How do brake discs work?
Brake discs (also known as rotors) are a key part of your car’s braking system and work closely with the brake pads to slow your vehicle down.
When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is sent through the braking system to the brake caliper. The caliper then squeezes the brake pads against the spinning brake disc. This creates friction, which slows the rotation of the wheel and brings the car to a stop.
The brake disc itself is a flat, round metal surface that spins along with the wheel. Because it’s constantly exposed to air, it can cool down quickly, which helps prevent overheating and keeps braking performance consistent.
Every time you brake, a small amount of material wears away from both the brake pads and the disc. Over time, this wear can reduce braking performance, which is why both components need to be checked and replaced when necessary.
In simple terms, brake discs provide the surface that the brake pads clamp onto and when they work together, they generate the friction needed to safely slow your car down.
When do I know I need to replace brake discs?
- You experience vibration or pulsing when braking.
- You hear noises under braking, especially grinding.
- The car pulls to one side when braking.
- You notice, or are advised during an MOT, that the discs are scored, pitted, or cracked.
It’s worth noting that a light surface layer of rust on brake discs after rain is normal. This will usually clear after a few uses of the brakes.
What does a brake disc replacement job involve?
Changing brake discs and pads is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so. Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are broadly similar.
The mechanic will:
- Slacken the wheel nuts (please ensure you have your locking wheel nut key to hand if fitted).
- Raise the vehicle and secure it on axle or chassis stands.
- Remove the wheel nuts and wheel.
- Undo the retaining bolts for the brake caliper as required.
- Remove the old brake pads and discs.
- Clean the components as far as possible.
- Fit the new brake pads and discs.
- Tighten all components back into place.
- Refit the wheel, lower the car, and torque the wheel nuts correctly.
- Settle the brake pads into position while stationary, then carry out a brief road test to ensure everything is working as it should.
How much does brake disc replacement cost?
Based on brake pad replacement bookings on ClickMechanic, most repairs fall between ranges between £200 and £500 per axle, depending on the make and model of the vehicle and whether the brake pads are replaced at the same time. Brake discs are usually replaced in pairs (front or rear), and the total cost can increase slightly if both the discs and pads need replacing together. At ClickMechanic, when booking brake disc replacement, the brake pads will also be replaced to ensure safe braking ability.
Using ClickMechanic, you can get an exact quote for the brake disc replacement and a vetted mechanic in your area will carry out the repair at your home or workplace.
Typical brake disc replacement costs in the UK
Below are typical front brake disc replacement costs for some of the most common cars in the UK:
- Ford Fiesta front brake disc replacement cost: £170 – £350
- Vauxhall Corsa front brake disc replacement cost: £180 – £320
- Volkswagen Golf front brake disc replacement cost: £230 – £400
- BMW 3 Series front brake disc replacement cost: £350 – £550
- Audi A3 front brake disc replacement cost: £230 – £500
- Nissan Qashqai front brake disc replacement cost: £300 – £450
What affects the cost of brake disc replacement?
A few factors can influence the final price of a brake disc replacement:
Replacing brake pads and discs together
Brake discs and pads wear together, so mechanics often recommend replacing both at the same time. This increases the overall cost but ensures even braking and helps avoid premature wear of new components.
Labour time
Brake disc replacement is generally straightforward, but in some rare cases labour time can increase if components are seized, corroded or difficult to remove particularly on older vehicles.
Why are brake disc replacement more expensive than brake pads replacement?
Brake discs are larger, heavier components that work alongside the brake pads to slow the vehicle down. Over time, discs wear down, become uneven or develop grooves from contact with worn brake pads.
Although this increases the upfront cost, it can help prevent uneven wear and reduce the likelihood of needing another repair shortly afterwards.
The easiest way to find out the cost of replacing a brake discs for your car is to get an instant quote online. You can enter your car registration and postcode to see an upfront pricing.
For a more detailed breakdown of typical brake pad replacement prices, see our brake disc replacement cost guide.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the brake discs don’t need replacing?
If the issue is caused by something else, the mechanic will provide a no-obligation quote for the correct repair. If you’re happy to proceed, the booking can be updated accordingly.
If you choose not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the booking can be changed to a call-out and diagnostic appointment, with charges based on the time spent inspecting the vehicle and attending the call-out.
If I've just changed my brake pads not too long ago, can they be reused?
No, brake pads should not be reused when fitting new discs.
Brake pads wear to match the surface of the old discs. If they are fitted onto new, flat discs, the contact area is reduced, which can significantly affect braking performance and safety.
