Front brake pad sets for the entire front axle typically cost about $25 to $110 per axle, depending on brand and material. If your Sentra uses rear drum brakes, you won't buy rear pads at all; you would replace drum brake shoes, which are typically cheaper.
What affects brake pad pricing
Prices vary based on material (eco/organic, semi-metallic, ceramic), brand, whether you buy OEM versus aftermarket, inclusion of hardware or wear sensors, and where you shop (dealer, independent parts store, or online). Labor costs for installation also differ by region and shop.
Typical price ranges for front brake pads
Below are common price ranges you might see for front pad sets across popular categories. Prices shown are for a complete front-axle replacement set.
- Economy/Standard organic or semi-metallic pads: $25–$50 per front axle
- Mid-range semi-metallic pads: $40–$70 per front axle
- Ceramic or low-dust pads: $60–$110 per front axle
- Premium/OEM-grade or performance ceramic: $90–$120+ per front axle
Prices vary by retailer and may or may not include hardware, anti-squeal paste, or wear sensors. Always confirm what’s included when you price pads.
Rear brakes: what you’ll actually replace
The 2013 Nissan Sentra’s rear brakes may be drum-type on some trims. If your car has rear discs, the pads are priced similarly to the front pads; if the rear brakes are drums, you’ll be replacing brake shoes instead, which are typically cheaper per axle.
Where to buy and installation considerations
Shopping options include local auto parts stores, online retailers, and Nissan dealers. Consider whether you’ll install them yourself or have a shop do it; labor charges typically add $100 to $250 per axle, depending on local rates and rotor condition.
- Brick-and-mortar chains (AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, NAPA) offer both economy and premium pad sets, with frequent in-store discounts.
- Online retailers and OEM direct sellers (RockAuto, Amazon, manufacturer sites) provide wide price ranges; shipping can affect total cost.
- Nissan dealerships supply OEM parts and may offer bundled service packages, usually at higher upfront prices but with guaranteed compatibility and warranty.
Always verify compatibility with your exact vehicle using the VIN or parts fiche, and consider whether rear discs/rotors need replacement or resurfacing at the same time as the front pads.
Summary
For a 2013 Nissan Sentra, expect front brake pad sets per axle to range roughly from $25 to $110, depending on material and brand. Rear brakes depend on whether your model uses drums or discs; drums use shoes (typically cheaper), while discs use pads with price ranges similar to the front. Labor costs can add to the total, so shop around and confirm exact parts with your VIN before purchasing.