How Much Does It Cost to Replace or Repair Brake Lines?

Having a car that starts up when you turn the key is important, but it's even more critical to know that your vehicle can stop on command. Brake failures contribute to more than one in five traffic accidents, so keeping your brake system functioning well is an important safety issue—and brake lines play a critical role.

In general, replacing a brake line costs around $150 to $300 per hose. Your vehicle has four hoses, although they don't always need to be replaced at the same time. Learn more about brake line replacement costs, brake line repair kits and when you might need new brake lines.

When you press your brake pedal, the brake pads press on the rotors near your wheel, slowing the car down. But how does the message get from the pedal to the wheels? Via the brake lines, sometimes called brake hoses.

Modern brakes use a hydraulic system that allows your small effort—pressing the brake pedal—to be amplified into a force large enough to stop your vehicle. The brake fluid for the hydraulic system moves through the brake lines, transferring pressure onto the pads and rotors. There's a brake hose for each of your vehicle's four wheels. In short, brake fluid flowing through the break lines provides the power to stop your car.

Learn more: How your car's braking system works

Brake lines need to stand up to a lot of pressure and heat, while also being flexible enough to turn with the front wheels. Brake lines are made from materials that can withstand that pressure. There are two main options: rubber and stainless steel.

In most cases, the cost to replace brake lines is between $150 and $300 per brake line, including installation. If you replace all four brake lines, costs can quickly add up. Here's a brake line cost breakdown by type of vehicle.

You'll notice there's a big range. That's because there are lots of factors that impact the cost of brake lines, including:

• Type of braking system. High-performance systems with metal or Kevlar hoses are more expensive.
• Vehicle make and model. Some vehicles have particularly long brake lines, or brake hoses that are hard to access. This can increase the cost of parts or labor.
• DIY vs. professional installation. Labor costs for a new brake line can range from $60 to $190 per line, so doing the job yourself can save you money. However, since brakes are so critical to safety, only experienced DIYers who are certain they can do the job well should attempt to replace brake lines.
• Number of brake lines. If one line is leaking, you could opt to replace just that one, but chances are the other lines will need replacing soon, too. Replacing all at the same time could save on labor costs in the long run.

There's no safe way to repair brake lines. Damaged hoses need to be replaced, not patched or repaired. Low-cost products like brake tape ($11) or brake line repair kits ($40) may work in the very short term to get you to the mechanic, but they're not considered safe to use long-term. If you're looking to reduce costs, you can replace just the damaged brake line rather than all four brake lines.

Brake hoses usually last for about 100,000 miles. When you have your car serviced, ask your mechanic to check on the condition of your brake lines. Over time, metal brake lines can rust, while rubber lines crack and degrade, just like tires do. You should also have your brake lines examined after a car accident, since an impact can damage brake hoses.

Brake line troubles can start slowly, with a minor leak, or come on suddenly. If you need a brake line replacement, you might notice:

• A reduction in braking power. This means you'll have less responsiveness when you touch the brake pedal, and it will take your vehicle a longer time and distance to stop. In severe cases, you can have a total loss of braking power.
• Your vehicle pulls to one side when braking. This happens if one hose has failed but the others are working well.
• The brake pedal feels soft, loose or spongy. If you pump the brakes, the pedal will feel more deflated each time, rather than firmer with each pump.
• Noises while braking, especially a squealing from the wheels.
• Brake fluid under the car from a leak.
• A brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard.

Learn more: Dashboard warning lights and what they all mean

Replacing your brake lines—especially all four—can be expensive. These tips could save you money:

• Shop around. Labor and parts costs for brake line replacement can vary widely, so get three quotes before choosing a mechanic.
• Examine brake lines regularly. Ask your mechanic to check your brake lines when your car is being serviced or having regular maintenance done. If you detect a problem early—like a rusting brake line—you'll have more time to shop around for prices. You'll also avoid the need for a tow if you can replace the lines before they fail. Plus, it's safer.
• Replace one at a time. If funds are tight, consider replacing just the problematic brake line. But keep in mind that if one line is going, the others—which have been exposed to the same rust, road conditions and temperatures—are likely not far behind.
• Consider DIY. Replacing brake lines yourself can save you money, but only try this if you're confident in your DIY abilities. You'll need to replace the line and then bleed the brakes to make sure they're safe to drive.

With promotional financing and plenty of partner offers, the Synchrony Car Care™ credit card can help you pay for brake line replacement and other unexpected repair costs. You can also use it to pay for routine maintenance like oil changes. Learn more about the Synchrony Car Care™ credit card and apply today.

Replacing your brake lines when they need it can help keep you safe on the road. Look for signs like longer braking time, reduced braking power or the car pulling to one side when you brake. If you see those, visit a mechanic soon.

READ MORE: Common Car Problems: DIY or Call a Pro?