For this reason, new brake pads are always fitted when replacing brake discs. While this may add to the overall cost, it ensures the braking system works effectively and helps avoid uneven wear or further issues down the line.
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Frequently asked questions about brake disc replacement & repairs
Read our answers to questions about brake disc replacement costs, symptoms and more.
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.
Can you drive with a worn brake disc?
If you experience any untoward characteristics in your braking, or if you suspect there is any issue with a brake disc or there are concerns about its age or condition, book a diagnostic inspection immediately and do not drive the vehicle. If the brake discs are worn to a point at which brake performance and safety is impaired then it is important to get these replaced immediately and do not drive the vehicle. A mechanic can diagnose any issues and provide advice on any brake repairs required.
Should you replace brake pads and discs together?
Yes, if you are told the brake discs need replacing then this will need to be done in conjunction with the brake pads. If it is has been professionally diagnosed that just the brake pads are worn and have caused no damage to the discs then it is not always needed to replace the discs at the same time. At ClickMechanic we offer brake discs and pads replacements as well as brake pads replacements. If you are unsure which brake parts need replacing then book with a professional mechanic who can check the brakes and advise on next steps. If you experience any untoward characteristics in your braking, book a diagnostic inspection immediately and do not drive the vehicle.
Do you have to replace brake pads when replacing discs?
Yes, if you are replacing the discs then you will also need to replace the pads at the same time. At ClickMechanic brake discs are always fitted with new brake pads, no matter how new the pads are. It is a major breach of road safety ethics not to do so as it will seriously degrade your braking ability. If you don’t replace brake discs and pads together, your brand new discs will wear unevenly and can get damaged.
What is the average life of disc brakes?
The average life of brake discs will depend on a number of factors, generally disc brakes should last at least 75,000 miles. The way you use your vehicle, how you brake, the quality of the brake parts used and workmanship will ultimately all have an effect on how long brake discs will last so the lifespan can be shorter or longer than average.
Are worn brake discs an MOT failure?
Yes, brake disc surfaces can develop scores, pit holes or cracks and can lead to a condition in which they are seriously weakened. If this impedes with the safe operation of the brakes an MOT failure may follow.
What is the difference between Disc Brakes and Drum Brakes?
The differences can be summed up as follows:
- Disc brakes have calipers that grip the discs directly whereas drum brakes have shoes that press against the drum.
- Disc brakes are generally considered more modern and effective than drum brakes due to their advanced design.
- Disc brakes are usually more expensive than drum brakes.
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!
Check out the ClickMechanic price for a brake disc replacement. See the averages for different makes below. We consolidate industry standard data with millions of data points to give you the most accurate price. These estimates may include Front brake pads including sensor, Front brake pad wear sensor, Front brake disc, Front brake pads, Rear brake pads including sensor, Rear brake pad wear sensor, Rear brake disc and/or Rear brake pads.
| Name | Average Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Audi | £277 | Get exact price |
| BMW | £315 | Get exact price |
| Citroen | £218 | Get exact price |
| Ford | £203 | Get exact price |
| Land Rover | £286 | Get exact price |
| Mercedes-Benz | £284 | Get exact price |
| Nissan | £221 | Get exact price |
| Peugeot | £214 | Get exact price |
| Renault | £246 | Get exact price |
| Toyota | £191 | Get exact price |
| Vauxhall | £205 | Get exact price |
| Volkswagen | £203 | Get exact price |
Estimates on average repair costs, such as the above results for a brake disc replacement, are based on ClickMechanic's quote data which combines multiple third-party sources. Actual costs may vary. We provide estimates on average repair costs for information only and accept no liability for any inaccuracies or errors. If you think an estimate is incorrect, please contact us to let us know.
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Mechanics that undertake brake disc work
- A & M Motors, Hampshire
- Blucher MOT, Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Das Technik Vehicle Centre, Weston Super Mare
- Greens Auto Services, Norwich, Norfolk
- Jonathan Mcloughlin Autocare T/A NOTHERN MOTORS, St Helens
- KWIK FIX MK LTD, Milton Keynes
- L&R Autos, Deal Kent
- MOT PLUS MK, Milton Keynes
- Mark Collier, Newton Le Willows
- Mot Factory, Thamesmead
- Mr Toms Autos, Romsey
- Nuvo Automotive Ltd, Redditch
- OP ASSIST, Margate
- PARC FERME GARAGE LTD, Woodbury
- Park Road Garage Ltd, Bedford
- Richards Recoveries, Cardiff
- SLG Autoserve Ltd, Kidlington
- Tadstar, Glasgow
- Z Carz, Benfleet
- Zaher Miah, London