How much does it cost to replace a caliper on a Ford F150?
Typically, about 300 to 650 dollars for one caliper, parts and labor included. The final price depends on whether the caliper is on the front or rear axle, the type of part (remanufactured, aftermarket, or OEM), whether rotors or pads need replacement, and local labor rates.
What affects the cost
The price for replacing a caliper on a Ford F-150 is driven by several variables. Understanding these helps you get a realistic quote.
Caliper type (front vs rear)
- Front calipers typically cost more to replace due to higher braking loads and more complex design.
- Rear calipers are usually less expensive, though exact pricing depends on model year and brake system configuration.
The position of the caliper can swing the total by a few hundred dollars, so identify whether the work is on the front axle, rear axle, or both.
Parts quality and source
- Remanufactured calipers are generally cheaper and often come with a warranty.
- New aftermarket calipers strike a balance between price and performance.
- New OEM/caliper from the dealer is typically the most expensive option but ensures exact fit and original specifications.
Part choice is a major price driver, and some shops offer bundles with pads or rotors.
Additional services and components
- Rotors: If warped or worn, you may need rotor replacement or resurfacing, adding roughly 60–200 dollars per rotor.
- Brake pads: Replacement can add about 50–150 dollars.
- Brake fluid flush and ABS bleed: May add 40–150 dollars.
Combining caliper replacement with rotor/pad changes and fluid work can significantly increase the total.
Labor rates and location
- Labor rates vary widely by region, commonly from about 70 to 120 dollars per hour in the United States.
- Dealerships generally charge more than independent shops, and warranty considerations can affect pricing.
In higher-cost areas, a single caliper replacement can push prices toward the upper end of the range.
Typical cost ranges
The following ranges reflect common quotes for a single caliper replacement on a Ford F-150 as of 2025, including parts and labor. Exact prices vary by shop, location, and part choice.
- Front caliper replacement (one caliper): commonly $300–$650
- Rear caliper replacement (one caliper): commonly $230–$600
- Two calipers (on the same axle or on both axles) plus usual rotor/pad work: commonly $600–$1,400 or more
Note: If you replace multiple calipers or add rotor/pad work, expect the total to rise accordingly. Always confirm what’s included in the quote (pads, rotors, fluid, taxes, disposal fees, etc.).
Do-it-yourself vs professional service
Replacing a brake caliper can save on labor costs, but it requires mechanical skill, the right tools, and careful safety procedures. If you’re comfortable with brake systems and know how to bleed brakes properly, you can cut labor by performing the job yourself. If not, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and correctly, especially with ABS-equipped systems like those on many F-150 models.
DIY considerations
- Cost savings: Labor is the primary factor you can avoid by doing it yourself.
- Tools required: Torque wrench, brake bleeder kit, line wrench, caliper tool, and proper jacks stands.
- Risks: Air in the brake lines, leaks, improper bleeding, or damage to rotors or brake lines can compromise safety.
If you’re unsure about procedure, it’s wise to consult a repair manual or a professional technician before attempting the replacement.
How to get an accurate quote
To compare prices effectively, ask shops to itemize parts and labor and to specify whether rotor and pad work is included. The following details should be part of any estimate.
- Parts type and quantity (reman vs new OEM) for each caliper
- Labor hours and hourly rate
- Rotor/pad replacement costs and whether a brake fluid flush/ABS bleed is included
- Taxes, disposal fees, and any shop supplies
- Warranty terms on parts and labor
Having an itemized quote helps you compare options across shops and avoid surprises when you sign off on the work.
Summary
For a Ford F-150, replacing a single brake caliper typically runs about 300–650 dollars, with front calipers generally commanding higher prices than rear ones. If you add rotor/pad work or replace multiple calipers, the total can rise to roughly 600–1,400 dollars or more. Prices vary by part choice (reman, aftermarket, OEM), labor rates, and location. Always obtain an itemized estimate, consider both DIY and professional options, and prioritize safe braking performance as the final measure of value.
