How much does it cost to replace brake calipers on a Honda Civic?
Expect roughly $250 to $700 per caliper, and about $500 to $1,400 per axle if replacing calipers on both sides of the same axle. Prices rise with dealer parts, higher labor rates, or added work.
Brake caliper replacement for a Honda Civic involves choosing between remanufactured (rebuilt) parts and new OEM calipers, plus labor. The total price depends on the car’s model year, the shop’s location, and whether other components (pads, rotors, hoses, brake fluid, or ABS-related work) are needed. The following sections break down typical costs, factors that influence pricing, and what to expect during service.
Cost ranges and scenarios
The following ranges reflect common pricing in the United States for parts plus labor. They illustrate how costs vary by caliper type and how much work is done on an axle.
- Single front caliper replacement with a remanufactured/caliper: about $180–$450 total.
- Single front caliper replacement with a new OEM caliper: about $270–$650 total.
- Both front calipers (two calipers on the front axle) with remanufactured parts: about $360–$900 total.
- Both front calipers (two calipers on the front axle) with new OEM parts: about $540–$1,300 total.
- Single rear caliper replacement with a remanufactured part: about $170–$460 total.
- Single rear caliper replacement with a new OEM part: about $260–$660 total.
- Both rear calipers (two on the rear axle) with remanufactured parts: about $340–$900 total.
- All four calipers replaced (front and rear) with remanufactured parts: about $700–$1,800 total.
- All four calipers replaced with new OEM parts: about $1,100–$2,600 total.
Conclusion: These figures provide a broad ballpark. Real quotes vary by model year, whether you need rotors or pads replaced, local labor rates, and whether you buy remanufactured or OEM calipers. Always request a written estimate before work begins.
Factors that influence price
Several variables influence the final bill. The following factors commonly affect how much you pay for caliper replacement on a Civic.
- Part choice: remanufactured vs new/OEM calipers, plus brand differences.
- Labor rate and shop location: urban areas, dealer shops, or specialty shops tend to be more expensive.
- Scope of work: replacing one caliper vs. all four calipers; whether you also replace pads, rotors, or brake lines.
- Brake system needs: if brake fluid bleeding is required or if ABS-related diagnostics are needed, which adds time.
- Rotor condition: warped or grooved rotors may require resurfacing or replacement, increasing total cost.
In practice, the choice between reman and OEM parts often drives the biggest price delta. OEM calipers carry higher upfront cost but may come with different warranties and direct-fit compatibility.
Caliper options: remanufactured vs. new
Remanufactured (reman) calipers
Reman calipers offer substantial savings and are a common choice for Civic owners looking to control costs. They’re rebuilt with new seals and components, tested, and sold with a warranty in many cases. Labor remains the same, but the per-caliper price is lower.
New OEM calipers
New OEM calipers (or high-quality aftermarket equivalents sold as OEM-style) typically cost more upfront but can offer longer warranties and potentially quicker guidance on fit and performance. Expect higher parts costs, with similar labor times.
What to expect during the repair process
Understanding the typical repair workflow can help you plan your day and your budget. The steps below illustrate a common sequence in a shop setting.
The following workflow outlines a typical caliper replacement process, including the diagnostic and service steps you may encounter.
- Vehicle evaluation and brake system diagnosis to confirm caliper issues and identify related components needing service.
- Removal of the affected wheel and brake assembly, including caliper, pads, and rotor inspection.
- Caliper replacement and reassembly, with attention to proper alignment and torque specs on fasteners.
- Brake fluid bleeding and lines purge to remove air and ensure proper pedal feel.
- Road test and final inspection, including checking for leaks and confirming correct caliper operation.
After the service, expect to receive a detailed invoice that lists parts, labor hours, and any additional services performed. If new pads or rotors were installed, you’ll also receive guidance on bed-in procedures and break-in maintenance.
Tips to save on cost
If you’re shopping around for a Civic caliper replacement, consider these strategies to manage your costs without compromising safety.
- Compare quotes from multiple shops, including independent garages and dealer service departments.
- Ask about remanufactured vs new calipers and request specific part numbers to compare warranties.
- Inquire about bundled services, such as replacing pads/rotors at the same time, to qualify for package pricing.
- Check whether the shop charges a diagnostic fee and if that fee is waived with service.
- Confirm whether core charges are included in the estimate and how they’re refunded.
Being informed and requesting itemized estimates can help you avoid sticker shock and ensure you’re paying for the exact services you need.
Summary
Replacing brake calipers on a Honda Civic is a mid-range to high-cost brake repair, heavily influenced by part choice (reman vs OEM), labor rates, and whether additional work is needed on rotors, pads, or the brake fluid system. Plan for a spectrum from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the number of calipers replaced and the shop selected. Getting multiple written estimates and clarifying what’s included will help you secure a fair price while keeping your braking system safe and reliable.
