Service, Repairs & MOT

Brake pads and discs replacement in Thetford

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

  • Top-quality brakes
  • Price includes fitting
  • Maximum convenience

£172.64

Average price for this repair in Thetford 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 Thetford

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Thetford

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.

Brake pads and discs replacement

From £149**

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

Vehicle diagnostic check

£99

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 Thetford

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

Central Garage Lakenheath

5.0/5

Thank you for choosing Central Garage lakenheath. We are a family run, friendly garage based in Lakenheath, close to the Norfolk border (IP27 9EW). The garage itself was established in 1965 and we have been here for 10 years now. We have experience in all makes of car and all types of work on these. We also do motorcycles! We focus on you, the customer, to get the best solution for whatever problem your car is exhibiting at the lowest cost possible, it all helps!, while giving you the best experience we can. We are always available to discuss problems with you car, although between 8am and 6pm is the best times! We are looking forward to welcoming you to Central Garage Lakenheath - kettle is on!!
100 High St, Lakenheath, Brandon, IP279EW

Protyre Bury St Edmunds

4.9/5

Bury Tyre Centre - Team Protyre joined the Protyre network in 2019. The centre specialises in supplying and fitting tyres for cars, vans and 4x4s from all leading manufacturers, including Michelin, Pirelli, Falken, Sumitomo, Bridgestone and Continental. The team will be pleased to provide advice on the best tyres to meet your driving requirements.
Unit 13, Bunting Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP327BX

YDS AUTOMOTIVE

4.9/5

At YDS we offer General Maintenance and Servicing for all makes and models, while we specialise in the german vehicle industry we have the equipment, experience and knowledge to cater to any vehicle. Offering dealer level servicing at a fraction of the cost while still able to update digital and standard service records to preserve manufacturers warranty. Along side the every day stuff we offer all advanced and electrical diagnostics from running issues to audio problems we strive to get you that first time fix. And don't forget the fun stuff. At YDS we offer Varied packages with software and supporting performance hardware fully tailored to suit whatever you are behind the wheel of! Partnered with Performance companies and Payment Assist to make improving your car or van easier and more available than ever before!
Unit 5, Faraday Place, Thetford, IP243RG

Motorbitz

4.3/5

Welcome to Motor Bitz Based in Besthorpe near Attleborough we are a family run MOT/Service & Repair centre and can take care of all your motoring needs. Whether you are looking for an MOT, part worn tyres, servicing, engine diagnostic or perhaps a recovery service we can help. We can also take care of repairs and welding work. Our Team Roger: Roger has worked within the motor trade for 30 years and has a passion for classic fords and performance vehicles. We call him the 'grease monkey' as he is never happier than to be head to toe in oil. Roger carries out most of the heavy work including commercial, engine swaps, clutches and gearboxes. Simon: Simon is a qualified MOT tester, with a passion for classic and American vehicles. With his extensive experience of over 42 years in the motor trade industry - Simon is a real asset to the company. Customer relations is his speciality. Neil: Neil is a qualified MOT tester and is also a qualified HGV fitter. Neil has an interest in all vehicles, but his passion is in classic cars, bikes and commercials. Neil is the master of all things delicate often carrying out some of our more technical work and a great welder too!
Unit 3, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Attleborough, NR172LD

A & S Coachworks Limited, Bosch Car Service

4.0/5

will be completed at a later date
High Street, Ixworth, Bury St Edmunds, IP312HN

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.