How Much Does Replacing a Handbrake Cost?
On average, our research found that the cost of replacing a handbrake cable in the UK will set you back an average of £105. However, prices can vary based on several factors, so you should expect to pay anywhere between £75 and £150 for this job. The cost of replacing more handbrake parts, such as the handbrake shoes or caliper, will increase the price. In most cases, if you are having issues with your handbrake, the cable will be the main part to replace.
Can I Replace a Handbrake By Myself?
It is not usually recommended to replace a handbrake on your own unless you have training and experience. In most cases, taking your car to a qualified mechanic is the best option. To replace the handbrake cable, you will need a jack, a wheel wrench, hammer, clippers, pliers, and cable ties. The handbrake cable is not an easy part to access and replace as you will need to jack up the car and remove the rear wheels first.
What Factors Might Affect the Handbrake Replacement Price?
The cost of replacing a handbrake will vary depending on different factors. The make and model of your car can impact the price, along with where you are located in the country, and who you choose to carry out the work. The mechanic may also discover other issues or damaged, faulty, or defective parts during the replacement that will need to be repaired or replaced, which could increase the final price.
How Much Do Handbrake Replacement Parts Cost?
The cost of replacement parts for your handbrake will depend on the specific parts that need to be replaced. At Eurocarparts, the average cost of a new handbrake cable is around £20-£30. The cost of a new handbrake disc could set you back between £40-£100.
What are Labour Costs for Replacing a Handbrake?
Handbrake replacement and repair costs can vary a lot depending on your location, the size of the garage or dealership that carries out the repair, the type of service offered, and the demand levels locally. We have carried out research to get a better idea of the average cost of a handbrake replacement to keep things simple and easy for our customers. We found that for a handbrake cable replacement, you can expect to spend between £70-£150 depending on the make and model of your car. Expect to pay more if you own a luxury car or sports car. You will also pay more if the discs or other components also need replacing.
How Long Does it Take to Repair a Handbrake?
The process of repairing or replacing a handbrake can vary a lot based on which components need to be replaced or repaired, the experience of the mechanic who is carrying out the job, and the make and model of your car. Replacing a brake can be a job that takes an experienced mechanic anywhere up to an hour but be prepared for it to take longer if there are a lot of components that require work. Bear in mind that engines can vary a lot between different car makes and models, which will have an impact on how long this job takes to carry out.
Can I Drive if My Handbrake is Broken or Faulty?
While the handbrake does not affect the driving of the car, it is not recommended to drive when this component is faulty or broken since if you are involved in an accident your insurance will be invalid. It can also impact your safety when driving, as you will need to rely on the brake pedal only to stop the car. A broken or faulty handbrake can also put you and other road users at risk when parking since there is no way for you to keep the car stationary when you are not in the driver’s seat.
If the Handbrake Isn’t Broken, What Else Might be Wrong?
Most of the time, issues with the handbrake are obvious – you won’t be able to keep the car stationary when parking, and your car will roll when on a hill. If you are having other issues with braking, but your car does not move or roll when you engage the handbrake, then the issue is more likely to be with other components of your braking system rather than the handbrake. This could include problems with the brake pipes, calipers, brake pads, and brake discs and might include issues such as visible brake fluid around the inner wheels, noisy brakes, a longer stopping distance, vibration, or pulling to one side when braking.
What Are Some Signs of a Broken or Faulty Handbrake to Be Aware Of?
If your handbrake is failing or faulty, your car will still move when it is parked and the brake is applied. You may also notice that your handbrake is stuck in place and difficult or impossible to release, or you might see a dashboard warning light on a more modern car.
What Happens When a Handbrake is Replaced?
The mechanic will first conduct an inspection of your handbrake system to diagnose any issues. If necessary, your handbrake cable will be replaced with a new one, and then calibrated for performance. Any other components of the handbrake such as the brake discs will also be inspected and replaced if necessary. The handbrake will then be tested to ensure that it meets industry standards and that the braking system is working to the best possible performance.
How Can I Repair a Handbrake?
If you have the necessary expertise and skill, you may want to try repairing your handbrake yourself. However, bear in mind that this is a specialist job, and having it carried out by a professional is recommended. There are several risks involved with carrying out this repair incorrectly, including more damage to the handbrake and overall braking system. To repair a handbrake, you will need a range of tools including a car jack, wheel wrench, clippers, pliers, and a hammer.