Brake caliper replacement cost

The average brake caliper replacement costs $898 – $968 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $749 and labor about $150 – $219. Remanufactured calipers are common and often cost much less than the new parts used in this average.

Average brake caliper replacement cost

Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.

Cost by vehicle

RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.

What the job involves

The caliper holds the pads and uses hydraulic pressure to clamp them on the rotor. A sticking or leaking caliper is replaced, and the brake system is bled to remove air. Calipers are often replaced in pairs on the same axle.

Warning signs

• Car pulls to one side when braking or driving
• One wheel much hotter or dustier than the others
• Brake fluid leaking near a wheel
• Uneven pad wear
• Burning smell after driving

Can you keep driving?

A sticking caliper can overheat the brakes and a leaking one can cause brake failure. Have it checked right away.

What changes the price

• Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
• Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
• The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
• Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.

How to pay less

• Ask for remanufactured calipers with a warranty; they are widely available and cheaper.
• Replace only the failed side unless the other is also worn or leaking.

How to get a fair estimate

• Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
• Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
• Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
• Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
• Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.

Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.