How Much Are Audi S4 Brakes?

A full brake job on an Audi S4 typically ranges from about $450 to $1,600 per axle in the U.S., depending on model year, whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts, and if rotors are replaced along with pads. Performance options, dealer labor rates, and regional price differences can push the total higher, while independent shops and DIY can significantly reduce the bill.

Why Audi S4 Brake Costs Vary So Widely

The question “How much are Audi S4 brakes?” sounds straightforward, but the answer depends on what exactly is being replaced (pads only, pads plus rotors, or a full system upgrade), where the work is done, and which generation of S4 you drive. Performance-oriented components, larger rotors, and optional factory sport packages all influence the final price.

Typical Cost Ranges by Work Type

To understand the true cost of Audi S4 brakes, it’s helpful to break down common service scenarios: basic pad replacement, pad-and-rotor replacement, and more performance-focused upgrades. The figures below reflect typical U.S. parts-and-labor pricing as of late 2024.

1. Brake Pad Replacement Only

When rotors are still within spec and not badly scored, some owners replace only the pads. This is the least expensive way to refresh braking performance, though many shops now recommend replacing rotors with pads, especially on European performance cars like the S4.

• Front pads only (per axle): About $200–$450 installed at an independent shop; $300–$550 at a dealer.
• Rear pads only (per axle): About $180–$400 at an independent shop; $280–$500 at a dealer.
• OEM-equivalent pad sets (parts only): Roughly $80–$220 per axle, depending on brand and generation.
• Performance pad sets (Hawk, EBC, etc.): About $150–$300 per axle for street/track compounds.
• Labor time: Typically 1–1.5 hours per axle, higher at dealers or in high-cost regions.

Pad-only jobs are the most budget-friendly option, but on many S4s the cost difference to add rotors is not huge compared to the benefits of fresh braking surfaces and reduced risk of pulsation or noise.

2. Pads and Rotors (Most Common “Full Brake Job”)

Most S4 owners will encounter pad-and-rotor replacement as the standard “brake job,” especially after high mileage or spirited driving. This approach ensures consistent braking feel, reduces noise and vibration, and is generally recommended for performance sedans.

• Front pads + rotors (per axle): About $450–$900 at an independent shop; $650–$1,100+ at a dealer.
• Rear pads + rotors (per axle): About $400–$800 at an independent shop; $600–$1,000 at a dealer.
• OEM front rotors (parts only): Roughly $140–$300 each, depending on B8, B9, etc., and rotor size.
• Aftermarket front rotors (quality brands): About $90–$230 each for plain or slotted rotors.
• Rear rotors (parts only): Roughly $70–$200 each, OEM or equivalent.
• Complete axle kits (pads + rotors + hardware): Around $260–$600 per axle for reputable aftermarket kits; more for high-end performance brands.

For most owners, these pad-and-rotor figures represent the realistic, all-in cost of keeping an Audi S4 braking system in top street condition, particularly when balancing performance, noise, and longevity.

3. Performance and Big-Brake Upgrades

Some S4 drivers upgrade beyond stock, opting for larger rotors, multi-piece hardware, or full big-brake kits aimed at track use or heavy spirited driving. These setups deliver higher fade resistance and improved feel but come with premium pricing.

• Performance pad-and-rotor packages (street/track): About $500–$1,000 per axle for parts alone.
• Two-piece or lightweight rotors: Often $350–$800+ per rotor for reputable performance brands.
• Big brake kits (front axle): Typically $2,000–$5,000+ for calipers, rotors, pads, lines, and hardware.
• Installation labor for big brake kits: Around 3–5 hours, translating to $400–$1,000 depending on rates.
• Track-focused pads and fluid: Pads roughly $250–$400 per axle; high-temp fluid $20–$60 per bottle.

These upgrades push S4 brake costs far beyond standard service figures, but for owners who track their cars or demand maximum stopping power, the performance benefits can justify the investment.

How Generation and Trim Affect Pricing

The cost of Audi S4 brakes is also influenced by model year, platform, and whether the car has optional performance or “sport” packages that change rotor size and caliper configuration.

Older S4s (B5/B6/B7, Late 1990s–Mid-2000s)

Earlier S4 generations typically use simpler hardware that can be less expensive to maintain, though availability of genuine parts is slowly shrinking.

• Parts availability: Good for aftermarket; OEM may be pricier or special-order on some items.
• Costs: Often slightly lower than modern S4s; full axle pad-and-rotor jobs can land in the $400–$750 range at independent shops.
• Upgrades: Popular to retrofit larger rotors or upgraded calipers from later Audi models or aftermarket kits.
• Considerations: Rusted hardware and aging components can add labor time and cost.

