How Much Are New Brake Pads on a Honda Civic?
In the U.S. as of 2025, expect to pay about $120–$300 per axle for pads-only installed at an independent shop, or $230–$450 per axle at a Honda dealer. Parts-only (DIY) brake pads typically cost $30–$160 per axle depending on brand and material. If rotors are replaced along with pads—as many shops recommend—budgets usually rise to $280–$550 per axle at independents and $420–$800 at dealers. The exact price varies by model year, pad type, local labor rates, and whether the rotors or hardware also need service.
Contents
What Determines the Price
Brake service pricing for a Honda Civic hinges on several variables beyond the pads themselves. Understanding these factors helps explain why quotes can differ widely from shop to shop and city to city.
- Model year and trim: Newer Civics (especially 2016–present) use thinner rotors that are often replaced rather than resurfaced; many 2016+ trims also have an electronic parking brake on the rear axle, adding time and tooling.
- Pad material and brand: Economy organic/semi-metallic pads are cheaper; ceramic and OEM pads cost more but may offer quieter braking and less dust.
- Front vs. rear axle: Front pads typically wear faster and can be slightly more expensive; rear pads on models with electronic parking brake can add labor.
- Labor rates: Independent shops usually charge less than dealers; urban and coastal regions tend to have higher labor rates than rural areas.
- Rotors and hardware: Replacing rotors, shims, and clips increases parts cost; many shops recommend replacing rotors with each pad job on late-model cars.
- Taxes, shop fees, and warranties: Environmental fees, shop supplies, and extended warranties can add to the bottom line.
Taken together, these elements explain why a pads-only quote can land near $150 per axle in one situation and exceed $400 per axle in another when premium parts or extra procedures are included.
Typical Price Breakdowns
Parts-only (DIY) ranges
If you’re buying parts yourself, prices vary by quality, brand, and whether you add hardware and supplies.
- Economy pads (organic/semi-metallic): $25–$60 per axle
- Mid-grade ceramic aftermarket: $45–$100 per axle
- OEM Honda pads: $80–$160 per axle
- Performance pads: $120–$250 per axle
- Hardware kit (shims/clips): $8–$25 per axle; brake cleaner/grease: $10–$20
DIY can be cost-effective if you have the tools and experience; for 2016+ rear brakes with electronic parking brake, ensure you can place the system in service mode before compressing pistons.
Professional installation: pads only
These ranges assume normal wear with reusable rotors and standard hardware.
- Independent shop: $120–$300 per axle (parts + labor)
- Honda dealer: $230–$450 per axle (parts + labor)
- Add $20–$60 per axle for premium/OEM pads over basic aftermarket options
Shops may advise resurfacing or replacing rotors if they’re below spec or warped; this moves you into pads-plus-rotors pricing.
Professional installation: pads plus rotors per axle
Most late-model Civics benefit from replacing rotors with pads to avoid pulsation and meet thickness specs.
- Independent shop: $280–$550 per axle
- Honda dealer: $420–$800 per axle
- Typical rotor prices: $40–$120 each aftermarket; $120–$220 each OEM
Higher figures apply when using OEM rotors and pads, in higher-cost cities, or when additional hardware is required.
Dealer vs. Independent vs. Mobile
Where you go influences both price and what’s included.
- Dealers: Higher labor rates but genuine Honda parts and model-specific procedures; good for newer Civics and warranty continuity.
- Independent shops: Usually the best value; can install quality aftermarket or OEM parts on request.
- Mobile mechanics: Competitive pricing and convenience; best for pads-only jobs on vehicles without complex rear EPB procedures.
For any option, ask for an itemized estimate with part brands and warranties spelled out.
Signs Your Civic Needs New Brake Pads
Watch for these common indicators to time your service and avoid rotor damage.
- Squealing or chirping when braking (wear indicators contacting the rotor)
- Grinding sounds (pad material likely gone—service immediately)
- Longer stopping distances or a soft pedal
- Vibration or pulsation under braking (often rotors)
- Dashboard brake warning, or visible pad thickness under 3 mm
Addressing pads early can keep rotor replacement optional and lower total cost.
