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How much should I pay to replace brakes and rotors?

The cost to replace brakes and rotors can vary significantly depending on factors like the make and model of your vehicle, the type of brake components needed, and the labor costs in your local area. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 to $800 to have your brakes and rotors replaced by a professional mechanic.


Factors Affecting Brake Replacement Costs


Several key factors influence the total cost of a brake and rotor replacement job:



  • Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury and high-performance vehicles typically require more expensive brake components, leading to higher overall costs.

  • Brake Type: Vehicles with disc brakes on all four wheels will generally cost more to service than those with rear drum brakes.

  • Labor Costs: Hourly labor rates can vary significantly by region and shop, with higher-end repair facilities charging more.

  • Rotor Condition: If the rotors are severely worn, they may need to be replaced rather than just resurfaced, adding to the overall cost.

  • Parts Quality: Using premium brake pads and rotors will cost more than economy-grade components.


It's important to get quotes from multiple repair shops to compare prices and find the best value for your specific vehicle and needs.


Typical Brake Replacement Costs


Here are some general estimates for the cost to replace brakes and rotors on common vehicle types:



  • Small/Midsize Car: $300 - $500

  • Full-Size Car: $400 - $600

  • SUV/Truck: $500 - $800

  • High-Performance/Luxury Vehicle: $600 - $1,000+


These prices include both parts and labor, but can vary significantly based on the specific factors mentioned earlier. It's always a good idea to get a detailed estimate from a trusted mechanic before authorizing any brake work.

Are brake jobs expensive?


Brake service generally runs approximately $200 to $500 per axle at a professional center. Calipers are typically the most difficult and expensive aspect of the braking system to service. A single caliper can cost up to $130 and several will reach prices even higher.



How much does a full brake line job cost?


On average, the repair can range from $150 to $550, and replacement between $150 and $350. Symptoms like leaking brake fluid, reduced braking power, corrosion, squealing or grinding brakes, and a mushy brake pedal can indicate bad brake lines.



How much should I pay someone for doing my brakes?


So, plan to purchase new pads and new rotors together. Each aftermarket rotor costs an average of $30 to $75. Labor to service brakes can run from $90 to $200 per hour. Brake service generally runs approximately $200 to $500 per axle at a professional center.



How to tell if rotors are bad?


Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.



How much does 4 brake lines cost?


In most cases, the cost to replace brake lines is between $150 and $300 per brake line, including installation. If you replace all four brake lines, costs can quickly add up. Here's a brake line cost breakdown by type of vehicle. You'll notice there's a big range.



How many hours labor is a full brake job?


between four and six hours
A complete brake job has an estimated labor time of anywhere between four and six hours, depending on several factors. It involves a thorough inspection of the entire braking system and its parts. Mechanics usually check for leaks, corroded brake lines, seized pistons, and other worn-out brake hardware.



How much does a brake job cost at a dealership?


Replacing brake pads at a dealership can be the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $500 to $1000 or more. Independent mechanics typically charge less, with prices ranging from $200 to $500.



How much should it cost to replace brake pads and rotors?


Just pads, or more?: Sometimes when a vehicle needs new brake pads, it needs new rotors as well. If your vehicle does indeed need both of these replacements, it will be $250-$500 per axle — or $500-$1,000 for the entire vehicle — to replace both the brake pads and rotors.



How long does it take to change 4 brakes and 4 rotors?


Changing a brake pad often takes 30 minutes per wheel. Replacing a brake rotor can range from 30 to 60 minutes per wheel. On average, it can take around 1 hour and 30 minutes for an expert to completely change the brake pads and rotors on all four wheels.



Should I replace all 4 brakes and rotors?


Manufacturer Recommendations: Some carmakers require replacing all four pads for optimal braking performance and safety. Balanced Braking: Having new pads on both axles ensures even braking force distribution, crucial for maintaining control during stops.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.