Drivers of older S4s may enjoy somewhat cheaper brake parts, but age-related issues and restoration work can eat into those savings over time.

Modern S4s (B8/B8.5/B9, 2010s–Present)

Newer S4s feature more sophisticated braking systems, larger factory rotors, and often electronic parking brakes, all of which can impact both parts and labor pricing.

• Larger factory rotors: Increased material size lifts rotor prices relative to older generations.
• Electronic parking brake (EPB): Requires diagnostic tools or proper procedure during rear pad changes, raising labor complexity.
• Typical dealer quotes: Commonly $700–$1,100 per axle for pads and rotors on modern S4s.
• Independent shop savings: Often 20–35% cheaper than dealer while using OEM or quality aftermarket parts.

For current-generation S4s, service costs reflect both the performance capability of the car and the higher technical demands placed on technicians and equipment.

Breaking Down the Cost: Parts vs. Labor

Understanding how the bill is split between parts and labor helps owners figure out where savings are possible and where it’s wiser not to cut corners.

Parts: Pads, Rotors, and Hardware

Braking components vary significantly in price depending on whether they are genuine Audi, OEM-equivalent, or high-performance aftermarket.

• Pads: About $80–$220 per axle for OEM-equivalent; $150–$300+ for performance compounds.
• Rotors: Roughly $90–$300 each, with OEM usually at the high end and aftermarket at the midrange.
• Hardware kits (clips, pins, sensors): Often $20–$70 per axle; some pad sets include them.
• Wear sensors: About $10–$40 each where fitted; some S4s use electronic pad wear sensors.
• Brake fluid: Around $10–$30 for standard DOT 4; $20–$60+ for high-performance formulations.

Choosing reputable aftermarket brands can trim 20–40% from parts costs versus dealer-supplied OEM, while still maintaining factory-level performance for typical street use.

Labor: Shop Rates and Time

Labor costs are driven by hourly rates and the time required to complete the job properly, including EPB procedures, bleeding, and test drives.

• Hourly rates: About $90–$180 per hour at independent European specialists; $150–$250+ at Audi dealers in major metro areas.
• Standard pad-and-rotor job per axle: 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on generation and condition.
• Brake fluid flush: Typically 0.8–1.5 hours billed time.
• Complications: Rust, seized bolts, or damaged hardware can add 0.5–1.0+ hours.
• EPB-equipped rears: Extra time for electronic retraction and reset procedures.

While labor can’t be eliminated, choosing a competent independent specialist rather than always defaulting to the dealer is often where Audi S4 owners realize the largest brake-service savings.

Dealer vs. Independent vs. DIY

Where you get your Audi S4 brakes done can dramatically shape the final invoice, from premium dealer servicing to DIY projects in the garage.

Dealer Service

Official Audi dealers often command the highest rates, but they also provide factory parts, software tools, and brand-specific expertise.

• Pros: Genuine Audi parts, software access for EPB and diagnostics, warranty familiarity, strong documentation.
• Cons: Highest hourly labor rates; limited flexibility on aftermarket parts; quotes often at the upper end of ranges.
• Typical bill: $700–$1,100+ per axle for pad-and-rotor jobs on recent S4 models.
• Best for: Under-warranty or CPO cars, owners prioritizing service history and OEM parts.

Dealers provide predictable quality and documentation but at a price that many out-of-warranty S4 owners eventually choose to avoid.

Independent European Specialist

Independent shops focused on German and European vehicles often strike a balance between expertise and cost, making them a popular choice among S4 owners.

• Pros: Lower hourly rates than dealers, familiarity with Audi-specific quirks, flexibility on parts (OEM or high-quality aftermarket).
• Cons: Quality varies by shop; need to verify experience with S/RS models and EPB systems.
• Typical savings: Around 20–35% less than dealer for equivalent work.
• Best for: Out-of-warranty S4s, performance upgrades, recurring maintenance.

For most owners, an experienced independent European specialist offers the best combination of cost, quality, and technical competence on S4 brake work.

DIY: Doing It Yourself

Mechanically inclined owners sometimes tackle S4 brakes at home, especially older generations, to save on labor and customize component choices.

• Parts-only cost for full axle (pads + rotors): Roughly $260–$600, depending on quality and brand.
• Tools required: Jack and stands, metric sockets, torque wrench, potentially EPB service tool or software on newer S4s.
• Challenges: Electronic parking brake on newer models, seized bolts in rust-prone regions, proper bleeding and bedding-in.
• Risks: Safety-critical system; improper torque, contamination, or EPB errors can lead to serious issues.

DIY can cut the total cost of an S4 brake job nearly in half, but it requires solid mechanical understanding, the right tools, and strict attention to safety and manufacturer procedures.