How Long Do Civic Brake Pads Last?
Real-world life ranges from roughly 25,000–60,000 miles, depending on driving style, traffic, terrain, and pad material. City stop‑and‑go and aggressive braking wear pads faster; highway driving is easier on them.
Tips to Save Money and Get a Fair Quote
Smart comparison and preparation can shave meaningful dollars off the bill while maintaining safety and performance.
- Get two to three itemized quotes per axle, specifying pad brand/material and whether rotors are being replaced.
- Ask shops to measure rotor thickness and runout; replace rotors only if out of spec or heat‑checked.
- Use coupons or seasonal brake specials; verify what’s included (hardware, lubrication, road test).
- For 2016+ rear brakes with electronic parking brake, confirm the shop has the proper service-mode procedure.
- Consider mid-grade ceramic pads: good balance of price, dust, and noise for daily Civics.
Clarity on parts quality and scope prevents upsells and ensures you’re comparing like-for-like bids.
When Replacement May Cost More
Plan for potential add-ons if your brakes are beyond normal wear.
- Scored or below-minimum rotors requiring replacement
- Seized slide pins or sticking calipers (extra labor or caliper replacement)
- Electronic parking brake service on rear axle (adds 0.2–0.5 hr)
- Brake fluid flush (often recommended every 3 years/36,000 miles): $80–$150
These issues aren’t guaranteed, but they’re common enough that a thorough inspection is worthwhile before authorizing work.
Bottom Line
For a Honda Civic in 2025, budget roughly $120–$300 per axle for pads-only at an independent shop or $230–$450 at a dealer; parts-only pads are $30–$160 per axle. If you replace rotors too, expect $280–$550 per axle at independents and $420–$800 at dealers. Prices vary with pad type, labor rates, and the condition of your rotors and hardware. Getting itemized quotes and confirming what’s included will help you land a fair price.
How much does it cost to replace brake pads at a Honda dealership?
How much does Honda charge to replace brakes? On average Honda dealerships charge 910-$1050 to replace brakes this includes a complete Honda rotor and brake pad replacement. At Brakes To Go, on average we only charge 750-$880 plus we come to you to replace your Honda brakes.
How much are brake pads for a Honda Civic?
If you’re in search of Honda Civic Brake Pads and Shoes aftermarket or OEM parts, consider your search over! Advance Auto Parts carries 216 Brake Pads and Shoes from top brands with prices ranging from $15.00 to $129.23.
How much does it cost to replace brake pads on a Honda Civic?
between $241 and $315
The average cost for a Honda Civic Brake Pad Replacement is between $241 and $315. Labor costs are estimated between $112 and $164 while parts are priced between $130 and $151. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
How much does it cost to replace all 4 brake pads?
Replacing all four brake pads typically costs between $230 and $600 for parts and labor, but the price can vary significantly based on your vehicle’s make and model, the quality of parts, and the mechanic’s labor rates. For a standard car, you can expect to pay around $150 per axle, totaling about $300 for all four wheels, but costs can be higher or lower depending on your specific situation.
Factors influencing the cost
- Brake pad material: Quality and brand of brake pads affect their price and durability.
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury vehicles or those with larger brakes (like full-size SUVs and trucks) will cost more for parts and labor.
- Mechanic’s labor rate: Hourly rates vary widely between dealerships and independent shops, with dealers often charging more.
- Additional work needed: If your brake rotors are worn, they may also need to be replaced or resurfaced, adding to the total cost.
- DIY vs. Professional: Replacing the pads yourself can save you hundreds in labor costs, but requires the right tools and knowledge to perform the job safely.
How to get an accurate estimate
- Provide your vehicle’s details: When getting a quote, always give the shop your car’s make, model, and year to get the most accurate estimate.
- Inquire about bundled services: Ask if the quote includes other necessary work, like resurfacing or replacing the rotors, to avoid surprise charges.
- Compare quotes: Obtain estimates from a few different shops (independent mechanics, dealerships, and mobile repair services) to find the best price for your area.