How much should a typical brake job cost?

Brake Pad Replacement Cost

When you take your car to a mechanic, a brake job can run you anywhere from $140 to $1000 or more per axle. The price difference can be attributed to several different factors, including: 

• The type, make, and model of your vehicle

• What’s included in the brake service package and accompanying warranty

• Fluctuations in part and labor costs

• Variations in taxes, surcharges, and shop fees

Table of Contents

Below are the average estimated brake pad and rotor replacement costs from a few different authorities around the web. It can be assumed that these ranges are for vehicles commonly found on the road.

Luxury and performance vehicles will usually see higher price tags on brake replacement.

Parts

Labor

Estimate Total Cost (per axle)

AutoZone

Pads: $35-$150

Rotors: $60-$210

Pads: $80-$120

Rotors: $150-$200

$250-$500

RepairPal

Pads: $143-$164

Rotors: $168-$233

Pads: $87-$110

Rotors: $136-$171

$473-$534

Kelly Blue Book

Pads: $96 - $113

Rotors: $110 - $217

Pads: $118 - $140

Rotors: $91 - $145

$282-$424

While these ranges serve as a decent starting point, they vary fairly significantly, making it difficult to pinpoint what you might actually pay for brake service on your vehicle.

To get the most accurate pricing on the brake pad and rotor replacement, we called dozens of service centers around the U.S. - including big names like Midas, Meineke, Firestone, Pep Boys, Christian Brothers Automotive, and Jiffy Lube - to ask what they charge for a brake replacement.

(Note that Walmart and Costco didn’t make the list, since they don’t actually do brakes.) 

Read on to see what we learned about the cost of new brake pads and rotors, as well as what accounts for the differences in pricing. 

Brake Pad Replacement Costs at a Glance

Here is our summary of actual quotes received for brake pad and rotor replacement services at leading automotive repair centers in the U.S. The price ranges are for a common commuter vehicle, such as a Nissan Altima, and are based on actual quotes gathered from at least two different locations per automotive service chain or franchise. 

Brake Pads Only

Brake Pads & Rotors

Christian Brothers Automotive

N/A

$380-$450 

Firestone

$250-$320 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$350-$450 

Jiffy Lube

N/A

$370-$410

Midas

$200-219 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$350-$400

Meineke

$130-$500 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$345-$500

Pep Boys

$209-$250 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$350-$435

Additional repair costs* commonly associated with brake pad replacement include:

• Brake fluid flush: $80-$120

• Brake caliper replacement: $166-$251 per caliper

• Brake line replacement: $156-$192

• Master cylinder replacement: $397-501

*Sources: repairpal.com and itstillruns.com

NuBrakes Brake Pad Replacement Cost

At NuBrakes, we want to provide the most convenient and trustworthy prices possible. Pricing is based on actual repairs completed by NuBrakes technicians using CarQuest premium OEM-equivalent ceramic brake pads and painted rotors. Costs include parts, labor, taxes, and fees.

It’s important to note that costs can vary depending on various factors, including your vehicle make and model and the pricing set by parts providers in different markets. 

Average Customer Rating

4.94/5 (14,000 + reviews and counting)

Services offered by NuBrakes

Brake Pad Replacement, Brake Rotor Replacement, Brake Caliper Replacement, Brake Fluid Exchange, Brake Drum Replacement, Brake Shoe Replacement, Wheel Cylinder Replacement, Brake Hose Repair, Brake System Inspection, Oil Change, Tire Rotation

Average service time

45-90 minutes

Common car makes serviced by NuBrakes

Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Infiniti, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Pontiac, Saturn, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo

Markets where NuBrakes operates

Atlanta, Austin, Chattanooga, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Knoxville, Nashville, San Antonio, Tampa

To request a quote for mobile brake repair near you, simply send us a few quick details about your vehicle, and we’ll get back to you with a transparent pricing estimate in under an hour.

What does brake pad replacement cost at Christian Brothers Automotive?

