Brake Pads and Discs Replacement Cost in the UK

Written by Petro Olekhnovych, mobile mechanic in Aylesham, Kent

There is no single brake pads and discs cost, because the price depends on your car, the parts you choose, whether you need discs as well as pads, and the labour rate. The biggest single factor is usually whether the discs are still within their wear limit, because pads alone cost far less than pads and discs together. We charge £30-£50 per hour labour plus parts, and we agree the price with you on WhatsApp before any work starts.

Do you need pads, discs or both?

Pads wear faster than discs. The RAC says many drivers find their pads last somewhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, while discs can last up to 80,000 miles. Your own figures will depend on how and where you drive.

So you will often replace pads on their own, and only replace discs every second or third pad change. The way to know is to measure the disc.

Every disc has a minimum thickness set by the manufacturer. Brake maker HELLA explains that this figure is stamped on the outer edge of the disc or on its centre section, often marked “MIN TH”. Once the disc reaches or goes below that figure, it must be replaced. HELLA also advises only fitting new pads if the discs are still above their minimum thickness.

Discs can also need replacing if they are badly lipped, scored or warped. We cover that in more detail in our post on whether lipped brake discs need replacing.

Why brake jobs are done in pairs

Brakes are always replaced across an axle, never on one wheel. The RAC says pads should be changed in sets, for example both front wheels together and both rear wheels together. HELLA says to always replace brake discs in pairs.

This keeps the braking even on both sides, so the car does not pull when you brake. It also means a quote is normally for “front pads”, “rear pads and discs” and so on, rather than one corner.

The RAC notes that front pads usually wear faster than rear pads, because the front brakes do more of the work. It is common to need fronts before rears.

What affects the cost

Here is what moves the price up or down:

• Your make and model. Larger, heavier or performance cars usually have bigger brakes and dearer parts.
• Pads only, or pads and discs. Discs add parts cost and some extra labour time.
• Front, rear or both axles. Two axles is roughly double the work of one.
• Parts quality and pad material. Different brands and grades of parts come at different prices.
• Seized or corroded parts. Old sliders, bolts or discs that are stuck on can add time.
• Labour rate. Ours is £30-£50 per hour, depending on the job and its difficulty.

Because every car is different, we do not quote fixed prices for brake jobs online. Send us your registration or make and model and we will tell you what it needs and what it will cost before we start.

Signs your brakes need doing

Common signs that pads or discs are worn include:

• A brake pad warning light on the dashboard (not every car has one).
• Squealing or screeching when braking.
• A grinding or scraping noise.
• The car pulling to one side, a vibration through the pedal, or longer stopping distances.

The RAC says there should be at least 3mm of pad material visible, and that pads should be replaced when they reach 3mm. You can read more in our guide to brake pad warning signs.

Safety first: if you hear grinding, the RAC advises not driving the car and getting the brakes checked as soon as possible. Grinding suggests the pads are fully worn, and worn-out pads can damage the discs. Stop driving and get it looked at. See our post on grinding brakes for more.

Brakes and the MOT

Worn brakes are a common MOT problem. In the DVSA’s MOT inspection manual, a pad worn down to its wear indicator is a major defect. A pad worn below 1.5mm is a dangerous defect. Pads contaminated with oil or grease are also a major defect.

For discs, a disc that is “significantly and obviously worn” is a major defect. A disc that is insecure, fractured or otherwise likely to fail is dangerous. Interestingly, the manual says an illuminated brake wear warning light on its own is not a reason for failure.

Having your brakes checked a few weeks before the MOT gives you time to sort them on your terms. A car service checklist is a good way to see what else to look at while the wheels are off.

How we can help

We are a mobile mechanic, so we come to your home or workplace. We cover Aylesham, Canterbury, Dover, Deal, Walmer, Sandwich, Ash, Eastry, Folkestone, Wingham and the villages around them. See the full list on our areas we cover page.

We replace brake pads and brake discs on your driveway. We measure the discs first, so you only pay for discs if they actually need replacing. Labour is £30-£50 per hour depending on the job, parts are extra, and the price is agreed on WhatsApp before we start.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to replace discs every time I change pads?
No. If the discs are above the minimum thickness stamped on them and in good condition, new pads can go on the old discs. If they are at or below the limit, they must be replaced.

Can I replace the pads on just one wheel?
No. Pads and discs are replaced in pairs across the same axle, so both sides brake evenly.

Is it cheaper to replace pads before they damage the discs?
Usually, yes. Pads worn right down can damage the discs, which can turn a pads-only job into pads and discs.

How long do brake pads last?
It varies a lot. The RAC says many drivers get between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but driving style, routes and the car’s weight all make a difference.

Need help? Send a WhatsApp to 07563 350335 with your car’s make and model and we’ll come to you.

Sources

• MOT inspection manual: brakes, sections 1.1.13 and 1.1.14 (GOV.UK)
• Brake pads: when to replace them (RAC)
• Testing the minimum thickness of a brake disc (HELLA)