Did you just discover that your master cylinder was the reason behind that spongy brake pedal?
Want to know how much replacing a brake master cylinder costs?
Don’t worry!
We can help you with an estimate!
Tag along as we break down the cost of master cylinder replacement and list some warning signs that signal a bad master cylinder. We’ll also share maintenance tips to prolong your master cylinder’s life.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Master Cylinder Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Master Cylinder?
- Signs You Need a Master Cylinder Replacement
- How Long Does the Master Cylinder Last?
- How Can You Prolong the Life of Your Master Cylinder?
How Much Does a Brake Master Cylinder Replacement Cost?
Here’s how much replacing a bad brake master cylinder will cost you:
A. Range
The average brake master cylinder replacement cost ranges between $440 to $552.
This includes:
- Brake master cylinder part cost: $300 to $375
- Labor charges: $140 to $180
B. Factors Affecting Cost
A few factors that can affect the brake master cylinder replacement costs for both disc brakes and drum brakes include:
- Vehicle type: The cost of a new brake master cylinder can vary depending on your car’s type. Some vehicles may need specialized master cylinder parts that are more expensive or hard to find.
- Brand: Buying a brake master cylinder from the original equipment manufacturer or OEM part will cost you roughly 60% more than aftermarket parts.
- Labor charges: The price may also depend on how long it takes to perform the replacement and where you get it done (location).
- Cost of other parts: Sometimes, you may need to replace additional parts like brake booster, brake rotor, brake shoes, brake calipers, and brake pads, which can inflate the overall replacement costs.
Is It Worth Replacing the Master Cylinder?
Yes, it is!
A damaged master cylinder reduces your brakes’ ability to stop the wheels from spinning. When your brake master cylinder fails, it can cause issues with your brake pedal and make your car less safe by taking longer to stop.
Replacing a master cylinder can help restore your vehicle’s braking power and minimize the risk of frontal collisions.
So, schedule a brake service and have your master cylinder checked out.
Signs You Need a Brake Master Cylinder Replacement
Here are the symptoms that indicate a master cylinder failure:
- Low brake fluid level
- Longer braking distance
- Mushy or spongy brake pedal
- The brake pedal sinks to the floor
- Brake fluid contamination
- Grinding noise upon braking
- Jammed brake pedal
- Vehicle veering to one side upon braking
- Check engine light or brake warning light comes on
If you notice any of these issues, get your master cylinder replaced at a car repair shop immediately.
How Long Does the Master Cylinder Last?
Master cylinders are sturdy parts of your car’s braking system designed to last throughout the vehicle’s lifespan or between 70,000 and 110,000 miles. However, master cylinders can wear out earlier too.
Here’s why:
- The rubber seals inside the master cylinder can dry out over time, making them prone to breakage.
- Constant use of the brake system while driving can prematurely damage the master cylinder.
How Can You Prolong the Life of Your Master Cylinder?
You can take these steps to prevent your brake master cylinder from failing earlier than intended:
- Inspect your brake fluid reservoir for brake fluid levels regularly.
- Watch out for signs of brake fluid leak in your braking system.
- Replace the brake fluid regularly to prevent moisture contamination.
Get a Master Cylinder Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
A bad master cylinder can reduce the efficacy of your car’s brake system and make driving unsafe. If you notice any signs of damage, swap your old master cylinder with a new one immediately.
Need help replacing a bad brake master cylinder?
Get in touch with AutoNation Mobile Service today.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance service available seven days a week. Our expert technicians will quickly fix your master cylinder malfunction right from your driveway.
Get a free quote online and book an appointment for hassle-free brake master cylinder replacement and maintenance services.