Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Parts Cost: - The cost of a new brake wheel cylinder typically ranges from $10 to $60 per cylinder. The price can vary depending on the brand and quality of the part.
2. Labor Cost: - Labor costs for replacing a brake wheel cylinder can range from $50 to $150 per hour. The total labor time for this job is usually about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the vehicle and the complexity of the brake system.
3. Total Cost: - Overall, the total cost for replacing a brake wheel cylinder can range from approximately $70 to $250 per wheel. This includes both parts and labor.
4. Additional Costs: - If the brake system requires bleeding or if other components like brake shoes or drums need replacement, additional costs may be incurred.
5. Repair vs. Replacement: - In some cases, a brake wheel cylinder can be repaired if the issue is minor, such as replacing seals. However, given the relatively low cost of new cylinders, replacement is often recommended for reliability and safety.It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different repair shops and ensure that the mechanics are certified and experienced in brake system repairs. Additionally, some shops may offer package deals if multiple brake components need servicing.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Inspection: Before any replacement or repair, the brake system, including the wheel cylinder, should be thoroughly inspected for leaks, corrosion, or damage. This helps determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.
2. Removal of the Wheel and Drum: The wheel and brake drum (in drum brake systems) need to be removed to access the wheel cylinder. This involves loosening the lug nuts, removing the wheel, and then taking off the brake drum.
3. Brake Shoe Removal: In some cases, the brake shoes may need to be removed or loosened to gain better access to the wheel cylinder.
4. Disconnecting the Brake Line: The brake line connected to the wheel cylinder must be carefully disconnected. This step requires caution to prevent damage to the brake line and to avoid brake fluid leakage.
5. Removing the Old Wheel Cylinder: The wheel cylinder is typically held in place by bolts or clips, which need to be removed. Once these are taken out, the old wheel cylinder can be detached from the backing plate.
6. Installation of the New Wheel Cylinder: The new wheel cylinder is installed by reversing the removal process. It is secured to the backing plate with bolts or clips, and the brake line is reconnected.
7. Reassembly: After the new wheel cylinder is in place, the brake shoes, drum, and wheel are reassembled. This includes ensuring that all components are properly aligned and secured.
8. Bleeding the Brakes: Since the brake system was opened, it is crucial to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This ensures that the brakes function correctly and maintain proper hydraulic pressure.
9. Testing: Once everything is reassembled, the brake system should be tested to ensure that it is working properly. This includes checking for leaks and ensuring that the brake pedal feels firm.
10. Brake Fluid Top-Up: If any brake fluid was lost during the process, it should be topped up to the appropriate level in the master cylinder reservoir.These steps ensure that the brake wheel cylinder is properly replaced or repaired, maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the vehicle's braking system.
What is a Brake Wheel Cylinder and What Does It Do?
The brake wheel cylinder is a component in a drum brake system, which is commonly found in the rear brakes of many vehicles. Its primary function is to convert hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid into mechanical force to push the brake shoes against the drum, creating the friction needed to slow down or stop the vehicle.Here's a more detailed explanation of its components and operation:
1. Location: The wheel cylinder is located at the top of each wheel's drum brake assembly. In a typical setup, each wheel with drum brakes will have its own wheel cylinder.
2. Components: - Cylinder Body: The main housing that contains the internal components. - Pistons: Typically, there are two pistons inside the cylinder, one on each side. These pistons move outward when hydraulic pressure is applied. - Seals: Rubber seals are used to prevent brake fluid from leaking out of the cylinder. - Bleeder Valve: This is used to remove air from the brake system during maintenance. - Dust Boots: These protect the pistons and seals from dirt and moisture.
3. Operation: - When the driver presses the brake pedal, brake fluid is forced through the brake lines into the wheel cylinder. - The hydraulic pressure pushes the pistons outward. - The pistons then push the brake shoes against the inner surface of the brake drum. - The friction between the shoes and the drum slows down the wheel, thereby slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
4. Maintenance: - Over time, the seals in the wheel cylinder can wear out, leading to leaks. This can cause a loss of brake fluid and reduced braking efficiency. - Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to ensure the wheel cylinders are functioning correctly. If a wheel cylinder is leaking or not working properly, it should be repaired or replaced to maintain safe braking performance.Understanding the role and function of the brake wheel cylinder is essential for diagnosing brake issues and ensuring the safety and reliability of a vehicle's braking system.
Signs of a bad Brake Wheel Cylinder
The brake wheel cylinder is a crucial component in a vehicle's drum brake system. It plays a vital role in converting hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid into mechanical force to push the brake shoes against the drum, thereby slowing down or stopping the vehicle. Signs of failure in the brake wheel cylinder can lead to reduced braking performance and should be addressed promptly. Here are some common signs of failure:
1. Spongy Brake Pedal: If the brake pedal feels spongy or soft when pressed, it could indicate a problem with the wheel cylinder. This is often due to air entering the brake lines or a leak in the hydraulic system, which reduces the effectiveness of the brakes.
2. Brake Fluid Leaks: One of the most common signs of a failing wheel cylinder is a brake fluid leak. You might notice fluid on the inside of the wheel or on the ground where the vehicle is parked. A low brake fluid level in the reservoir can also be an indicator.
3. Poor Braking Performance: If the vehicle takes longer to stop or the brakes feel less responsive, it could be due to a malfunctioning wheel cylinder. This can be dangerous and should be inspected immediately.
4. Uneven Brake Wear: A failing wheel cylinder can cause uneven wear on the brake shoes. If one side of the brake shoes is more worn than the other, it might be due to a wheel cylinder that is not functioning properly.
5. Pulling to One Side: If the vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it could be a sign that one of the wheel cylinders is not applying pressure evenly. This can cause the brakes on one side to engage more than the other.
6. Brake Warning Light: Many vehicles have a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light comes on, it could indicate a problem with the brake system, including the wheel cylinders.
7. Noisy Brakes: Unusual noises such as squealing, grinding, or scraping when applying the brakes can be a sign of a problem with the wheel cylinder or other brake components.If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious brake system failures and compromise vehicle safety.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