When and How Often to Replace Audi S4 Brakes

The timing and frequency of brake replacement play a major role in budgeting, with driving style and environment exerting the most influence on wear rates.

Typical Lifespan of Pads and Rotors

There is no single mileage at which Audi S4 brakes must be replaced, but industry and owner experiences provide useful guidelines.

• Brake pads: Often last 25,000–45,000 miles for spirited daily driving; more conservative drivers may see 50,000+ miles.
• Rotors: Frequently replaced every 1–2 pad sets; 40,000–70,000 miles is common depending on driving conditions.
• Hard use (track or aggressive street): Pads may last under 20,000 miles; rotors may need more frequent changes.
• Rear vs. front wear: Fronts usually wear faster, but stability and ABS systems can sometimes cause rears to wear more than expected.

While mileage is a helpful benchmark, visual inspections, thickness measurements, and squeal or vibration symptoms are more reliable signals for S4 brake replacement timing.

Signs Your S4 Brakes Need Attention

Waiting until brakes fail is dangerous and costly. Recognizing early signs of wear or damage can keep both repair bills and safety risks in check.

• Squealing or grinding: High-pitched squeal suggests wear indicators; grinding usually means pads are worn through to metal.
• Vibration or pulsation: Often felt through the pedal or steering wheel; suggests warped or unevenly worn rotors.
• Longer stopping distances: Requires more pedal travel to stop; can be pads, fluid, or other system issues.
• Dashboard warning lights: Brake pad wear or EPB warnings on newer S4s indicate immediate inspection is needed.
• Visual inspection: Thin pad material, deep grooves on rotors, or discoloration from heat are red flags.

Acting at the first signs of trouble often limits damage to pads and rotors, avoids caliper or ABS complications, and keeps costs in the “routine maintenance” zone.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your Audi S4

Because online ranges can be broad, S4 owners benefit from targeted, detailed quotes that take into account their specific car and repair needs.

Information to Provide the Shop

Arriving prepared with key details helps service advisors and technicians build accurate estimates instead of ballpark figures.

• Model year and generation: For example, 2013 S4 (B8.5) or 2019 S4 (B9).
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Ensures the correct rotor size, caliper type, and parts selection.
• Current symptoms: Noise, vibration, dashboard lights, or recent track use.
• Service history: When brakes were last done and by whom, including any previous upgrades.
• Parts preference: OEM only, OEM-equivalent, or performance aftermarket (and any specific brands).

With these details, shops can move from general estimates to clear, itemized quotes that better reflect real-world costs for that specific S4.

Reading and Comparing Quotes

Not all estimates are created equal. Understanding how to interpret an S4 brake quote can prevent surprise add-ons and disappointing results.

• Check line items: Pads, rotors, wear sensors, hardware, fluid, and labor should be listed separately.
• Verify parts brands: Ask whether parts are Audi OEM, OEM-equivalent, or aftermarket; research brands if unfamiliar.
• Confirm scope: Clarify if both axles are included and whether a test drive and post-service inspection are part of the job.
• Ask about warranties: Parts and labor warranties can differ markedly between shops and parts choices.
• Compare apples to apples: A cheaper quote using low-grade components may cost more in the long run if performance or life suffers.

Transparent, itemized quotes allow S4 owners to focus on value rather than just headline price, and to choose a shop based on both cost and confidence.

Summary

For an Audi S4, a typical full brake job—pads and rotors on one axle—runs in the range of roughly $450–$900 at an independent European specialist and $650–$1,100 or more at an Audi dealer, with performance upgrades substantially higher. Pad-only services are cheaper but less common on modern S4s, while big-brake or track-focused setups can easily climb into the thousands.

Final pricing hinges on model generation, choice of OEM versus aftermarket components, shop type, and labor rates. Independent specialists often provide the best balance of expertise and cost, while DIY can halve the bill for owners with the necessary tools and skills. Monitoring wear signs, replacing components before damage spreads, and requesting detailed, itemized quotes are the most effective ways to control how much Audi S4 brakes ultimately cost.

How much does it cost to put brakes on an Audi?

The average cost for an Audi A4 Brake Pad Replacement is between $367 and $460. Labor costs are estimated between $110 and $161 while parts are priced between $257 and $299.

Can I drive with 80% worn brake pads?

Worn brakes are not only annoying but also dangerous. They put you and other road users at risk of an accident as it will take longer to stop after braking. While it is possible to drive with worn brakes, it can also damage crucial components, such as the callipers, discs and pads.

Does the Audi S4 hold value?

A 2022 Audi S4 has depreciated $18,040 or 35% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $33,081 and trade-in value of $29,850. The 2022 Audi S4 is in the 25-75% percentile for depreciation among all 2022 Sedans.

How much does an Audi S4 cost?

$56,195
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