How Much Does Brake Repair and Replacement Cost in the UK?

Depending on what parts of the brake system need to be replaced, you can expect a brake repair or replacement to cost anywhere from £100 to £500. Sometimes you may just need a brake fluid check and top up which can cost around £40.

It costs on average £99 to replace front brake pads, ranging from £75 to £175. It typically costs from £70 to £150 to replace rear brake pads, with an average cost of £95.

Your location can also be a key factor in determining the price of car brake repairs. For example, average hourly labour rates and demand in cities like London is around £50-£100 while in towns with lower demand, the labour rates can range from £35-£50. The type of mechanic, for example, a mobile mechanic vs a dealership garage technician can also affect the total cost of car brake repairs and replacements.

Average cost of a brake repair and replacement by location

A new set of front brake pads can cost between £130 and over £375, while the cost of a new set of rear brake discs can range between £125 and over £350.
There will be a difference in pricing for brake repair and replacement depending on the vehicle's make, model, and year. In addition to the part prices, the hourly labour charges vary throughout the UK, so the cost may also vary by location.

Average cost of a brake repair and replacement by manufacturer

How do you know if your brakes need repairing?

• Overall braking performance is affected
• Squealing or grinding noise when brakes are applied
• Brake warning light on
• Brake pedal becomes soft or spongy
• Vibrations felt when braking
• Stopping distance increases
• Car pulling to one side
  
  

Your car takes longer to stop

If this happens it is very likely that the brake pads or rear brake shoes, if fitted, have worn out or the brake fluid levels need checking.

You hear grinding or squealing when you brake

Vehicles will have either spring steel acoustic brake wear indicators that squeal or electronic wear sensors. Brakes can also squeal if the discs are corroded or worn or if the brake pad shims require lubrication.

Your brake pedal feels spongy

When applying the brake pedal, you find that it is “soft” and goes all the way down with no resistance which could indicate a brake fluid leak. A spongy or low brake pedal can also indicate that the brakes are out of adjustment or that the brake fluid requires changing.

Brake warning light on

If the brake pad or brake fluid low dashboard warning light is illuminated, it is an indication that there is something wrong with the brake system and needs immediate attention.

Car pulling to one side

A “sticking” brake calliper or brake pads that have worn out unevenly can cause the car to pull on the left or right side when you hit the brakes. This can also be caused by sticking brake pads often found on low annual mileage vehicles

Frequently asked questions about brake repair cost

Why would your brakes need to be replaced?

The most common reason for replacing brakes is when the pads wear down. Other reasons for replacing brakes can include:
- Worn-out brake discs
- Leaking brake fluid
- Damaged brake callipers
- Damaged brake lines

Why does my car squeak when I brake?

The most common reason for a car to squeak when braking is that the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Another possibility is that the brake discs are warped which can result in a squealing sound.

How often should you get your brakes looked at in a car?

Most carmakers recommend that brakes be inspected every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. They may not need replacing even after 50,000 miles in many cases but it’s always a good idea to inspect them regularly as they’re an important aspect to ensure overall vehicle safety.

What brake fluid should I use for my car?

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that is used to transfer force into pressure, and to amplify braking force. Each car braking system is designed to be compatible with a certain type of brake fluid which can be glycol or silicone-based. The most commonly used brake fluid types are DOT3 or DOT4 but the best thing to do is refer to the owner’s manual for the manufacturer's recommended brake fluid.

How much does a full brake job cost?

A brake job can entail replacing only the brake pads or replacing brake pads and brake discs or fixing the parking brake. If brake pads, discs and callipers all need to be replaced then you can expect the cost to be around £400-£500 per front or rear set. Of course, the exact cost will vary depending on the make and model of the car.

How long does a brake job take?

Depending on the severity of the issue, on average a brake job can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours.

Can I carry out a brake repair myself?

Brake-related repairs can be a complex task and require advanced auto repair knowledge and skills along with special tools and equipment. Additionally, they need expert and close attention to detail due to the safety risks involved.
Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend brake repairs are 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 upfront.

What else could be the problem if my brakes aren’t broken?

If you’re experiencing braking issues and have ruled it out then symptoms could point towards suspension issues or even steering problems. A qualified mechanic will be able to check and narrow down the source of the symptoms you’re facing.