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Brake Discs Replacement
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes, this can be done at your location
Typical Lead Time: 2 - 24 hours due to part availability
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
What do brake discs do?
Brake discs provide the surface for the brake pads to come into contact with in order to slow the motion of the wheel.
How does a brake disc work and what are the components?
A brake disc is usually either a solid mild steel disc that is mounted between the road wheel and the vehicle's wheel hub or two solid discs cast together with fins in between them to keep them cool under braking. These latter discs are known as vented discs. Some high end vehicles now use carbon or ceramic rather than mild steel as these are generally lighter and more robust - although a lot more expensive!
Some discs are manufactured with a groove pattern or have drilled holes in them, this aids cooling but the main reason is to allow the escape of the gasses produced by the friction between the disc and pads under heavy or prolonged braking.
When the brakes are applied, the two brake pads either side of the disc are forced into the disc surface and “clamp” on to it. The friction slows the speed in which the disc is rotating and thereby slows the vehicle.
Typical symptoms that require brake discs to be replaced.
- You experience vibration whilst braking.
- Noises under braking, especially grinding.
- The car starts to pull to one side under braking.
- 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.
What happens during a brake disc replacement?
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 pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Slacken the wheel nuts (please ensure you have your locking wheel nut key to hand, if you have them fitted!).
- Raise the vehicle and secure it on axle/chassis stands.
- Remove the wheel nuts and wheel.
- Undo the retaining bolts for the caliper as required.
- Remove the old pads and discs.
- Clean the components as far as possible.
- Fit the new pads and discs.
- Tighten everything back together again.
- Refit the wheel, lower the car and torque the wheel nuts correctly.
- Settle the brake pads into position whilst stationary, then take the vehicle for a brief road test to ensure everything is working as it should.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake pads and discs to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the OEM standard brake pads and discs
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Brake pads replacement - front (all)
Brake pads replacement - rear (all)
Brake discs and pads replacement - front (both)
Brake discs and pads replacement - rear (both)
Premium brake upgrade (front and rear discs and pads)*
How much does a brake disc replacement cost?
The cost of a brake disc's and pads replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting https://www.clickmechanic.com/jobs/brake-disc-replacement
*subject to availability
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the brake discs do not require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.
My brake pads have only just been changed, can you re-use them?
Unequivocally no! The brake pads will have worn to the wear pattern of the old discs. If these pads were fitted to new, flat surfaced discs, the pad contact area would be severely reduced and that could be potentially lethal. Therefore, new pads are always fitted to new discs.
Associated repairs carried out by ClickMechanic.
Brake pads replacement - front (both)
Brake pads replacement - rear (both)
Brake caliper replacement - front (driver side)
Brake caliper replacement - front (passenger side)
Brake caliper replacement - rear (driver side)
Brake caliper replacement - rear (passenger side)
Brake pipe replacement - front (driver side)
Brake pipe replacement - front (passenger side)
Brake pipe replacement - rear (driver side)
Brake pipe replacement - rear (passenger side)
Brake hose replacement - front (driver side)
Brake hose replacement - front (passenger side)
Brake hose replacement - rear (driver side)
Brake hose replacement - rear (passenger side)
Bleed Hydraulic brake system
Brake master cylinder replacement