Christian Brothers Automotive is an automotive repair franchise with over 230 locations nationwide. They are known for friendly customer service, honest pricing and repairs, and comfortable waiting areas with free WIFI and coffee. 

On a typical vehicle (we asked about a Nissan Altima), brake pad and rotor replacement costs at Christian Brothers Automotive range from $380-$450. Unlike a lot of larger automotive repair providers, Christian Brothers Automotive does not machine rotors, nor do they recommend it.

Therefore, expect a complete brake pad and rotor replacement when you choose them to replace your brakes. Christian Brothers Automotive brake service includes a free courtesy inspection, 3 year/36,000 mile warranty, and complimentary shuttle service within five miles of the shop.

Christian Brothers Automotive

Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

N/A

$380-$440 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or original manufacturer’s recommendation

Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Options for rotors: Replace only

What does brake pad replacement cost at Meineke?

Meineke is a “one-stop” car care center with 900 franchise locations spread across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. Services include oil changes, brake repair, mufflers and exhaust, wheels and tires, A/C services, steering and suspension, batteries, and more. 

Starting prices for brake pad replacement and rotor resurfacing at Meineke range from $130-$300, plus tax. This is based on three different quotes received on the same Nissan Altima.

New brake pads and rotors at Meineke will cost anywhere from $275 to $500 per axle, depending on the franchise location. The median price quoted for new brake pads at Meineke was $240, while for pads and rotors, it was $345. 

Brake service at Meineke includes a free 23-point brake system inspection and is backed by a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty.

They use ceramic brake pads as a default but will adjust based on the type of brake pad the manufacturer recommends for your vehicle. Many Meineke locations are open seven days per week and offer 6-month financing options on purchases of $199 or more. 

Meineke

Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

$130-$300 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$345-$500 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or manufacturer’s specification

Warranty: 12 month/12,000 miles

Options for rotors: Resurface or replace

What does brake pad replacement cost at Midas?

Midas is an automotive repair chain with approximately 2,500 franchise locations throughout the country. Some of the most common repairs performed at Midas include brakes, tires, batteries, radiators, heating and cooling systems, and shock absorbers.

Midas charges approximately $200-$219 (plus tax) for front axle brake pad replacement and $350-$400 for new brake pads and rotors. These prices reflect quotes on a 2015 Nissan Altima from two different Midas locations.  

Midas’ brake replacement services are backed by the “Midas guarantee,” which includes a lifetime warranty on brake pads for as long as you own your vehicle. However, the warranty does not generally cover labor or damage caused by other brake system parts.

Midas

Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

$200-219 (includes rotor resurfacing)

$350-$400 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or original manufacturer’s recommendation

Warranty: Lifetime guarantee on brake pads (not including labor)

Options for rotors: Resurface or replace

What does brake pad replacement cost at Jiffy Lube?

Jiffy Lube is one of the most recognized names in auto repair, with a national footprint of more than 2,000 franchisee-owned service centers spread across the US. While best known for oil changes, they provide a range of preventive maintenance services, including inspections, brake repairs, air filter replacements, fluid exchange, suspensions, and tire rotations.

Brake replacement costs at Jiffy Lube are approximately $370-$410 per axle, based on two different quotes provided for a 2016 Nissan Altima.

However, the exact range will vary based on location and vehicle type. For example, Groupon advertises brake repair at certain Jiffy Lube locations starting at $179 per axle; however, a Yelp review for a Jiffy Lube in Indiana claimed that a customer was quoted $600 for complete brake service that included pads and rotors.

Unlike many brake repair and automotive shops, Jiffy Lube only offers a complete brake service, meaning they will not replace brake pads without replacing the rotors. 

Their brake service is backed by nationwide limited warranty of up to 24 months/24,000 miles on parts and 12 months/12,000 miles on labor. Depending on the Jiffy Lube you go to, you might also be able to find a discount on brake replacement posted on their website or a partner site like Yelp or Groupon. 

