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Brake Hose Replacement
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on part availability
Please note, if you experience any untoward characteristics in your braking, book a diagnostic inspection immediately and do not drive the vehicle
What are brake hoses?
A brake hose is a flexible rubber hose that connects the brake calipers to the brake lines that are held in place on the car’s body. The reason for using hoses at this point is due the brake caliper being attached to the wheel and therefore is required to move with suspension and steering requirements.
How do brake hoses work and what are the components?
When the brakes are applied using the foot brake pedal, the hydraulic brake fluid is pressurised by the brake master cylinder and exerts a corresponding force at the brake caliper to push the piston out and therefore causes the brake pads to come into contact with the brake disc.
The brake hoses are made of a special non porous rubber that whilst flexible they do not expand too much when the pressure inside them builds up. At each end of the hose is a metal union which is attached to the end of the rigid brake pipe at the vehicle end and screws into the brake caliper at the wheel end.
Some brake hoses are braided with steel mesh to give further rigidity to the hose and reduced loss of brake pressure from expansion. The braided hoses are usually standard on performance vehicles and it is an upgrade that a lot of enthusiastic motorists have done.
Typical symptoms that require a brake hose to be replaced.
- You have been advised that there is weakness or damage picked up from an MOT or service
- If you have an obvious leak of fluid from the hose or its unions
- Brake hose is brittle or hard.
- Patches of fluid underneath the car.
- Reduced pressure on the brake pedal when braking.
- Brake pedal can be pushed right down to the floor with none of the usual brake pressure.
- Brakes do not work.
What happens during a brake hose replacement?
Changing brake hoses is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the brake system.
- Establish which brake hose needs to be replaced.
- Replace the damaged brake hose.
- Renew the brake fluid.
- Bleed the brake system.
- Inspect the brake system again, if deemed safe, test drive the car.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake hose to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the brake hose and fluid
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Brake hose replacement
Associated repairs
Brake pipe replacement
Brake fluid change
Brake pads replacement
Brake discs and pads replacement
Brake caliper replacement
Wheel cylinder replacement
How much does it cost to have a brake hose replaced?
The cost of a brake hose replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the brake hose doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.