How much does it cost to replace a caliper on a Ford F-150?
The average cost for a Ford F-150 Brake Caliper Replacement is between $533 and $613.
Can you still drive with a bad caliper?
No, you should not drive with a bad brake caliper because it can lead to brake failure, loss of control, and accidents. A bad caliper compromises braking efficiency, can cause a vehicle to pull to one side, and is a serious safety risk. It's safest to avoid driving the vehicle and have it towed to a repair shop for a professional inspection and fix.
Risks of driving with a bad caliper
- Brake failure: A bad caliper can lead to a complete loss of braking ability, especially if it's leaking or seized.
- Loss of control: Issues with a caliper can cause uneven braking, making the vehicle pull to one side. This makes the car difficult to handle and control.
- Increased stopping distance: A faulty caliper can't apply the correct pressure, which increases the distance needed to stop the vehicle.
- Further damage: A seized caliper can cause the brakes to overheat, leading to further damage and potentially a brake fire.
- Illegal to drive: Driving with defective brakes is illegal on public roads.
When to seek professional help
- If you notice any signs of a bad caliper, such as a grinding noise, pulling to one side, a soft brake pedal, or a burning smell, have it inspected immediately.
- If you cannot get to a repair shop safely, it's best to have the vehicle towed. Driving with a bad brake caliper is extremely dangerous and not worth the risk.
Can I replace just one caliper?
While you can technically replace just one brake caliper, it is strongly recommended to replace them in pairs (either both front or both rear) for balanced braking performance. Replacing only one caliper can lead to uneven braking, where the vehicle pulls to one side because one caliper is applying more force than the other. Replacing them as a pair is a "pay now, maybe save money later" approach, as the other caliper is likely to fail soon due to similar wear and tear.
This video explains why replacing both calipers is recommended, and shows examples of uneven brake wear: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jun 8, 2022
Reasons to replace in pairs
- Balanced braking: Brakes are designed to work symmetrically. Replacing both calipers on an axle ensures even hydraulic force and friction, preventing the vehicle from pulling to one side when you brake.
- Preventing future failure: If one caliper has failed, the other is often not far behind, having been exposed to the same conditions and mileage. Replacing only one means you'll likely need to replace the other one again soon.
- Avoiding premature wear: An uneven brake system can cause the new pads and rotors on the good side to wear down faster than the old ones on the other side, leading to premature replacement of those components as well.
- Ensuring consistent performance: Replacing them as a pair helps ensure that both sides of the vehicle brake with equal force and response, which is critical for safety and control.
How much is a 1 caliper replacement?
Replacing a single brake caliper typically costs $300 to $800, but can vary based on parts and labor. The total price depends on the cost of the new caliper, which ranges from about $50 to over $200, and the labor involved, which can be $80 to $200 per hour or more. A mechanic may also recommend replacing the pads, rotors, and brake fluid at the same time, which will increase the overall cost.
Cost breakdown
- Parts: A single new brake caliper can range from approximately $50 to over $200, depending on the vehicle's make and model and whether the part is an economy, remanufactured, or OEM equivalent. Heavier or performance vehicles may have more expensive calipers.
- Labor: A mechanic's labor rate can range from $90 to $200 per hour or more. Replacing a single caliper typically takes about an hour of labor, but can take longer depending on the vehicle.
- Additional services: It's common for mechanics to recommend replacing brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid at the same time as the caliper replacement to ensure the entire braking system is in good condition. This will add to the total cost.
How to save money
- DIY replacement: If you have the necessary tools and mechanical knowledge, replacing the caliper yourself can save a significant amount on labor costs.
- Shop around: Get quotes from multiple mechanics before committing to a repair, as prices can vary significantly.
- Compare parts: Ask mechanics if you can supply your own parts to potentially lower the overall cost, though some shops may not allow this.
