How Much Does It Cost to Replace Drum Brakes?

In the U.S. as of 2025, replacing drum brakes on one rear axle typically costs $250–$600 at an independent shop and $350–$800+ at a dealership, depending on your vehicle, parts quality, and whether drums and wheel cylinders are replaced. Expect parts in the $100–$350 range and 1.5–3.0 hours of labor at $100–$200 per hour; trucks, vans, and rust-belt vehicles can run higher. This article explains what’s included, why prices vary, and how to save without sacrificing safety.

What a Drum Brake Service Usually Includes

Drum brake work can range from a basic shoe replacement to a full refresh. Knowing what’s typically included helps you compare quotes and avoid paying for unnecessary extras.

• Brake shoe replacement on both rear wheels (always serviced per axle)
• Hardware kit (return springs, hold-downs, adjuster parts) to prevent squeaks and uneven wear
• Drum resurfacing or, more commonly today, drum replacement if worn beyond spec or heat-checked
• Wheel cylinder inspection and replacement if leaking or seized
• Cleaning and lubrication of contact points; adjustment of the self-adjuster
• Brake system bleed if wheel cylinders are replaced or lines opened
• Parking brake check and adjustment

A complete job restores braking balance and pedal feel; skipping hardware or adjustment can shorten lifespan and lead to noise or poor performance.

Typical Cost Breakdown (Per Rear Axle)

Here’s how most shops structure the bill. Prices vary by vehicle, region, and part quality (economy vs. OE-equivalent vs. premium).

• Brake shoes: $25–$90
• Drums (pair): $60–$300 (economy compact on the low end; heavier vehicles and premium drums higher)
• Hardware kit: $10–$30
• Wheel cylinders (pair): $20–$120 (only if needed)
• Brake fluid/bleed: $0–$50 (more if doing a full flush)
• Shop supplies and fees: $10–$40
• Labor: 1.5–3.0 hours at $100–$200/hr ($150–$600)

Putting it together: a basic shoe-and-hardware service often lands around $200–$400; a full refresh with drums and wheel cylinders commonly totals $350–$800+, with dealers and high-cost metro areas at the upper end.

Price Examples

The following example ranges reflect typical out-the-door pricing at independent shops for a single rear axle, assuming average parts and no severe rust.

• Economy compact car: $280–$450
• Midsize sedan: $320–$550
• Minivan/crossover SUV: $380–$700
• Half-ton pickup: $420–$800
• Dealership service or European brands: often 15–35% higher than local independents

If the vehicle has heavy corrosion, seized adjusters, or damaged brake lines, expect additional labor and parts that can add $100–$400+.

What Drives the Price Up or Down

Several variables influence your final bill. Understanding them helps explain why quotes can differ across shops.

• Vehicle size and design: larger drums and integrated parking brake mechanisms take more time and pricier parts
• Rust and age: seized hardware and adjusters increase labor; rust-belt vehicles cost more on average
• Parts quality: OE-equivalent parts usually cost more than economy lines but can last longer and perform better
• Drum condition: machining is only possible within spec; out-of-spec or heat-checked drums must be replaced
• Wheel cylinders: leaks or sticking require replacement and a bleed, adding parts and labor
• Labor rate: big-city dealerships often charge double the hourly rate of small-town independents
• Related repairs: leaking axle seals, worn hub bearings, or damaged brake lines can add significant cost

When comparing estimates, ask what’s included and whether the shop will call you before adding parts like drums or cylinders.

Signs Your Drum Brakes Need Replacement

Catch issues early to avoid longer stopping distances and collateral damage to drums and hardware.

• Grinding, scraping, or rhythmic scraping noises from the rear
• Soft or low brake pedal, or the pedal slowly sinking at a stop (possible fluid leak)
• Vehicle pulls to one side under braking or rear wheels locking early
• Parking brake requires excessive lever or pedal travel
• Brake warning light, wetness around backing plates (leaking wheel cylinder)
• Brake pulsation felt through the pedal (out-of-round drum)

If you notice these symptoms, have the brakes inspected promptly; delaying can turn a basic service into a more expensive overhaul.

Time in the Shop

Most drum brake services take 1.5–3.0 labor hours and can be completed same day. Add time if drums must be sourced, wheel cylinders are leaking, or rust complicates disassembly. A short break-in period (light to moderate stops for the first 150–300 miles) helps shoes seat to the drums.

DIY vs. Professional

Doing the job yourself can save money, but drum brakes use strong springs and precise adjustments that can challenge first-timers.

• Typical DIY parts cost: $100–$250 for shoes, drums, and hardware; add $20–$60 for wheel cylinders if needed
• Tools: brake spring pliers, hold-down tool, jack stands, torque wrench, brake cleaner, and potentially a bleeder kit
• Safety: brake dust precautions, correct spring routing, and proper self-adjuster setup are essential
• Practice: take photos before teardown and service both sides; always replace parts in axle pairs
• Bleeding: required if cylinders are replaced; improper bleeding reduces braking performance

If you’re new to drum brakes, consider a professional for the first service or have a knowledgeable helper on hand.

How to Save Without Cutting Corners

Smart choices can trim the bill while preserving braking performance and longevity.

• Request OE-equivalent aftermarket parts and confirm a new hardware kit is included
• Replace drums only if beyond spec or heat-checked; machining is fine within limits
• Bundle services (front pads/rotors, brake fluid flush) to reduce labor overlap
• Get two to three quotes and ask for a line-item breakdown
• Look for coupons or off-peak scheduling at chain stores and independents
• Address leaks or seized adjusters early to avoid collateral damage

A transparent quote that specifies parts brands, drum measurements, and labor hours is your best protection against overpaying.

Warranty and Aftercare

Shops commonly offer 12 months/12,000 miles on labor; many branded shoes carry limited lifetime defects coverage. Keep the invoice and parts list for warranty claims. After service, expect a short bedding period and recheck the parking brake feel after a week if advised by the shop.

Bottom Line

For most vehicles, plan on $250–$600 at an independent shop and $350–$800+ at a dealership to replace rear drum brakes on one axle, with higher costs for heavier vehicles, premium parts, or rust-related complications. Compare detailed quotes, insist on a hardware kit and proper adjustment, and budget extra if drums or wheel cylinders need replacement.

Summary

Drum brake replacement typically involves new shoes, hardware, possible drum and wheel cylinder replacement, and adjustments. Expect $250–$600 at independents or $350–$800+ at dealers per rear axle in 2025, driven by parts quality, labor rates, rust, and vehicle type. Careful quote comparisons and smart part choices can keep costs in check while maintaining safe braking.

Are drum brakes more expensive to replace?

Drums are less expensive than disc brakes, drums are very reliable, drums have more friction material, and drums take less system pressure to achieve braking results.

Can you drive with bad drum brakes?

You shouldn’t drive at all with grinding brakes.
Get it fixed immediately. Every mile risks more damage and reduces safety.

What is the most expensive part of the brakes?

Labor to service brakes can run from $90 to $200 per hour. Brake service generally runs approximately $200 to $500 per axle at a professional center. Calipers are typically the most difficult and expensive aspect of the braking system to service.

How much does labor cost to replace rear drum brakes?

The average cost for a Brake Drum Replacement is between $297 and $360. Labor costs are estimated between $82 and $120 while parts are priced between $215 and $240. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.