Brake System Inspect Cost Estimate

Inspection can begin or end at any point on the brake system, but typically physical inspection will occur after the technician has read the customer complaint and driven the vehicle if safe and possible. During the test drive the technician will look for things like vibration in the steering wheel and brake pedal when slowing or stopping, squeaks and rattles that change when the brakes are applied, and the feel of the brakes overall. During the physical inspection, any issues noted with the brakes will call attention to specific areas or components, but the inspection will be exactly the same as if the vehicle were in for scheduled maintenance. The brake fluid condition and level is checked, the system is inspected for leaks, drum brakes are cleaned and adjusted if needed, and brake pad and shoe thickness are checked against specifications for the specific vehicle. Some fasteners may be checked for tightness, and the brake line mounting hardware will be checked to ensure it is present and intact. When any issue is found, the technician will have a diagnosis right away, but further inspection may be required.

Depending on the service needed for a vehicle, including brake flushing and bleeding, master cylinder or power brake booster replacement, full brake pad and rotor service, or just cleaning and adjusting rear brake drums, the procedure will vary greatly. One portion of most brake system repairs and services performed is flushing and bleeding the brake system. In most instances, if the brake lines must be opened or disconnected for any reason, the old fluid is flushed out while bleeding the brakes, which provides better protection for the brake system components, and ensures all of the air and contaminants are out of the brake system.

We recommend using the factory approved brake fluid for the vehicle being repaired, and not mixing any types of brake fluid. Also, the brake system should be flushed and inspected for obvious signs of deterioration, and repaired if necessary to prevent further failure. If the Entire brake hydraulic system is replaced, a new type of brake fluid may be used, but it must be at least the minimum standard of when the vehicle was manufactured. Also, each vehicle has a factory specified maintenance interval based upon engineering and research pertaining to the system being serviced. Following the factory scheduled maintenance interval for brake inspections and services can greatly reduce the chances of future brake system failures.