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16 August 2023 Car brake hose: function and failure symptoms
This key braking system component is easy to overlook. That is, until a problem arises. Keep reading to find out more about common brake hose problems and what to consider when replacing these vital parts.
The difference between brake hoses and brake lines
Both the lines and hoses are responsible for delivering the car hydraulic fluid from the system’s master cylinder to the wheel cylinders and brake calipers, thereby actuating the pistons and engaging the brakes. However, unlike the solid metal lines that run throughout the system, brake hoses are short rubber tubes that are found at the wheels and are connected to the brake lines.
The reason the long metal tubes don’t reach all the way to the wheels is because they would get damaged as the wheel turns or the vehicle drives over bumps and uneven surfaces. A brake pipe hose offers greater flexibility, allowing the wheels to move with the car’s suspension. The main downside here is that they are more prone to wear due to the hoses’ construction and location.
-34%
Article number: PHD1111
compared to
RRP
£ 22,10
£ 14,53
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-45%
Article number: PHD567
compared to
RRP
£ 37,51
£ 20,29
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-41%
ATE Brake hose
233 mm
Article number: 24.1253-0020.3
compared to
RRP
£ 35,48
£ 20,91
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 1161500270
£ 20,01
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-40%
Article number: 83.6103-0400.3
compared to
RRP
£ 44,10
£ 26,12
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
It may also be possible to install stainless steel brake hoses. These are more expensive than their rubber counterparts but their stainless steel sheath makes them more durable, protecting the pipes against external influences, cracks and abrasion. You can compare a range of front and rear brake hoses in our catalogue.
QUICK BRAKE Brake hose
860 mm, M10x1, with external thread
Article number: 96.004X
£ 13,85
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-25%
Article number: 05742
compared to
RRP
£ 6,99
£ 5,24
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: T 85 112
£ 11,58
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 1161500280
£ 20,01
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-43%
Article number: SL 5746
compared to
RRP
£ 27,48
£ 15,60
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Signs that it is time to replace the brake hose
If there are visible signs of damage, including cracks, tears, hardened rubber, and bulging, it is recommended that you replace the parts rather than attempting to repair them yourself.
- Fluid leaks. A damaged or loose brake hose will likely result in a brake fluid leak. If the hydraulic fluid is escaping, it will become more difficult to engage and disengage the brakes.
- Soft or mushy brake pedal. A loss of fluid may also make the pedal less responsive, potentially causing it to feel soft or mushy. This can also occur when there is internal damage to the pipe, which causes the pipe to swell up from the inside and retain pressure. If air is able to seep through the hoses, the pedal will feel spongy when you press it.
- Brakes not functioning. When a brake hose fails, it’s possible that the system will not be able to generate and deliver the pressure needed to force the brakes to engage, posing a significant safety risk. Alternatively, the car brake calipers can get stuck if the fluid is unable to flow back into the system. You may notice that the car pulls to one side when braking or is dragging on one side when driving.
- Squealing or grinding brakes. As mentioned above, a collapsed brake hose will restrict the flow of fluid to and from the calipers or brake drums. This can cause the brakes to drag and generate a lot of noise while you’re driving. Please note that noises could have other possible causes, such as brake pad wear.
If you’re replacing the hoses, you require specialised car brake repair tools, such as reset tools or bleeding and testing units. It is highly recommended that you bleed the system after installing the new parts.
How much does a new brake hose cost?
The parts themselves are pretty cheap, with online prices starting at around £4.50 and usually not exceeding £30. However, if you get the hose replaced professionally, you’ll have to add on the labour costs.
It’s important that you only purchase parts that are compatible with the specific vehicle model. To find the right one for you, simply search using keywords, e.g. “Volvo brake hose”, or enter the vehicle’s registration number or OEM part number online.
