Service, Repairs & MOT

Brake pads and discs replacement in Bristol

Book an RAC Mobile Mechanic and we’ll come to you at home or work.

  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

£402.37

Average price for this repair in Bristol in the last 30 days^

Trustpilot rating for all RAC Mobile Mechanics.

Why choose the RAC for brake pads and discs replacement?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running.

Plus, with RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage when you need a repair. We’ll come to you, at your home or work.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick in Bristol

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Bristol

At the RAC, we’ve got over 125 years’ experience in offering complete peace of mind to our members. We’re best known for our breakdown service. And now – our new RAC Mobile Mechanics are here to help make every day motoring easier. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

Book a brake pads and discs replacement

If your brakes are making noise or you’re noticing reduced stopping power, it’s likely time to replace your brake pads or discs. Our mobile mechanics can come to you at home or work to replace them, all without the hassle of getting to a garage!

We use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standard parts, which means every new part will be the same standard and same quality as the original part it replaced.
Our mobile mechanics are friendly, honest, and backed by the RAC.
Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic running a vehicle diagnostic check

Book a diagnostic

For when you know something isn’t right, but you’re not sure what – our mobile mechanics are here to help.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors
If we detect any issues, we'll talk through what needs to be repaired. We’ll give you a no-obligation quote to fix it on the spot, if we can. Or we’ll recommend a local RAC Approved Garage, and give you a full error report to take there.

And it’s not just brake pads and discs replacement that we can do in Bristol

Mobile mechanics bring the garage to you, saving you the hassle of getting your car to a garage. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

T.D Garage Services

4.5/5

At TD Garage Services Ltd, we take care of all car makes and models. Whether you have a Ford, a Fiat, a Honda or a Hyundai, you can trust us to do a quality job. We are well known as a reliable local garage that provides a range of services including car repairs, servicing as well as MOT testing.
Unit 20, Windmill Farm Business Centre, Bristol, BS34DB

PC Motors.

4.4/5

Established in 1980, our main workshop is located in the Horfield area of Bristol. We have a thirty year heritage of being Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) specialists. As such we are highly experienced in the repair, parts replacement and servicing of the entire range of VAG makes and models. Our many years of expertise, working on these respected brands, makes us the leading independent specialists for VAG vehicles in the Bristol area. We are a fully certified RAC Approved Garage Network member and can also carry out any warranty work. Our team of trained, qualified, reliable and trustworthy technicians and mechanics have secured solid customer and key stakeholder relationships over our 30 year heritage. Confidence in our service quality, advice integrity and competitive pricing has resulted in a significant number of our customers staying loyal to us for over ten years.
Unit 1, Elm Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS78RJ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Bristol

4.2/5

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!
In-N-Out Autocentres, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS10 7UD

Bond Motor Services

4.2/5

Welcome to Bond Motor Services, a modern-thinking Motor Dealership and Repair Centre with a focus on traditional values and Service. We offer competitive Vehicle Servicing, Mechanical Repairs, Tyre Services and MOTs. Bond motor Services undertake the servicing and repair of all makes and models of cars and vans. Established for more than 15 years, proprietor expects nothing but the best from his team of qualified Technicians, and will ensure that both you and your car receive the very best of service. From your first contact you can expect friendly and open discussion about your vehicle and any work required, at an agreed and competitive price- This level of service and communication will continue, keeping you fully informed right up to the point when your vehicle is ready for collection.
50 The High Street, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 4AJ

Westerleigh Car Centre Ltd

4.0/5

The company has been in business since 1989 in Westerleigh Bristol,and operating from the site for 15 years.We moved to Downend Bristol in 2004, purchasing our own premises offering a larger workshop and showroom for vehicle sales. The company offers high quality services on today modern vehicles. We have become one of the largest, and best equipped independent garages in Bristol.Our workshop offers 7 ramps including two MOT Bays for class seven,class five,and class 4 MOT Testing,MOT Tests are carried out on two ATL test lanes at our premises.We are able to carry out mot tests on cars and light commercials Vans up to 3500 kg,Camper Vans,Motor Homes up to 5000 KG. Mini Buses,4-4s,We also have a full alignment lift for all your Geometry requirements, and some of the best equipment available to the garage industry.We are PRO-CUTS premier garage for brake disc skimming in Bristol. We aim to provide top quality service and commitment to our customers, whether it be fleet or private vehicles, The garage is a member of the RMI and is a fully approved Trust my Garage member,The garage is a fully approved Delphi Diesel and Fuel injection specialist, We have invested in the latest Delphi Software and equipment.We are able to test Diesel pumps and Injectors for correct operation using our equipment.We are able to deal with pump repairs in house, or we can offer a Delphi Service exchange pump normally within 24 hours.We are also able to send your pump to Delphi for repair, if a service exchange unit is not available of the shelf,The company has been appointed a fully approved, Unipart Diesel and Fuel Injection specialist,We are able to deal with all makes and models of cars and light commercials.All work is guaranteed to be of the highest possible standard and comes with a 6 month or 6000 miles Labour Warranty. All parts carry a minimum 12 Months or 12000 miles Warranty. All Unipart parts fitted have a nationwide warranty through the network of Unipart Service Centres. We carry a range of quality used vehicles. All vehicles have a new mot (if less than six months remaining) and have three months warranty. Cars also have a full pre-delivery inspection before leaving the workshop.Opening times for workshops,Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:30pm Saturday 8:00am to 12:00pm Opening times for Vehicle Sales Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5.30pm Saturday 8:00am to 4:00pm.
84 Downend Road, Downend, BS16 5UE

