How much is a brake job on a Ford Escape?

For a Ford Escape, a routine brake job typically costs about $150–$300 per axle for pads alone, with rotor replacement or resurfacing driving the price up to roughly $300–$600 per axle. A full front-and-rear brake job across both axles commonly falls in the $600–$1,200 range, depending on parts and local labor rates.

Brake service costs vary by year, trim, region and the shop you choose. This article breaks down typical costs, what’s included, and ways to save while keeping your braking system safe.

What a brake job typically includes

Most brake jobs cover replacement of worn components, a check of the overall braking system, and sometimes a fluid flush or hardware replacement. The exact combination depends on wear and the shop’s assessment.

• Brake pads on the affected axle (front, rear, or both) that are worn below recommended thickness and require replacement.


• Rotors or discs: replaced if they are below minimum thickness or show scoring, or resurfaced if feasible to restore a smooth surface.


• Calipers and hardware: replaced or rebuilt if sticking, leaking, or worn; this can include guide pins and anti-rattle clips.


• Brake fluid flush and bleed (often recommended every 2–3 years) to maintain hydraulic performance.


• Hardware and shims: used to ensure proper pad alignment and reduce noise.


• Brake wear sensors or warning lights: checked and replaced if present on the Escape’s brakes.

In practice, many shops quote a pads-only job as the baseline and present rotors or calipers as add-ons depending on wear discovered during inspection.

Price ranges by component and service

The following ranges reflect typical out-of-pocket costs (parts plus labor) as of 2025, and can vary by region and shop.

• Pads replacement (per axle, parts + labor): 150–300 USD


• Rotor replacement (per axle, including rotor cost and labor): 200–450 USD


• Rotor resurfacing (per axle, when offered): 60–150 USD


• Pads + rotors (per axle): 300–600 USD


• Full front and rear brake job (both axles): 600–1,200 USD

These figures are broad estimates. The exact price for your Escape will depend on year, trim, rotor size, local labor rates, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts.

Regional and shop factors

Several factors influence the final price beyond the basic components.

• Local labor rates and whether you go to a dealership, independent shop, or quick-lube center.


• Vehicle year and brake hardware complexity, which can affect labor time.


• Choice between OEM (factory) parts versus aftermarket equivalents, which vary in price and warranty.


• Rotor size and availability of specific parts for the Escape model year.


• Need for caliper replacement, pads and rotors, or just pads; fluid flush or additional services.


• Taxes, shop disposal fees, and any promotional discounts or coupons.

Understanding these factors helps you set realistic expectations and compare quotes accurately.

What Ford Escape owners should know

Before committing to service, consider these practical steps to avoid surprises and get a fair quote.

• Ask for a written estimate with separate line items for pads, rotors, and fluids so you can compare parts and labor clearly.


• Request to know whether rotors are being replaced or resurfaced, and whether a hydraulic fluid flush is included.


• Check the pad wear indicator and measure rotor thickness; if rotors can be resurfaced, confirm this option with the shop.


• Inquire about the warranty on parts and workmanship, and whether any rework is required if issues appear later.

Doing your homework and getting multiple quotes can save money while ensuring the job is done safely.

DIY vs professional service

Brake work is a critical safety task. For most drivers, a professional brake service is recommended, especially on modern SUVs like the Ford Escape.

• DIY considerations include having the right tools, a clean workspace, and the ability to safely bleed brakes and ventilate the system.


• Professional service ensures proper torque on caliper mounting bolts, correct rotor seating, and a safe road test.


• Factory warranties or service contracts may require maintenance records from a qualified shop.

Unless you have substantial automotive experience and access to the right equipment, professional service minimizes risk and ensures the brakes perform as designed.

Summary

Brake service costs for a Ford Escape vary widely based on what parts are replaced, the model year, and local labor rates. Expect roughly $150–$300 per axle for pads alone, $300–$600 per axle if rotors are added, and $600–$1,200 for a full front-and-rear job. Always obtain an itemized estimate and consider both OEM and aftermarket options to balance safety, performance, and price.

What is a fair price for a brake job?

A fair price for a brake job is typically $300 to $600 for one axle (either front or rear pads and rotors) and $600 to $1,200 or more for all four brakes. The total cost depends on your vehicle's make and model, the quality of parts used, and whether only pads or pads and rotors are being replaced. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Parts: The price of parts like brake pads, rotors, and calipers varies by brand and quality. 
• Vehicle type: Luxury, trucks, or performance cars often cost more due to higher-end parts and more complex systems. 
• Labor: Labor costs vary based on the shop's rates and the complexity of the job. More complex tasks, like replacing rotors, take more time and increase the labor cost. 
• Additional services: Some repairs may require additional parts or services, such as brake fluid replacement or caliper repair, which will increase the final price. 

How to get a fair price

• Get multiple quotes: Contact a few different shops for estimates to compare prices and services. 
• Ask about parts: Be sure to ask what kind of parts are being used and if there are different quality options. Using OEM or premium aftermarket parts can impact the cost. 
• Consider the scope of work: Make sure you know what's included in the quote. Some repairs may only need brake pads, while others may need rotors, or even calipers, which will affect the price. 
• Check online reviews: Look up reviews of the shops you're considering to ensure you'll be getting quality service. 

How much are brake pads and rotors for a 2017 Ford Escape?

Brake pads for a Ford Escape can cost anywhere between $150 per axle and $450 per axle depending on the type of brake pad necessary. Ford Escape Brake rotor replacement can cost anywhere between $300 - $750 for all four rotors to be replaced. This price estimate includes labor and parts.

How much does Ford charge for a brake job?

How much does Ford charge for brake job? Ford brake pads can cost you between $185 per axle and $375 per axle depending on the type of brake pad desired.

What is the most common problem with a Ford Escape?

The biggest problems with the Ford Escape are transmission failures and engine issues, particularly in specific model years like 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2020–2022. Other common complaints include ignition misfires and, in some hybrid models, fire risks from lithium-ion batteries. 
This video explains some common issues with the Ford Escape, including transmission and engine problems: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jan 31, 2025
Transmission issues

• Widespread problem: Transmission issues are frequently cited as the most significant weakness across multiple model years.
• Symptoms: Drivers report issues like harsh, jerky shifts, and complete failure.
• Timing: For some newer models, critical failures can occur around or after the warranty expires, with replacement costs averaging around $4,000.
• Affected models: Some particularly troublesome years include 2008, 2014, and 2016, but other years are also affected. 

Engine problems

• Ignition misfires: A very common problem reported by owners, often affecting models from 2001 through 2013. 
• Engine failure: Some model years have been associated with more severe engine issues. 
• Other issues: Some models have experienced oil leaks and other engine-related problems. 

This video discusses common engine problems in the Ford Escape: 58sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 10, 2025
Hybrid-specific issues

• Fire risk: A class-action lawsuit alleges that lithium-ion batteries in some hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have a risk of suddenly catching fire. 
• Coolant pump failure: Hybrid models may experience coolant pump failure, which can cause the check engine light to come on and lead to engine shutdown.