Jiffy Lube

Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

N/A

$370-$410 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or manufacturer’s specification

Options for rotors: Replace only

Warranty: 24 months/24,000 miles on parts, 12 months/12,000 miles on labor

What does brake pad replacement cost at Firestone?

With nearly 2,200 service centers across the United States, Firestone boasts one of the largest networks of company-owned automotive service providers in the world.

While best known for its tire centers, Firestone Complete Auto Care locations offer various services, including brakes, batteries, oil changes, alignment, and engine repair. Their website advertises free brake inspections that include measuring front and rear brake wear (pads/shoes and rotors/drums), brake fluid tests, and parking/emergency brake inspections.

Firestone brake replacement costs range from $350 to $470, including parts and labor on new pads and rotors. For new brake pads only, a service that includes resurfaced rotors, the cost will be reduced by $120-$180 per axle. In fact, Firestone offers three distinct brake service packages: standard, better, and best.

The prices quoted here are for their standard service, which includes new lifetime brake pads, rotor resurfacing or replacement, and a 1 year/12,000 mile warranty on labor.

Firestone

Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

$130-$240 per axle (includes rotor resurfacing)

$345-$398 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or manufacturer’s specification

Options for rotors: Resurface or replace

Warranty: Three different tiers, depending on service package. Ranges from 12 months/12,000 miles to lifetime parts and labor.

What does brake pad replacement cost at Pep Boys?

On a common vehicle like a sedan or smaller pickup, brake pad replacement at Pep Boys will typically run you $209-$250 plus tax. To replace both brakes and rotors at Pep Boys, you can expect to pay in the range of $350-$435.

This pricing reflects their standard brake service, which includes Wagner brake pad installation, resurfacing of brake rotors/drums, a lifetime warranty on brake pads/shoes, and a 1 year/12,000 mile warranty on labor. Their premium brake service costs extra and comes with a brake fluid flush and 2 year/24,000 mile warranty on labor.

With over 1,000 locations in the United States and Puerto Rico, Pep Boys is one of the most recognizable names in care care. Opening its first store in 1921, the company has expanded to more than 37 states and offers everything from name-brand tires, to fleet services, to general automotive maintenance and repair. 

Pep Boys Cost and Service Breakdown

Brake Pads

Brake Pads & Rotors

$209-$250 per axle (includes rotor resurfacing)

$350-$435 per axle

Type of brake pad used: Ceramic or manufacturer’s specification

Options for rotors: Resurface or replace

Warranty: Lifetime on brake pads; 6 months on labor

Frequently Asked Questions about Brake Pad Replacement Cost

What explains the difference in cost when it comes to brake replacement?

Considering cost is always a large part of replacing anything on your car, so it’s important to make sure you know where your money is being spent. Here are a few factors that explain the difference in brake repair costs from shop to shop.

Vehicle make and model

Brake parts for European-made cars such as Audis, BMWs, Jaguars, and Mercedes will typically cost you more than components for cars made in Japan or manufactured domestically. Apart from the brand of vehicle, its size and weight will also factor into the cost of brake replacement.

A heavy-duty diesel pickup is going to cost the driver way more than replacing brakes on a Kia Rio. Cars with 4-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive may also run a higher tab for brake replacement since there are usually more steps involved in removing them (and thus more costly labor).

The type and brand of brake components

Not all brake components are created equal. Depending on the type and brand used, a set of brake pads can cost as little as $20 to upwards of $160. Rotors can also vary significantly in quality and price, with budget rotors costing approximately $60 per axle and more premium brake rotors costing $230 or more.

Individual labor and shop fees

Depending on the shop and service, labor costs can run anywhere from $80-$200 per hour.  Certain garages will charge customers additional shop fees to cover incidental expenses like cleaners, hardware, lubricants, and general supplies. At Midas, for instance, a shop fee of up to $35 may apply on top of any taxes. Some shops might also charge an additional fee to work on hybrid vehicles due to the extra labor involved in removing the trunk access panel to turn off and reconnect the power supply. 

