Unless you are living under a rock, brakes have existed since the 1800s. It is probably one of the greatest safety mechanism mankind has ever created. In fact, properly working brake systems can save up to 320 lives per year and prevent at least 40,000 crashes in a year.
In this guide, we’ll be discussing features to look for when replacing your brakes and the cost for its repair and replacement. Scroll down to learn more!
Brake Basics: Parts You Need To Know
Just like any other mechanism in your vehicle, your brake system is also composed of several parts. Knowing each could not only help you identify what to look for when replacing them, but also help you diagnose problems before the costly repairs. When it comes to your break system, you only need to know three parts: pads, rotors, and calipers.
Brake Pads
The break pads are the outermost part of your braking system that comes into contact with the brake rotors. It applies the pressure and friction to control the pace at which your wheels slow down. Brake pads could either be semi-metallic or ceramic, which is one of the popular options for its durability.
Brake Rotors
This is the heart of your braking system. Brake rotors are the discs that actually slows down or stops your vehicle. For this reason, it should be made of high-quality materials to meet safety standards and avoid premature failure.
Brake Calipers
Brake Calipers are crucial for the proper function of your brake system. These parts squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotors in order to slow down or put your vehicle to a complete stop.
When To Replace Your Brakes
Good brakes are essential for a smooth and safe driving experience. However, the more you use it, the more it wears down which leads to replacing them altogether.
Ideally, brake pads should be changed between every 10,000 miles and 20,000 miles. Meanwhile, your brake rotors might need replacement between 50,000 miles and 70,000 miles. However, you could also look for the following signs:
- Noisy Brakes
- Brake Warning Light
- Spongy Brake Pedals
- Slower Brakes
- Vibrations when Braking
If any of these are present, then it might be time to replace your worn out or defective brakes.
How Much Are Car Brakes
If you have sufficient knowledge on how to replace your brakes, that would be better as this could save you a great deal of money. However, if you don’t, then it’s best to hire a mechanic instead.
There is no fixed rate as each mechanic charges hour rates differently. But given that your car has four axles, brake rotor and brake pad repair may cost you $250 to $500 per axle. For brake rotor and pad replacement, labor is around $150 to $200 per axle.
For individual parts, price for brake pad replacements may range from $35 to $150 for all four wheels. Rotor replacement cost between $30 and $75 each. Calipers, on the other hand, remain the most expensive with a price of at least $150 each.
Of course, if you wish for a complete break repair—one that even includes pad, rotor, and caliper replacement—be prepared to pay a grand total of $800 to $1,000 including labor.
Would you like to know more about auto repair and how to’s? Check out our resources at Keep Driving today!
