How Much It Costs to Replace Honda Brake Pads in 2025
Expect to pay about $150–300 per axle at an independent shop and $220–450 per axle at a Honda dealership for pad-only service on most Hondas; if rotors also need replacement, totals typically run $320–700 per axle at independents and $420–820 at dealers. Prices vary by model, region, pad type, and whether additional work (hardware, rotor replacement, or electronic parking-brake reset) is required.
Contents
What You’ll Likely Pay by Honda Model
Because brake sizes and labor time differ across Honda’s lineup, typical per-axle estimates vary. The figures below reflect common U.S. pricing in 2025 for front or rear axles, excluding taxes and fees, and assume quality ceramic pads.
- Civic, Accord, Fit, HR‑V, Insight:
– Pads only: $160–320 (independent), $220–420 (dealer)
– Pads + rotors: $320–620 (independent), $420–720 (dealer) - CR‑V, Odyssey, Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline:
– Pads only: $200–380 (independent), $260–460 (dealer)
– Pads + rotors: $380–700 (independent), $480–820 (dealer) - Performance trims (e.g., Civic Si/Type R) or towing packages: add roughly 10–25% due to larger or specialty components.
These ranges capture typical scenarios; high-cost metro areas, premium pad compounds, or seized/corroded hardware can push prices toward the top end.
Cost Breakdown: Where the Money Goes
A brake job combines parts, labor time, and shop charges. Here’s how a standard pad replacement adds up.
- Pads (per axle): $40–140 for quality ceramic or semi‑metallic; OEM Honda sets often land $75–120.
- Labor: $100–200 per axle (about 0.8–1.5 hours at $100–180/hour typical rates).
- Hardware kit (clips/shims): $10–30; recommended to prevent noise and uneven wear.
- Electronic parking brake (rear) service/reset: $0–50 additional if a scan tool procedure is required.
- Shop fees/taxes: $10–40 in supplies plus local tax.
When quoted, ask for an out‑the‑door price that includes pads, any required hardware, labor, shop fees, and taxes to avoid surprises.
When Rotors Enter the Picture
Rotors must be replaced if they’re below minimum thickness, heat‑checked, severely rust‑scaled, or pulsing from warp/runout. Many modern rotors are thin and aren’t resurfaced; replacement is common. Expect $60–180 per rotor in parts ($120–360 per axle) and $80–150 additional labor per axle, often bundled with the pad job. That’s why pads + rotors commonly total $320–700 at independents and $420–820 at dealers, depending on model and region.
What Affects the Price
Several variables determine whether your quote sits at the low or high end of the range.
- Shop type: Dealers cost more but use Honda OEM parts and procedures; independents are typically 15–30% less.
- Vehicle size/performance: Larger SUVs/trucks and performance models use bigger, costlier components.
- Pad compound: Ceramic (quiet/clean) often costs more than semi‑metallic; premium low‑dust pads add to price.
- Region and labor rate: Urban and coastal markets trend higher due to shop overhead and wages.
- Condition of hardware and calipers: Stuck slide pins, seized bolts, or rusty backing plates add labor/parts.
- Electronic parking brakes: Rear calipers may require scan-tool retraction and calibration.
- Driving profile: Heavy braking, towing, or mountain driving can shorten pad/rotor life and increase frequency of service.
Request a written estimate that reflects your specific vehicle, pad choice, and any known complications (rust, EPB, or rotor replacement) to pin down your true cost.
Signs You Need New Brake Pads
Addressing worn pads early avoids rotor damage and higher bills. Watch for these indicators.
- Pad friction material at or below about 3 mm (visual inspection through the wheel or during service).
- High‑pitched squeal from wear indicators; grinding suggests pads are past the backing plate and may be scoring rotors.
- Longer stopping distances, brake fade, or pulling to one side under braking.
- Steering wheel or pedal pulsation (often rotor runout/warp rather than pads alone).
- Dashboard brake warnings on models with pad sensors or electronic parking brake faults.
- Mileage-based expectations: many Hondas see 30,000–70,000 miles on a set, but driving style is the biggest factor.
If you hear grinding or feel pulsation, plan for rotor inspection—and likely replacement—along with pads.
DIY vs. Shop: What to Consider
Home mechanics can save on labor, but there are important caveats, especially on newer Hondas with electronic parking brakes.
- DIY parts cost: $30–120 for pads; $120–360 for rotors (per axle). Quality hardware and brake cleaner add ~$15–30.
- Tools/time: 1–3 hours with a jack, stands, torque wrench, and a scan tool or procedure for EPB-equipped rears.
- Risks: Incorrect caliper piston retraction (EPB), improper torque, or skipping hardware can cause noise or uneven wear.
- Bedding-in: Follow pad maker’s bed‑in procedure to ensure proper performance and minimize noise.
If you’re unfamiliar with EPB service modes or measuring rotor thickness/runout, a professional shop may be the safer choice.
How to Save Without Sacrificing Safety
You can keep costs reasonable while maintaining OEM‑level performance by being strategic about parts and service.
- Get two to three quotes and ask each shop to specify pad brand/compound and whether hardware and rotor work are included.
- Ask for OEM or OEM‑equivalent ceramic pads; avoid ultra‑cheap pads that can squeal or dust excessively.
- Replace hardware clips and lubricate slide pins at every pad service to prevent noise and uneven wear.
- Measure rotors: replace only if below spec, heat‑checked, or warped; avoid resurfacing thin rotors.
- Look for bundle pricing (pads + rotors) and seasonal coupons; confirm out‑the‑door totals before authorizing work.
- Consider lifetime pad programs only if you plan to keep the car and understand labor is usually not covered.
Clear scope and quality parts typically deliver the best long‑term value and fewer return visits.
Warranty and Maintenance Notes
Honda’s factory warranty does not cover brake pad wear, which is considered a maintenance item. Many OEM and premium aftermarket pads carry limited replacement warranties against defects (not wear). If your Honda uses the Maintenance Minder, brake inspections often align with oil changes; brake fluid replacement is commonly recommended every three years, which can be added during a brake service for $70–130 at many shops.
Summary
For most Hondas in 2025, expect $150–300 per axle at independent shops or $220–450 at dealers for pad-only replacement, and $320–700 (independent) or $420–820 (dealer) when rotors are also replaced. Costs depend on model, pad type, regional labor rates, and the condition of rotors and hardware. Get detailed, out‑the‑door quotes that specify parts and scope, and address issues early to avoid more expensive rotor damage.
How much will a dealership charge to change brake pads?
You can expect a typical brake pad replacement to cost $150 per axle, which would lead to an average total of $300. However, keep in mind that this is an estimate—you can find costs at $100 and more, but it will vary.
How much does a mechanic charge to change brake pads?
Typically replacing both the front and rear brake pads cost anywhere between £250 to more than £500. According to whocanfixmycar, the average cost to replace the front pads is around £127, and another £121 for the rear pads.
How much are new brake pads for a Honda?
The cost of brake pad replacement varies depending on your Honda year, make, and model. The average cost for brake pad replacement is about $150 per axle, but the price can range from $100 to $300 per axle.
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.


