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Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost Estimate
Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your brake vacuum pump replacement? Use Jerry's GarageGuard to get fair cost estimate for your brake vacuum pump replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does a brake vacuum pump replacement cost?
- What parts do I need for my brake vacuum pump replacement?
- Where can I get my brake vacuum pump replaced?
- How will a mechanic do a brake vacuum pump replacement?
- Is it safe to drive with a bad vacuum pump?
- What is a brake vacuum pump replacement?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
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How much does a brake vacuum pump replacement cost?
The average total cost for a brake vacuum pump replacement is $398, including $276 for parts and $122 for labor. The exact price will depend on your vehicle’s year and model.
Depending on the condition of your car's brakes, your repair cost might include a new brake booster, hose, and fluid in addition to a replacement brake vacuum pump. As for the labor cost, it takes around 1.0 hours for a certified mechanic to inspect your vehicle, determine whether a repair is necessary, and then perform the brake vacuum pump replacement.
Here’s how much you’ll pay for a brake vacuum pump replacement for some popular vehicle models:
| Estimate Date | Customer | Car | Fair Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Labor Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
April 23, 2024 | Abbie, 23 Hamilton, OH | Mercury Mariner | $463 | $394 | $68 | 0.7 Hours |
April 19, 2024 | Helen, 30 Dublin, PA | Lincoln MKS | $467 | $394 | $73 | 0.7 Hours |
April 17, 2024 | Sarah, 34 Pittsburgh, PA | Tesla Model S | $475 | $394 | $80 | 0.7 Hours |
April 16, 2024 | Bradley, 36 Chicago, IL | Buick Lucerne | $477 | $394 | $82 | 0.7 Hours |
April 11, 2024 | Gordon, 45 Buffalo, NY | Nissan Xterra | $404 | $325 | $79 | 0.7 Hours |
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my brake vacuum pump replacement?
Your vehicle’s braking system is subject to an extreme amount of wear and tear. In the course of inspecting your vehicle, a mechanic might notice other parts in need of replacement, so the total parts list might include:
- A new brake vacuum pump ($250-$350): The brake vacuum pump helps the brake booster supply hydraulic pressure to the brake system. The pressurized brake fluid passes from the brake master cylinder along the brake lines to the brake calipers (in a disc rotor system) or the brake wheel cylinders (in a drum system).
- A new brake booster ($10-$670): The brake booster transforms your foot’s pressure on the brake pedal into enough power to stop a moving vehicle. It accomplishes this using the negative pressure supplied by the brake vacuum pump. A crack, brake fluid leak, or faulty gasket means a bad brake booster.
- New brake hoses($5-$350): Although they’re made of strong rubber or steel, the brake hoses (or brake lines) that transfer fluid from the brake master cylinder can also fail.
- Fresh brake fluid($5-$40): Brake fluid is the thin oil in the brake lines of your vehicle’s hydraulic brakes. Ask your mechanic to top it up while they’re looking at your brake shoes to keep everything working properly.
Keep in mind: While inspecting your brake vacuum pump, the mechanic might discover the need for a new brake booster, new brake lines, and fresh brake fluid as well.
We recommend purchasing parts at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. We also recommend reputable brands such as ACDelco, Pierburg, and Dorman for their reliability. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.
Should I buy an OEM or aftermarket brake vacuum pump?
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts cost more than aftermarket parts, but they include a better warranty. For example, Toyota brake vacuum pumps come with a 24-month/25,000-mile warranty if they’re installed by a certified Toyota mechanic.
Where can I buy parts for my brake vacuum pump replacement?
You can buy new brake pads at automotive body and parts shops like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts and O'Reilly Auto Parts; at dealerships; or online at Amazon and RockAuto. If you prefer OEM parts, you can also try your vehicle manufacturer’s official website. Honda, Mazda, Nissan, and just about every other car maker sell OEM parts online. Wherever you buy, check your owner’s manual for any crucial specifications before shopping.
Where can I get my brake vacuum pump replaced?
Finding the right place to get your brake vacuum pump replaced can be tricky—especially if you don’t have a trusted mechanic to turn to. Luckily, Jerry's
GarageGuard™
can help you compare costs for the services you need from over 2,500 reputable repair shops across the country. Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from shops using their actual hourly labor rate. Jerry's GarageGuard™ will also let you know if you need to budget for diagnostic fees and show you reviews from real customers to help you choose the best service.
Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
115 Reviews
Velasquez Auto Care - Cesar Chavez
709 S Cesar E Chavez Dr, Milwaukee, WI
Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$438
(Parts - $310, Labor - $128)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$35164 Reviews
Discount Tire & Service Centers - Fullerton 2
2341 E Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA
Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$480
(Parts - $310, Labor - $170)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$95174 Reviews
Yoo's Auto Service & Collision
189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA
Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$413
(Parts - $310, Labor - $103)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$100107 Reviews
HMS Auto and Fleet
7887 F St, Omaha, NE
Brake Vacuum Pump Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$456
(Parts - $310, Labor - $146)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$134How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic do a brake vacuum pump replacement?
A brake vacuum pump replacement requires basic equipment, moderate knowledge of the brake system, and a lot of caution. During the brake job, your mechanic will:
- Disconnect the battery, raise the car, and remove the engine shield from the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the brake booster vacuum hoses and electric connector, then remove the brake booster vacuum pump from the mounting bracket.
- Install the new brake vacuum pump in the mounting bracket.
- Replace the vacuum lines and electrical connector.
- Replace the engine shield, lower the car, and reconnect the battery.
Is it safe to drive with a bad vacuum pump?
It’s unsafe to drive with a bad vacuum pump. When you press down on the brake pedal, you create 70 pounds of pressure (at most). It’s not enough force to bring 4,000 pounds or more of glass, steel, and rubber to a stop. You need a brake booster (and the brake vacuum pump) to supply the rest.
The bottom line is, any fix concerning your vehicle’s braking system is non-optional!
What is a brake vacuum pump replacement?
A brake vacuum pump replacement removes a faulty component from your vehicle’s brake booster, then installs a new one.
Turbo and diesel engines need a vacuum pump to extract the air and create the vacuum necessary for the brake booster to function. The vacuum pump reduces reliance on the engine for the vacuum. You might also need a vacuum pump if you drive at high altitudes where the air is thinner.
When should I replace my brake vacuum pump?
Check your car's manual to learn how often you should replace your brake vacuum pump. Having said that, there are a few signs you might need a replacement sooner than expected:
- The brakes feel “poky” or slow to respond
- In order to stop your car, you must push the brake pedal extra hard
- When you press the brake pedal, you hear a hissing sound
- The brake pedal slips to the floor when the car is running but stationary
- It's hard for you to brake quickly when you have to stop several times in heavy traffic
Key takeaway: If you hear a hissing noise when you press the brake pedal, or you need to push it harder than normal, you might have a faulty brake vacuum pump.
How long does a brake booster vacuum pump last?
A brake booster vacuum pump is intended to last the entire life of your vehicle. However, since it’s one of the hardest-working parts in your brake system, it can get damaged or wear out.
Can I do a brake vacuum pump replacement myself?
Unless you’re a confident DIY mechanic, we don’t recommend performing a brake vacuum replacement yourself. The brake system isn’t hard to access—you only need a torque wrench, brake cleaner, and replacement parts. However, you’ll have to work around the coolant hose (the contents of which can burn your skin) and if you make a mistake, you could cause a catastrophic brake fluid leak.
FAQs
How do I know if my brake vacuum is leaking?
If you have to push the brake pedal harder than usual, there could be a leak in your brake booster or vacuum pump. It’s time to visit a garage ASAP!
What causes a brake vacuum pump to fail?
Although it’s designed to last a (vehicle’s) lifetime, your brake vacuum can fail under continuous use. The sustained air pressure inside the chamber can cause leaks or cracks to form. There’s no repairing a faulty brake vacuum pump—sooner or later, it’s going to blow, so it’s best to replace the whole thing.
What does a brake vacuum sensor do?
A brake vacuum sensor measures the strength of the vacuum created within the brake booster relative to the pressure of the atmosphere outside. Using a transducer and resistors, the sensor converts the measurement into an output signal, which the car’s onboard computer uses to regulate the brake vacuum pump. If there’s a vacuum leak, the computer will activate a brake warning light (or a check engine light) and a code for a faulty brake booster.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.
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