Frequently asked questions on brake pads

Brake pads typically need replacing every 20,000 to 70,000 miles, but this depends on your driving habits and the type of brake pads you use. Regular inspections can help determine the right time for replacement.

Yes, if you have the necessary tools and mechanical knowledge, you can replace brake pads yourself. However, unless you’re a trained mechanic, it’s safer and more efficient to entrust the work to a trained professional.

Worn brake pads often cause squealing or grinding noises, reduced braking performance, and vibrations when braking. Visual inspections can also reveal thin brake pads that need replacing.

You may need new brake discs if you experience vibrations when braking, see grooves or score marks on the disc, or notice a longer stopping distance. A professional inspection can confirm if the brake discs need replacing.

Brake discs last longer than brake pads and typically need replacing every 50,000 to 70,000 miles. The exact lifespan depends on driving conditions and habits.

To check your brake pads yourself:

  1. Look through the wheel spokes: You should see the brake pad pressed against the brake disc.
  2. Measure the thickness: If the pad is less than 3mm (about 0.12 in) thick, it needs replacing.
  3. Listen for noises: Squealing or grinding noises indicate worn pads.

If you spot anything unusual or out of the ordinary, make sure you speak to a mechanic as soon as possible.

Brake fade occurs when the braking system overheats and loses its ability to generate friction. This can happen after continuous hard braking, such as driving down a steep hill. A brake fade reduces braking performance and can be dangerous.

Replacing both brake pads and discs can cost between £200 and £500 per axle, depending on the vehicle and type of parts used. Get multiple quotes to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Driving with worn brake pads can compromise your safety and damage other braking components in your vehicle. It is best to replace them as soon as you notice they are worn.

Yes, there are several types of brake pads:

  • Ceramic brake pads: Known for being quiet and producing less dust.
  • Semi-metallic brake pads: Durable and effective but can be noisy.
  • Organic brake pads: Made from non-metallic materials, they are quieter but wear out faster.

Each type has its pros and cons, so choose based on your driving needs.

Brake pads are components that press against the brake discs (rotors) to create friction and slow the car. Brake discs are the rotors attached to the wheels that the brake pads clamp onto. Both are essential for effective braking.

To extend the life of your brake pads:

  • Drive smoothly: Avoid hard braking whenever possible.
  • Maintain a safe distance: This reduces the need for sudden stops.
  • Regular inspections: Check your brake pads regularly to catch wear early. Inspection should form part of your yearly service.

A brake pad replacement typically takes about 1 to 2 hours per axle, depending on the vehicle and the mechanic's experience. If additional repairs are needed, it might take longer.

Yes, you can upgrade to high-performance brake pads for better braking performance. Consider options like ceramic or semi-metallic pads if you need improved durability and stopping power.

If the brake warning light comes on, it usually indicates that your brake pads are worn or there is another issue with the braking system. To avoid progressive damage to your vehicle, get your brakes checked out by a professional as soon as you can.

Brakes can squeal for several reasons:

  • Worn brake pads: Low pads can cause squealing.
  • Glazed pads: Overheating can glaze the pads and cause noise.
  • Dust and debris: Accumulation can cause squealing.

Regular maintenance and timely replacements can prevent squealing.

A brake pad sensor is a small device that alerts you when your brake pads are worn and need replacing. It activates the brake warning light on the dashboard when the pads reach a certain wear level.

Yes, a mobile mechanic can replace your brake pads at your home or workplace. This service offers convenience and ensures your brakes are in good condition without needing to visit a garage.

Yes, driving with worn brake pads can damage other parts of your vehicle, such as the brake discs and calipers. This can lead to more expensive repairs, so it’s best to have any issues seen to as soon as you notice them.

Signs that your brake discs need replacing include vibrations when braking, grooves, or score marks on the disc, and a longer stopping distance. A professional inspection can confirm if the discs need replacement.

If your car judders when braking, it could indicate warped brake discs or unevenly worn brake pads. Have your braking system inspected and repaired by a professional.

Brake pads are usually considered a wear-and-tear item and probably won’t be covered under standard warranties. However, some premium brake pads come with a limited warranty, so it’s worth checking the details when you buy.

  • OEM brake pads: Made by the vehicle manufacturer or an approved supplier. They match the original specifications.
  • Aftermarket brake pads: Made by third-party manufacturers. They can offer a wider range of options but vary in quality.

Both options have their pros and cons. Talk to a mechanic to choose the best for your needs.