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Wheel Cylinder 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 does a wheel cylinder do?
A wheel cylinder is the main component that pushes the brake shoes into contact with the brake drums when pressure is applied to the brake pedal.
How does a wheel cylinder work and what are the components?
Wheel cylinders are a solid cast single unit. Inside the casting are two pistons, which are hydraulically forced out when the foot brakes are applied. The pistons have a rubber seal preventing the fluid from escaping around the piston and the exposed piston surfaces are protected from dust and debris by a protective rubber boot.
Wheel cylinders are only used on the rear brakes where drums are fitted.
Typical symptoms that require a wheel cylinder to be replaced.
Some of the symptoms of a failing wheel cylinder are:
* When the car pulls to the right or left under braking.
* From an MOT failure or advisory note regarding brake imbalance.
* If your brake pedal begins to gradually get softer (less resistance)
* If the fluid level in your brake fluid reservoir drops.
* If a mechanic advises you of damage to the predictive boot during a brake shoe change.
What happens during a wheel cylinder replacement?
Changing brake pads 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 brakes and establish if there is a problem with one or both of the wheel cylinders.
- If necessary, replace the wheel cylinder.
- Advise if other parts of the braking system need replacing too.
- Bleed the brake system.
- Top up the brake fluid.
- Test drive the car and inspect the brake system again.
- Make adjustments if necessary to the parking brake.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your wheel cylinder to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the wheel cylinder and brake 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 shoe wheel cylinder
Associated repairs
Brake caliper replacement
Brake hose replacement
Brake pipe replacement
Brake fluid change
Brake shoes replacement
Brake drums replacement
Brake pads replacement
Brake discs and pads replacement
Brake shoes replacement
How much does it cost to have a wheel cylinder replaced?
The cost of replacing a wheel cylinder 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 wheel cylinder 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.