A shop supply fee will be an additional charge (except in NY and CA) of 99% up to $35..00. Each individual work order will identify and apply any applicable shop supply charge.

By Scheduling your appointment online, you agree to allow us to contact you to confirm an appointment time

***Servicing hybrid vehicle usually requires the removal of the trunk access panel for power supply access, shut off, and reconnection

***Hybrid vehicle will result in an additional $15 fee.

Add-on services included in the brake service package

Additional service costs commonly associated with brake replacement include brake fluid flush, rotor resurfacing, extended warranties, and inspections (though many shops will inspect your brakes for free when you come to them for repairs). 

What is the cost of machine rotors?

Some shops will offer to resurface rotors for free when replacing your brake pads, although the actual cost is most likely already built into the labor charge. Others will charge a separate fee of anywhere from $10-$50 per rotor. The time it takes to machine rotors is generally 1-2 hours.

Where can you get rotors resurfaced?

Places that offer rotor resurfacing include:

• Firestone Complete Auto Care

• Meineke

• Midas

• Pep Boys

• Precision Auto Care

• Independent auto mechanics

Places that don’t resurface rotors include:

• Costco Tire Centers

• Christian Brothers Automotive

• Discount Tire

• Jiffy Lube

• Walmart Auto Care Centers

• Mobile Mechanics

How often do you need new brake pads?

Every time you apply the brakes, your brake pads wear down just a bit. Depending on your driving style and the quality and composition of the original brake parts, brake pads can last anywhere from 20,000 to 70,000 miles (though the average time to replacement is about 40,000 miles).

Rotors will usually need to be replaced after between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. To stay on the safe side, it’s recommended that you have your brakes checked for wear every 12,000 miles or at the first sign of unsafe brakes.  Apart from bringing your car to a mechanic to examine the brake system, a few telltale signs that it’s time to replace your brakes include:

• Squeaking or squealing

  from your breaks

• Grinding sound when braking

• Vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal while braking

• Taking longer to stop

• Brake system indicator light comes on

• Your brake pads appear to be thin (usually less than ¼ inch or 6.4 mm)

What are the factors Affecting Brake Pad Replacement Cost?

The cost of replacing brake pads can vary depending on several factors. To help you better understand the expenses associated with brake pad replacement, let's discuss these factors in detail.

Type of Brake Pads

There are various types of brake pads available on the market, including organic, semi-metallic, and ceramic brake pads. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, as well as varying price points.

Organic brake pads, for example, are usually the most affordable option, but they tend to wear out faster and generate more dust and noise compared to semi-metallic and ceramic pads.

Semi-metallic brake pads, on the other hand, offer better performance and durability but can be noisier and produce more dust. Ceramic brake pads have longer life spans and generate less noise and dust compared to organic and semi-metallic pads. However, they also tend to be more expensive. 

It's important to consider your driving habits and needs when choosing the type of brake pads to install. If you do a lot of city driving or have a heavy vehicle, semi-metallic or ceramic pads may be a better choice for you.

Vehicle Make and Model

The make and model of your vehicle play a significant role in determining the cost of brake pad replacement. Luxury and high-performance cars often require specific, more expensive brake pads, while common vehicle models may have more affordable options available.

Additionally, some vehicles may require more labor-intensive processes to replace the brake pads, which can increase the overall cost. For example, some luxury cars have brake pads that are integrated with the brake calipers, which requires more time and effort to replace.

Labor Costs

Labor costs vary depending on the mechanic or automotive shop you choose for the brake pad replacement. Some shops charge a flat fee, while others bill hourly. In general, brake pad replacement labor cost can range from $50 to $200 per axle. 

It's important to choose a reputable mechanic or shop to ensure that the brake pads are installed correctly and safely. Poorly installed brake pads can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous and costly to repair.

Geographic Location

Your geographic location can also impact the cost of brake pad replacement. Labor rates and parts prices may differ based on local market conditions, and additional taxes and fees can vary by region. 

