Service, Repairs & MOT

Brake pads and discs replacement in Truro

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

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

£173.31

Average price for this repair in Truro 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 Truro

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Truro

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 Truro

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

P C Tonkin & Son Ltd

5.0/5

1912 As Cornwall’s longest establish car dealership, here at PC Tonkin & Son we are proud of our 110 year history which has spanned four generations of the Tonkin family. Let us tell you more….. Like any business, ours started from humble beginnings back in 1912. In the early years of the business, Preston Tonkin (26 in 1912) worked from his home at Wesley Terrace in Bugle. His business started repairing motor cycles and bicycles. At the same time, he also worked within the local clay industry. As his reputation grew, Preston moved to work from premises at Roche Road and also began selling motor cycles, becoming an agent for manufacturers including Enfield, B.S.A. and Sunbeam. In 1924 he acquired the Austin franchise, the beginning of a business relationship with the marquee that would last for almost half a century.
77 Fore Street, Bugle, St. Austell, PL268PD

M R Autos

5.0/5

We have been established for over 7 years and in that time have built up a great reputation. We pride ourselves with great customer care, honesty and reliability whilst still low and competitive pricing. We go out of our way to help out our customers and make sure they go away happy with the services we have provided them, Members of the good garage scheme check out our excellent reviews.
Unit 20G Long Rock Ind Est, Penzance, TR208HX

Threemilestone Garage

4.8/5

Here at Threemilestone Garage we aim to give our customers the best possible service. We have a reception/waiting area with free tea, coffee, hot chocolate, a water machine and Wi-Fi at your disposal. We have a full MOT and repair station. We also now have a full body repair and spray shop.
3C Threemilestone Ind Est, Threemilestone, Truro, TR49LD

A30 Auto Service Centre

4.7/5

RAC Approved Car and Van specialist Service Centre with over 75 years of experience, We also offer MOT, Servicing, and light repair for all other vehicle types. Our highly skilled technicians are dedicated to ensuring your vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the best in automotive care. SERVING ALL AREAS OF CORNWALL INCLUDING ST AUSTELL, BODMIN, WADEBRIDGE, TRURO & VICTORIA CONTACT US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT AND EXPERIENCE THE A30 AUTO SERVICE CENTRE DIFFERENCE.
Unit 4B Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria, St Austell, PL268LX

Xpress Garage & Mot Centre Falmouth

3.7/5

Here at Xpress Garage is the largest independent garage, tyre specialist, and premiere car care centre in Falmouth / Penryn. We are experts in automotive repair including Tyres, Brakes, MOT's, Servicing, Clutches Cambelts, Electrical advanced Diagnostics Air-con, 3d computerised wheel alignment, puncture repairs and full workshop facilities. We're open 6 days a week, from 8.15 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Friday, and 8.15 am to 2 pm on Saturdays. We have a comfortable customer waiting area with FREE hot drinks, TV superfast wifi, and knowledgeable friendly staff. We also offer FREE courtesy cars, and a FREE drop off and pick up service to your home or place of work. We are also RAC, AA certified garage with Motorcodes, RMI & Trust my garage Approved Repair Centre, in Falmouth/Penryn. ISO 9001 Accredited
Xpress Garage And Tyre Centre, Units 3-4 Tregoniggie Industrial Estate, Falmouth, TR11 4SN

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.