (all four wheels): $100–$260
- Brake fluid flush (optional): $50–$100
Overall, a budget four-wheel brake replacement typically falls in the range of about $270–$690, depending on exact parts and local labor rates.
Premium parts and/or larger vehicles
For higher-end pads, performance compounds, or larger vehicles (SUVs/trucks) with bigger rotors, costs rise accordingly.
- Pads (all four wheels): $150–$350
- Rotors (four, all wheels): $150–$360
- Labor (all four wheels): $180–$400
- Brake fluid flush (optional): $60–$120
Overall, premium four-wheel brake replacements typically run roughly $540–$1,180, with higher-end materials or complex setups pushing beyond that range.
Other factors that affect price
Several factors influence the final bill beyond parts and labor:
- Vehicle type and rotor size (compact cars vs. SUVs/trucks)
- Rotor replacement vs. resurfacing (resurfacing is cheaper but not always possible)
- Caliper condition and potential replacement
- Brake-fluid type and any required ABS/sensor work
- Shop type and location (dealerships tend to be more expensive than independent shops)
- Add-ons such as new hardware, sensor replacements, or extended warranties
To avoid surprises, ask for a detailed, itemized estimate that lists parts, labor, and any ancillary services. If your vehicle has high-mileage or unusual braking components, the shop may adjust the scope accordingly.
Summary
Replacing all four brakes is a substantial maintenance item with price variation driven by parts quality, rotor needs, vehicle size, and local labor rates. Expect a baseline around $300–$700 for budget parts with rotors and labor, and $500–$1,200 or more for premium parts or larger vehicles. Always get multiple quotes, confirm what’s included in the service, and consider future maintenance costs like fluid flushes or sensor replacements.
Why are brake jobs so expensive?
Brake jobs are expensive due to the combined cost of quality parts, labor time, and shop overhead. The price of a brake job varies based on your vehicle's make and model, the type of brake components needed (like OEM vs. aftermarket parts or whether rotors need replacement), and the shop's labor rate. Factors like complex modern systems, detailed inspections, and potential issues with other components can also add to the cost.
Components contributing to the cost
- Parts: The cost of brake pads and rotors can vary significantly.
- Vehicle type and luxury: High-performance or luxury vehicles often have more expensive parts.
- Quality: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and high-performance options are often more expensive than standard aftermarket parts.
- Rotors: If rotors are worn or warped, they must be resurfaced or replaced, which adds to the total price.
- Labor: This is a major component of the cost.
- Skill and time: Replacing brakes is a detailed process that requires expertise and time, including a thorough inspection of the entire system. Shops often use a standard book time for the repair, which can be around 1.5 to 2.0 hours per axle, depending on the vehicle.
- Complexity: Modern brake systems can be more complex, requiring specialized tools or procedures.
- Other repairs: The total labor cost increases if additional repairs are needed for other parts, such as calipers or brake lines.
- Overhead: Shops have costs like rent, insurance, and utilities that are factored into the price of their services. Dealerships often have higher overhead than independent shops, which is reflected in their prices.
- Other factors:
- Shop location: Labor rates can vary depending on the cost of living in a specific area.
- Shop policies: Some shops may have surcharges or specific shop fees that increase the final price.
How much does it cost to repair all four brake pads?
Typically replacing both the front and rear brake pads cost anywhere between £250 to more than £500. According to whocanfixmycar, the average cost to replace the front pads is around £127, and another £121 for the rear pads. The price can be significantly more if your brake discs also need replacing.
How much does it cost to have all four brake pads replaced?
Replacing all four brake pads typically costs between $230 and $600, but this does not include rotors. If the rotors also need replacement, the total cost can range from $500 to over $1,000, depending on the vehicle, parts quality, and labor rates. Labor costs and the quality of parts significantly impact the final price.
Factors that influence the cost
- Rotors: It is recommended to replace rotors when you replace the pads, especially if they show signs of wear. This is because new pads on a damaged rotor can reduce braking performance and safety.
- Labor: Dealerships and shops in high-cost-of-living areas will likely have higher labor rates than independent mechanics or chain stores.
- Parts: The quality of the brake pads and rotors can vary, from basic parts to premium ones, which will affect the total price.
- Vehicle type: The make and model of your car, especially if it's a luxury, performance, or heavy-duty vehicle, can affect the price due to the cost of parts and the complexity of the job.
Cost breakdown
- Brake pads only: A professional replacement for all four pads (parts and labor) can range from $230 to $600.
- Brake pads and rotors: If rotors need replacement as well, the cost can be between $500 and $1,000 for the entire vehicle, depending on the factors mentioned above.
How much are brakes and rotors for all 4?
On average, the cost of replacing all four brake rotors and brake pads can range anywhere from $300 to $800 for most vehicles. The cost of replacing brake drums and shoes can range from $250 to $400 per axle for most vehicles.