For example, brake pad replacement may be more expensive in urban areas with higher living costs compared to rural areas. Additionally, some states may have higher taxes and fees on automotive repairs, which can add to the overall cost.

Overall, it's important to consider all of these factors when budgeting for brake pad replacement. By understanding the costs associated with this essential maintenance task, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your vehicle is safe and reliable on the road.

What is the Cost for Different Types of Brake Pads?

There are several different types of brake pads available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the average costs for some of the most popular types of brake pads:

• Organic brake pads: $25 to $50 per set

• Semi-metallic brake pads: $30 to $60 per set

• Ceramic brake pads: $50 to $100 per set

Organic brake pads are the most affordable option, but they tend to wear down more quickly than other types of brake pads.

Semi-metallic brake pads are a good middle-of-the-road option, balancing affordability and durability.

Ceramic brake pads are the most expensive option but are also the most durable and provide the best performance. 

Remember that these prices are only for the brake pads and do not include installation costs.

What is the cost of brake pad replacement for Popular Vehicle Models?

The make and model of your vehicle can also impact the cost of brake pad replacement. Here are approximate brake pad replacement costs for some common vehicle models:

• Honda Civic: $150 to $200

• Toyota Camry: $180 to $250

• Ford F-150: $200 to $300

• Chevrolet Silverado: $200 to $300

These prices include both parts and labor. Remember that these are just estimates; the actual cost may vary depending on your location and the specific repair shop you choose.

How do you get the best deal on brake pad replacement?

Unscrupulous automotive repair shops will lure you through the door with low advertised pricing on brake replacement and then up the costs by telling you about a much better service package (the kind you actually need for your vehicle) or recommending unnecessary repairs.

Others will simply refuse to quote you on a price until you’ve already sunk time into bringing your car around for an inspection, hoping that you'll stay for the repair. 

In order to get the best deal on brake repair, consider asking the following questions:

• What’s included in the brake service package?

• What brand and type of brake pad will be used?

• What brand and type of rotor will be used?

• What is the estimated cost for parts and labor?

• What coupons or discounts do you have running?

• What type of warranty on parts and labor do you offer for this particular service?

An honest brake service provider should be able to tell you a lot upfront, including the estimated price for common brake repairs on your vehicle's makes and model.

If they refuse to give you any information over the phone and instead tell you that you will need to bring your car in before they can quote you on anything, you may want to steer clear.

Chances are they are banking on your not wanting the hassle of bringing your car elsewhere, even if they hit you with a hefty estimate. 

Skip the shop altogether.

Let NuBrakes Mobile Brake Repair take care of your brake needs from the comfort of your home.

Ready for a better way to service your brakes? Get an upfront pricing estimate on mobile brake repair in your area. 

NuBrakes offers quality, affordable brake repair completed at your home or office by our team of skilled, ASE-certified technicians.

• See a detailed pricing estimate before scheduling your repair

• Get an honest assessment of what needs to be replaced and what doesn't

• We install only premium brake parts from brands we trust for our own vehicles

• Have the peace of mind that your brakes are backed by our 2-year/24,000-mile warranty

• Appointments available 7 days a week

Get a free, no-obligation quote on brake repair that comes to you>>

If you want transparent, upfront pricing and honest, professional service, try mobile brake replacement performed by NuBrakes’ ASE-certified technicians. Our commitment to convenience, affordability, and the best customer service has earned us an average 4.94/5 star rating from 14,000+ happy customers.

>>For the most accurate pricing on your vehicle, start with a fast, reliable quote from NuBrakes. 

How Much Does a Brake Job Cost?

It can be hard to estimate vehicle repair and replacement costs, but it’s important to regularly maintain and occasionally replace certain car parts. This is especially true for brakes. Ignoring warning signs of brake wear can lead to further damage and costs, in addition to becoming a potential safety hazard. To help you pay attention to potential warning signs and make any necessary repairs, here is a quick overview of brake repair.

