Brake Pads replacement & repair done differently

What does a Brake Pad do?

Provided your car has disc brakes, the brake pads are an integral part of the brake unit at each wheel. Usually, there are between 4-8 brake pads on each car. The brake pad is mounted inside the brake caliper at each wheel. When you apply the brakes the brake pads are forced onto the brake discs around the car, this, in turn, slows the car down.

How do you know there is something wrong with a Brake Pad?

• When the car does not slow down as well as would usually be the case.
• When there is a squeaking or grinding noise to be heard when you brake.
• When the brake warning light on the car's dashboard is on.
• When the 'Low Brake Pad' warning light is on (only some cars have this).
• When the brake pedal is in a lower position than usual.
• When the car vibrates under braking.
• When the car pulls to one side.

When should you consider replacing a Brake Pad?

The pads will wear depending on your driving style and the environment where you drive (in the city or in the countryside). If the brake pads 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 pads as soon as possible.

Driving with brakes that do not function properly can, of course, lead to dangerous situations on the road. You should always replace either both the front pads, both the rear pads or all the pads together to ensure balanced brakes.

Importantly, servicing the brake pads is key to ensure that the brake system works correctly and effectively. Always service the brake pads according to the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

What happens during a Brake Pad replacement?

• Mechanic will inspect the brake system.
• Mechanic will establish how many brake pads need to be replaced.
• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the brake pads.
• Mechanic will inspect the brake system and, if deemed safe, will test drive the car.
• If necessary, the mechanic will make any adjustments to optimise braking.

What happens if I don’t get my car’s Brake Pads replaced?

And when you consider that they can help bring to a halt from any speed a couple of tons of metal, along with its contents (i.e. you and your passengers), you can easily see why it’s important that you replace them when needed.

Worn brake pads mean that you will need longer to slow your car down safely and to stop quickly and predictably.

In extreme cases, the softer material lining the pads which comes into direct contact with the steel rim of the wheel can wear away completely, and you’ll hear the unmistakable sound of metal on metal. This means that you’re damaging the inner rim of the wheel.

For safety reasons, most car manufacturers recommend having fresh brake pads fitted at set intervals, in line with the servicing periods designed to keep your car running as smoothly and safely as possible.

Can I do a Brake Pad replacement myself?

Replacing brake pads is one of the more straightforward repair jobs however you will need a driveway or a safe, traffic-free area. When this can’t be provided, it’s wise to leave the job to a brake repair specialist.

They will make sure that your brake pads repair is done in exactly the right order, ensuring that all the parts are removed properly, and then put back in the right order. It’s also crucial that you can clearly see what you are doing. If needed, mechanics will use extra lighting to shine on when they are fitting your new brake pads.

 How common is Brake Pad replacement?

When you consider that your brake pads are a couple of small pieces of rubber, it’s inevitable that, in time, they will wear away. Just like your tyres, the harder you drive and the more you use your brakes, the more often you will need to have the brake pads changed.

The way you drive can have a significant effect on how long you can drive between two brake pad replacements.

What are common Brake Pad brands on the market?

The UK is home to some of the longest-established and best-known brake pad manufacturers, one of the best known being Ferodo.

High-performance cars demand particularly specialised types of brake pads to help stop them safely from higher speeds, and there are also manufacturers such as EBC which specialise in making pads which stand up to this kind of tough use.

Brembo is another name widely associated with high-performance car brake systems and parts, including brake pads.

Are there any differences between the Brake Pads used in old/new vehicles, or between petrol, diesel or electric vehicles?

Generally, no. The main distinctions when considering what products to use for brake pad replacement will be the degree of use to which the car’s brake will be put. If you use your car mainly for short journeys with multiple stops, and in heavy traffic will mean your vehicle will need a brake pad replacement more often than on one which makes longer journeys on faster and less busy roads.

High-performance cars which might need to brake safely from higher speeds will benefit from having brake pads fitted which are lighter in weight, yet are designed to withstand the higher forces and temperatures produced when they need to stop quickly.

Nearly all vehicles on our roads today are fitted with what are called disc brakes all round – that means that they use a similar kind of brake pad to all other cars or vans.

How to extend the lifetime of your Brake Pads?

Using common sense, driving carefully, and anticipating the hazards on the road ahead are the best ways of doing this.
The earlier you can brake when you need to slow down or stop, the less pressure you will need to apply on your foot brake, and so the less pressure you put on your brake pads, and the more slowly they will wear.

Frequent, hard or emergency braking will always take a greater toll on the rubber compound of your brake pads and lead to the risk that you will need to replace the brake pads more often.

How much does a Brake Pad Replacement cost?

The cost of a brake pad replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your brake pad replaced by Clickmechanic, by selecting your car at the top of this page!