Service, Repairs & MOT

Brake pads and discs replacement in Exeter

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

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

£182.16

Average price for this repair in Exeter 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 Exeter

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Exeter

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 Exeter

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

F&M Autocare

5.0/5

F&M Autocare is newly established business with over 50 years of experience in the motor trade. Dave, Paul & Dan can guarantee your car is in the right hands and will be back on the road in no time. We offer a free courtesy car or collection and delivery from home or your place of work. Covering all aspects of automotive repairs including servicing, timing belt replacement, clutches, brake inspection and Aircon Servicing. We also undertake all bodywork repairs from small dents to accident damage. Using only OE quality parts with all our work guaranteed you can relax and let us deal with the stress of fixing your vehicle.
Unit 1 South View Industrial Estate, Willand, Cullompton, EX152QW

Hardacres Garage.

4.9/5

Hardacres Garage is a family owned and operated business in the heart of Mid Devon serving the local community of Tiverton and the surrounding area. We pride ourselves in being open and honest. Our work is carried out by qualified mechanics who specialise in BMW, Land Rover and Isuzu's. All types of work is carried out including fabrication and welding, servicing and repairs of all makes of Cars Vans and 4x4s.
29-31 Leat Street, Tiverton, EX165LG

Downs Motors

4.9/5

Downs Motors is an independent family run Garage in Ottery St Mary, Devon. In a nutshell, this is what we can do for you: MOT/ Repairs Work Fault testing and diagnostics using our high-tech testing equipment. We can service all makes and models of car, in line with manufacturer recommendations or even basic oil services. Exhausts, tyres and brakes. Cam belt, Aux Belt and Water Pump replacement. And much more..
Mill Street, Ottery Saint Mary, EX111AB

Foxhayes Garage

4.1/5

Established in 1981 based in Exeter, Foxhayes garage is a family owned and run business and between our team of highly trained technicians/mechanics have over 100 years of combined experience working on motor vehicles of all makes and models. We have all of the latest diagnostic equipment and up to date modern vehicle ramps, so we are well equipped to pinpoint diagnose and then repair any issues your vehicle may have. We also offer specialty carbon cleaning which can have several benefits for your vehicle including improved exhaust emissions, improved engine efficiency, significantly improved compression, prolonged engine life and increased performance, improved mpg, cut emissions and more. All labour and parts we provide will also be covered by a 12-month warranty to give you peace of mind. We look forward to hearing from you and for more information on the full range of services we provide please visit our website: WWW.FOXHAYESCARSALES.CO.UK
127 Exwick Rd, Exeter, EX4 2BH

MillTop Motors

4.0/5

Are you looking for a team of trustworthy, fully qualified, and experienced mechanics? Then Milltop Motors are the ones you can trust most. With over 10 years’ experience in the local area, we have built on our reputation of being a friendly, affordable, and trusted team of professionals. From vehicle performance upgrades to bespoke fabrication, we are certainly not limited to what we can do for you. So, if your vehicle is long overdue some well-deserved upgrades and servicing, be sure to give us a call. www.milltopmotors.com
Unit 1 Bond House Lane, Whitestone, EX42HF

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.