Brake System Components & Parts
Factors That Affect Brake Job Frequency
8 Signs Your Brakes Need Attention
Brake Repair vs. Brake Replacement
How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace Brakes?
The Brake Replacement & Repair Process
How to Save Money on Brake Repairs & Replacement
Service Your Brakes with VIP Auto
FAQs About Brake Job & Replacement Costs

Brake System Components & Parts

Generally speaking, all vehicles have the same basic components in their brake systems:

Master Cylinder: Pushes hydraulic fluid from brake fluid reservoir into brake lines

• Drum Brake: A type of vehicle brake in which brake shoes press against the inside of a drum on the wheel; most commonly found in larger vehicles or trailers
• Disc Brake: A type of vehicle brake that uses the friction of pads against a disc  connected to the wheel
• Brake Rotor: Disc inside the brake pads that puts friction on the wheel to stop it from turning
• Brake Shoe: An alternative to brake pads in a drum brake system
• Brake Drum: Brake drum houses the brake that shoe presses outward to cause friction to stop the wheel from turning
• Brake Pad: Enables your vehicle to slow down or stop by squeezing together onto the rotor disk
• Brake Caliper: Provides force that pushes the brake pad into the rotor

• Brake Pedal: A pedal that the driver pushes on to slow down the vehicle
• Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS): Helps prevent the wheel from locking during heavy braking
• Brake Lines: Deliver the hydraulic brake fluid that powers the calipers that press on the brake rotors to slow or stop the car

Factors That Affect Brake Job Frequency

There are a number of factors that can affect how frequently your vehicle requires a new brake job:

• Environment: The environment in which you keep and drive your car will directly impact how quickly your brakes wear. If you live in a particularly snowy/icy climate, your brakes will come into more direct contact with road salt, leading to rust and more frequent brake jobs. Other environmental conditions such dirt, grease, and even rain can also lead to your brakes deteriorating faster and/or requiring replacement and repair.
• Driving habits: How you drive will also impact how often you need brake repair. Frequent or hard braking, hauling heavy loads or trailers, and putting off regular brake repairs can lead to faster brake wear and tear.

• Brake Pad Material: Not all brake pads are created equal. The four most common brake pad types — organic, semi-metallic, low-metallic, and ceramic — have different wear thresholds. Brake pads made of organic materials tend to wear faster, while ceramic tend to last longer, but cost more. Discuss the options with your brake technician to find the best option for your timeline and budget.

8 Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

The best way to ensure your braking system is in good condition is by being a vigilant and knowledgeable car owner. When driving, be on the lookout for the following signs your brakes might need repair:

• Strange noises or high-pitched squeaking when braking
• Taking longer to stop than usual
• Steering wheel shakes in your hands when coming to a stop
• Unusual shimmying, shaking, or shuddering when you apply the brakes
• Uneven pulling to one side

• Squealing or scraping noise when reversing
• Needing to pump the pedal to get better stopping power
• Indicator lights turn on

Brake Repair Job vs. Brake Replacement

It can be tempting, cost-wise, to make minor repairs to your braking system in an attempt to put off a full replacement.  While brake repairs will save you a few dollars in the short term, you will likely run into issues in the long run. Brake replacement is the recommended course of action, as it ensures that the rotors and pads wear evenly and that the old rotor does not prematurely wear the pads.

If cost is a concern, a short-term fix could be to replace just the brake pads if the rotors are in decent shape. Always turn to a trusted brake repair professional to ensure your parts are properly inspected before performing any work.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace Brakes?

The cost of brake repair or replacement will vary depending on the vehicle make and model, part manufacturer, materials, labor, and more. When it comes to repair compared to replacement costs, the difference is negligible, so replacement is recommended to give you warranty protection and ensure a more complete fix.

