Imagine this:
You’re cruising downhill, and a car unexpectedly cuts in front of you. You slam the brake pedal, but your front brakes fail to respond.
To avoid such situations, it’s best to replace your front brakes at the first sign of trouble.
Read on to discover front brake replacement costs and the factors influencing them. We’ll also tell you why this service is essential and the warning signs you shouldn’t ignore.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Front Brake Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Front Brakes?
- Signs You Need a Front Brake Replacement
- How Long Do Front Brakes Last?
- How Are Front Brakes Different From Rear Brakes?
- Why Does Front Brake Wear Out Faster Than Rear Brake?
How Much Does a Front Brake Replacement Cost?
Here’s the average cost for a front brake job:
A. Range
Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, a full front brake replacement typically costs between $500 and $1000.
This brake service includes:
- Brake pad replacement:
- New pads: $100 to $300 per axle
- Labor: $80 to $120 per axle
- Brake rotor replacement:
- Rotor parts: $30 to $200 per rotor
- Labor: $150 to $200 per axle
- Brake caliper replacement:
- Parts: $130 per caliper
- Labor: $100 per hour
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The average cost for a front brake job typically depends on the services required and whether you visit a dealership, repair shop, or mechanic.
Some other factors include:
- Specialized brake system: Cars with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) or electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) may require extra diagnostics and specialized tools to calibrate the components. The time needed to disassemble and reassemble such a complex braking system also increases labor costs.
- Brake material and quality: Installing high-quality brake parts for better performance and durability can also inflate prices. While ceramic brake pads, premium-quality rotors, and aluminum brake calipers are expensive, they don’t crack, warp, or rust, making them worth the investment.
- Additional repairs: Brake systems often include parts like clips and springs that need replacing with each service, adding to the cost. Additionally, you may have to pay $70 to $120 for a brake fluid flush and an extra $150 to $190 if your brake line is damaged.
Is It Worth Replacing the Front Brakes?
Yes.
Front brakes ensure efficient stopping, as the vehicle’s weight shifts to the front upon braking. This increased weight allows the front brakes to grip the road better and maintain vehicle stability.
Neglecting front brake maintenance can reduce braking efficiency and increase accident risk.
Signs You Need a Front Brake Replacement
Some red flags that could indicate you need a front brake service are:
- The car takes longer to stop or slow down
- The steering wheel pulsates during deceleration
- Brake pedal vibrates
- Worn brake pads and scratches on rotors
- Screeching or grinding noises from brakes
- Corrosion on brake calipers
- The car veers to one side while braking
- Illuminated brake warning or ABS light
How Long Do Front Brakes Last?
Front brake pads usually last between 25,000 and 65,000 miles in normal driving conditions, while rotors may last for around 30,000 to 70,000 miles.
However, the constant cycle of accelerating and braking in the city or heavy traffic can wear out your front brakes faster, so they may only last between 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Other factors that affect your brakes’ lifespan include:
- Aggressive braking or riding the brakes
- Overloading the vehicle
- Faulty brake system components (worn brake pad and damaged brake caliper or rotor)
How Are Front Brakes Different From Rear Brakes?
Front and rear brakes differ in several aspects, including:
- Size: The front brake pads and rotors are larger so they can handle more friction. Meanwhile, the rear brake pads and rotors are smaller and thinner because they don’t deal with as much braking force.
- Material and design: Front brakes use more aggressive brake pad materials to maximize friction and stopping power, while rear brake pads use less aggressive materials.
- Brake system type: Front brakes usually have disc brakes for better performance and heat management. Rear brakes can have either disc or drum brakes.
Note: Drum brakes are more common in older cars due to their low costs and efficiency in less stressful situations.
Why Does Front Brake Wear Out Faster Than Rear Brake?
Front brakes handle 70% of the vehicle’s braking. When you brake, the vehicle’s center of gravity shifts forward, putting more pressure on the front wheels. This generates excessive heat, often over 500° Fahrenheit.
As a result, the front brake parts experience quicker wear and tear than the rear brakes, which handle less than 40% of the brake load.
Replace Your Front Brakes with AutoNation Mobile Service
Front brakes are built to withstand extreme forces while braking, but frequent use can wear them out. So, when you notice the signs, visit an auto repair shop for brake repair service.
Or you can have experts from AutoNation Mobile Service come to you.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution that can perform a mobile brake repair service right from your driveway.
Contact us for a quote today.