How Much Does Brake Line Repair Cost?
The brake lines are the reinforced rubber tubes that are designed to withstand heat and extreme hydraulic pressure. These lines, in turn, will link the brake caliper to the metal brake lines from the car’s master cylinder. These lines must be flexible in order for the front wheels to turn properly.
If these brake lines were to fail, the brake pedal could feel soft and/or the brake fluid could start to leak, causing your car to lose its braking force on one side and creating a drift to one side whenever you apply the brakes. Brake lines, on average, will fail due to age and are commonly replaced at 100,000 miles.
With any braking problem, it’s never safe to continue to drive, and it’s so important to visit a mechanic immediately to resolve the problem.
How much does it cost to repair a brake line?
The average brake line repair can cost anywhere from $15 to $25 for just the parts to upwards of $300 to $550 at a local mechanic or dealership. The costs, when you use a professional, will highly be dependent upon the car you drive as all cars will have different types of brake lines. For example, metal brake lines, if your car were to have them, can’t be cut and an entire system will need to be replaced; however, if the lines were flexible, then that portion could be taken out and replaced much easier. Metal lines usually only fail when the parts become corroded, usually due to salty road conditions.
On Reddit.com, they said it’s the labor that will cost the most, with most jobs costing about $300 to $400 at a reputable mechanic. A mechanic on that same thread said he would charge about $500 for this job.
At Car Talk, a member said she was charged about $500 for labor and another $136 for parts, bringing the total to $700.
Repair Pal, according to the estimates its visitors received, were in the $118 to $346 range.
Chevrolet Silverado owners on this Plowsite.com message board thread claimed it cost up to $800.
Repairing a brake line overview
When inspecting the brake lines, a mechanic will visually inspect the lines for any cracking or signs of wear and tear. He or she will also apply the brakes to see how the lines react.
If the brake lines are, indeed, the problem, then the brake line will be disconnected and a new one will be connected. Before this, however, the brake system will need to be flushed in order to remove any contaminants inside the brake line. After the flush, the entire system will be bled to make sure the brakes function properly after the new lines are installed.
What are the extra costs?
If the brake lines were failing due to deterioration, then the mechanic may recommend replacing all of the lines since there’s a good chance these lines will follow suit.
Tips to know:
A sign of a bad brake line can include a sharp loss in braking, a pull to one side when applying the brakes, a soft feeling brake pedal and/or a complete loss of braking power. In the case of a complete loss, the brakes won’t “pump out” when the pedal is pushed.
Some cars have had recalls in the past in regards to brake lines. Check with your local dealer to see if your car has any open recalls.
How can I save money?
Many local shops will offer free brake inspections, along with a free estimate on any work that needs to be done. With any car repair, always try your best to get at least three to five quotes before getting the repair.
If you’re good with repairs, consider a brake line kit online that comes with all the parts. These kits can cost as little as $20 to $30 and will just require the labor on your part. Mobil Oil, for example, offers a simple step-by-step guide and so does YourMechanic.com. Again, only consider this route if you’re comfortable with the repair.
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Average Reported Cost: $475
How much did you spend?
- N/A (Brookfield, Wisconsin) paid $450 and said:
Both rear brake lines, at Firestone.
Was it worth it? Yes
- Penny (Indianapolis, Indiana) paid $500 and said:
500.00
Was it worth it? Yes