Generally* speaking, the varying cost for a brake job are as follows:

• Brake Parts: $35–$150 per part
• Brake Repair Labor: $80–$160 per hour
• Total Brake Pad Replacement: $150–$300 per axle
• Total Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement: $400–$600 per axle

*These prices are typical ranges, for more accuracy, be sure to get an estimate, as the quality of brake parts, shop labor pricing, and more can change the price.

The Brake Replacement Process

It’s always a good idea to trust your next brake repair job to a professional automotive technician. They have the expertise and tools to properly diagnose and repair any brake issues you might have and can get you back on the road quickly and safely.

When you do bring your vehicle in for brake repair/replacement, they will first inspect your vehicle to determine what work is needed. Some technicians will even bring you into the garage to show you the worn brake pads and rotors to help you better understand what work is required — this is the mark of a high-quality repair shop. Once the inspection is complete, and you have an agreement in place, brake repair is a fairly straightforward process:

• First, the technician will remove and properly dispose of worn brake pads and/or rotors.
• Second, the technician will install new rotors and brake pads. The engine should be started and the brake pedal pumped a few times until it feels firm.
• Last, the technician will assess completed brake housing to ensure a proper fix before they return the vehicle.

 

How to Save Money on Brake Repairs & Replacement

It may seem like doing your own brake repair or replacement is the most affordable option, but brakes are such an integral part of your vehicle that a DIY brake repair can actually cost you more in the long run.Not to mention the fact that having reliable brakes is of the utmost importance for safety on the road.

So, why shouldn’t you do your own brake repair?

• Brake repair is complicated and should only be handled by professionals
• Brake repair often requires specialized tools Incorrect installation or repair can cause more damage

The good news is that high-quality, professional brake repair doesn’t have to be expensive, and there are steps you can take to save on the cost of your next brake job:

1. Do your research. Shop around and compare prices for parts, labor, and son. It’s also important to know that cheaper isn’t always better, as cheaper parts might mean more frequent repairs or replacement.
2. Look up customer reviews. A quick Google search should give you a comprehensive list of customer reviews for a particular repair shop. Search through these reviews for information on others’ experiences to help you decide if you want to do business with a particular shop.
3. Use your network. Your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors have all likely needed brake replacement at some point, so finding out who they trust for their auto repair is a great idea. You know you already trust their judgment, and they may have recommendations you hadn’t considered yet.
4. Prevention is the best medicine. Proper vehicle maintenance can be a great way to prolong the life of your brakes and reduce your need for brake replacement. For example, brake lines can become corroded quicker if you don’t wash the underside of your vehicle after winter storms, as the chemicals and salt will eat away at the frame and components. By washing your car after storms, you’re protecting your brakes and, ultimately, your investment.

Service Your Brakes with VIP Auto

VIP Tires and Service is the place to turn for all of your brake repairs and replacements. We offer free brake inspections, so you can know the state of your brakes and understand the work required first thing. At VIP, we stock top-quality brake parts at the lowest prices, and all brake work is performed by our team of ASE-Certified technicians in one of our convenient automotive service centers. Call VIP today to schedule your next brake repair job.

 

FAQs About Brake Job & Replacement Costs

 

How long does a brake job take?

• On average, brake repair will take between three and five hours, depending on the state of the parts being replaced and the brake housing. This will, of course, vary depending on the technician and the other repairs on their schedule that day.

Does a brake replacement or repair cost more money?

• Short term, a repair will likely save you a few dollars, but you will ultimately have to perform a brake replacement sooner, which will cost you more in the long run. Since the cost difference is so small, the experts at VIP Auto recommend that you opt for a brake replacement to give you warranty protection.

Do I need to get all of my brakes replaced at once?

• No, but it’s recommended to replace both of the brakes on whichever axle needs them at the same time, but typically they don’t wear out all at once. You should only replace your brakes when they’re worn out, rusted, warped or if necessary.

How often should I get my brake pads replaced?

• Brake pads usually need to be replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. It’s also important to replace your rotors too, but less frequently. Rotors can be replaced every 50,000 to 70,000 miles.