Get discount on breakdown coverCar Breaking System Repair
Good brakes don’t just stop a car — they save lives.
A good car braking system is one of the most important safety features in any vehicle. It allows the driver to slow down or stop quickly and in a controlled way, helping to prevent accidents and protect lives. Whether in city traffic, on highways, or in bad weather, reliable brakes give the driver confidence and control. Effective brakes also improve overall vehicle performance. They help maintain stability during sudden stops, reduce stopping distance, and work together with systems like ABS and traction control to keep the car steady. Poor or worn brakes can lead to longer stopping distances, loss of control, and serious mechanical damage.
Regular maintenance of the braking system — including pads, discs, fluid, and lines — ensures the car remains safe, responsive, and roadworthy. In short, good brakes don’t just stop a car; they protect the driver, passengers, and everyone else on the road. All the different parts that need replacement, repair and service includes;
Brake Caliper Repair
Brake Disc Replacement
Brake Fluid Change
Brake Pads Replacement
Brake Hose Replacement
Brake Master Cylinder
Brake Drum Replacement
Brake Shoe Replacement
Handbrake Cable Repair
How can you tell if your brakes need repair?
- Overall braking performance is poor
- Squealing or grinding noise when you apply brakes
- Brake warning light on the Dashboard
- Brake pedal becomes soft or spongy
- Steering vibrates 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.
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.