Brake pad replacement cost
Most shops charge $120–$240 in labor, plus $35–$120 for the brake pads (one axle).
Updated November 2026
Where good SwaxFix bids tend to land: the low end, because shops compete for the job.
See what shops near you will actually charge.
Free to post. Shops bid blind: they see your car, never you. Buy the part yourself, shops bid on labor only. Already have a quote? Check if it’s fair.What the job involves
Per axle: the shop removes the wheels and calipers, swaps the worn pads for new ones, cleans and lubricates the slide pins and checks the rotors. Prices here are for one axle (front or rear).
Signs you need it
- High-pitched squeal when braking (the wear indicator)
- Grinding noise, which means metal on metal
- Longer stopping distance or a soft pedal
- Pads under 3 mm when you look through the wheel
What changes the price
- Front pads usually wear first and cost a little more
- Rear electronic parking brakes need a scan tool to retract
- If the rotors are scored, add rotors (see brake pads and rotors)
Shop or do it yourself?
Doable with basic tools and jack stands. Brakes are safety-critical, so only DIY if you are confident.
Questions drivers ask
How much does brake pad replacement cost?
At a typical shop, labor runs $120 to $240 (about 1 hr to 1.5 hr of work), and the brake pads (one axle) costs about $35 to $120. That puts most jobs between $155 and $360 total. With SwaxFix you can buy the part yourself and have local shops bid on the labor only.
How much do brake pads cost per wheel?
Pads are sold and installed per axle (two wheels). Expect roughly $160 to $360 per axle at a shop including pads, or less if you supply the pads.
Do I need new rotors too?
Not always. If the rotors are smooth and above minimum thickness, the shop can reuse them. Deep grooves, warping or a grinding history usually means new rotors.
How long do brake pads last?
Typically 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on how and where you drive.
Find a shop
Want to compare shops first? Browse brake repair near me, or post your job and let them come to you.