Brake Hoses

Do your old rubber hoses give way under hard braking, or has your car been lifted so the original hoses are now too short? Brake hoses with steel braiding can give a more direct pedal feel and are available both individually and as complete kits for your project.

What do braided stainless steel brake hoses do?

The brake hose is the flexible connection between the brake lines and the caliper and has to follow the wheel's movements through suspension travel and steering. Rubber hoses can expand slightly under pressure, especially as they age, and this can result in a softer pedal. A hose with stainless steel braiding typically expands less. However, a soft or long pedal can also be caused by air in the system or boiling brake fluid, so new hoses won't solve everything. For fixed line routing you'll find brake lines and hard lines, while hoses for other fluids are listed under braided hoses.

How to choose brake hoses

• Fitment: Choose a kit for your car or individual hoses with the length and connections your system requires. Extended hoses are available for lifted vehicles, e.g. for the Ford F-250/F-350.
• Length and routing: The hose must be able to follow full suspension travel and steering lock without stretching or rubbing against other parts.
• Connections: Threads and washers must match the caliper and lines. Separate hose ends and fittings are available.
• Approval: Whether a hose is road legal depends on the product and the car. Check for E-mark or other approval for the specific part number.

Among others, we carry brake hose kits from Russell as well as brands such as DFC, Fragola, EBC and R1 Concepts. After installation, the brake system must be bled, and the hoses should be checked regularly for damage, wear and leaks.

Frequently asked questions

Can you feel a difference between braided stainless steel brake hoses and rubber hoses?

It depends on the car and the condition of the old hoses. Braided stainless steel hoses typically expand less under pressure, which can give a firmer pedal, especially if the original rubber hoses are worn.

Can braided stainless steel brake hoses pass a roadworthiness inspection?

It depends on the product and the car. Check whether the specific part number has an E-mark or other valid approval, and whether the documentation covers your car, before you go for inspection.

Do the brakes need to be bled after replacing brake hoses?

Yes. When a hose is removed, air gets into the system and has to be removed again. Use the type of brake fluid your car is designed for, and afterwards check for leaks and correct hose routing.