Brake pad replacement cost
The average brake pad replacement costs $335 – $394 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $213 – $215 and labor about $122 – $179. AAA puts pads at $150 to $350 per axle, so shops that run brake specials can come in lower.
Quick answer
$335 – $394parts and labor
Most drivers pay $335 – $394. On popular models the estimate ranges from $246 to $430, depending on the vehicle.
Average brake pad replacement cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $213 – $215 |
| Labor | $122 – $179 |
| Total (national average) | $335 – $394 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$122–$17941%
- Parts$213–$21559%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Ford F-150 | $246 – $303 |
| Toyota Camry | $304 – $368 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $373 – $430 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
The mechanic removes the wheels, slides the caliper off, installs new pads and hardware, checks the rotors and the brake fluid, and test drives the car. Front pads usually wear faster than rear pads because the front brakes do most of the stopping.
Warning signs
- High-pitched squeal from the wear indicator
- Grinding noise when braking
- Longer stopping distances
- Pads look thinner than about 1/8 inch through the wheel
Can you keep driving?
When pads squeal, you have some time, but schedule it soon. Grinding means metal-on-metal contact, which damages rotors and reduces braking.
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
- Replace pads before they grind to avoid buying rotors too.
- Ceramic pads cost more upfront but often last longer and make less dust.
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.
Frequently asked questions
How much does brake pad replacement cost?
About $335 to $394 on average at a repair shop, including $213 to $215 for parts and $122 to $179 for labor, before taxes and fees.
How often should brake pads be replaced?
Typically every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Have them measured at each tire rotation.
Sources
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.