Brake Disc replacement & repair made easy

What are brake discs?

Brake discs provide the surface for the brake pads to come into contact with in order to slow the motion of the wheel.

What does a brake discs replacement involve?

• Mechanic will inspect the brake discs.
• If necessary, the brake discs will be replaced along with new brake pads.
• Mechanic will check the brake system and, if deemed safe, will do a test drive.

Can you replace brake discs yourself?

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a brake discs replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

What are the symptoms of worn brake discs?

• If you experience vibration whilst braking.
• If the car start to pull to one side under braking.
• If you notice (or are advised on an MOT) that the disc surfaces have developed scores, pit holes or cracks.

Please note, if you see a surface of fine rust on a mild steel disc after rain, this is quite normal and will rub off once the brakes are used a couple of times.

How long does it take to replace brake discs and pads?

On average, brake discs and pads replacement times can range from around 1 hour to 2 hours with an average of around 1 hour. The time that the job takes will depend on a number of factors, like your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

How often do you need to change brake discs?

Due to the wear and tear on the surfaces, discs are frequently changed during the life time of a vehicle. Usually this is mileage related, but also the vehicles use and weight can mean more frequent changes.

You should expect to have it done once your car has covered anything between 15,000 and 50,000 miles.

A visual examination of the braking system of your car is included every time it is serviced

How can I extend the lifetime of my brake discs?

As with most parts of your car, the less pressure you put on any part of your car’s brakes, the longer they will last. If you carry heavy loads frequently, or tow a caravan for example, your brake system will come under greater pressure than it would otherwise and as such the discs may wear prematurely. Therefore, removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle will not only improve your fuel consumption, it will reduce the wear on the brakes.

Also consider your driving style. Anticipating the road conditions ahead, keeping your speed as constant as possible, and thereby avoiding sharp braking are all likely to lengthen the interval between brake disc replacements.

How do I know if my brakes need to be replaced?

Brake discs will gradually become thinner due to the friction between them and the brake pads.

This wear and tear can be hastened by inappropriate brake pads being fitted, worn brake pads and excessive hard braking. If you can see a rough surface you brake pads will feel it! It will be like running the pads over a cheese grater and they will wear out very quickly!

If the brake discs have worn out prematurely or if you are experiencing trouble under braking, it is advisable to seek the help of an expert to investigate the problem and, if necessary, replace the discs as soon as possible. Driving with brakes that do not function properly can, of course, lead to dangerous situations on the road.

Brake discs are supplied and fitted in axle pairs (i.e. front or rear). It is equally important to have new brake pads fitted at the same time otherwise any wear pattern on the pads from the previous discs could severely reduce the contact area between the two. This is so important that no mechanic would consider doing otherwise.

How can I extend the lifetime of my brake discs?

As with most parts of your car, the less pressure you put on any part of your car’s brakes, the longer they will last. If you carry heavy loads frequently, or tow a caravan for example, your brake system will come under greater pressure than it would otherwise and as such the discs may wear prematurely. Therefore, removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle will not only improve your fuel consumption, it will reduce the wear on the brakes.

Also consider your driving style. Anticipating the road conditions ahead, keeping your speed as constant as possible, and thereby avoiding sharp braking are all likely to lengthen the interval between brake disc replacements.

How much does a brake discs replacement cost?

Cost for a front brake discs and pads replacement is on average £185, with pricing ranging from around £130 to £375. A rear brake discs pads replacement cost varies from £125 to £350, with an average of £175. Ultimately, cost depends on your location, car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your brake discs and pads replaced by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!