Service, Repairs & MOT

Brake pads and discs replacement in Colchester

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

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

£210.13

Average price for this repair in Colchester 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 Colchester

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Colchester

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 Colchester

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

88 Motors and MOT Repairs

5.0/5

For all your vehicle needs in Colchester, Essex from servicing, maintenance & repair to tyres , brakes, clutches and MOT from skilled mechanics in our garage workshop. We're here to help.
Unit 15 Davey Close, Colchester, CO12XL

All Trans Autos Ltd, Bosch Car Service

5.0/5

All Trans Autos was started in August 1980 by Jill and Richard. We employed our first member of staff, Tony, in 1984 and we are proud that he is still in our employment. Over the past 34 years All Trans Autos has grown and today has 15 employees, ranging from fully qualified technicians to part time office staff. Each one is a valued member of the team and provides the excellent customer service for which the company is renowned. All Trans Autos prides itself on its fantastic training program. Even after 25 years Tony is still attending training to keep up to speed with the fast moving technology in today’s cars. We have trained four apprentices over the period and currently have our fifth apprentice who is in his first year of training. The husband and wife team of Jill and Richard provides an excellent atmosphere. They work along side their staff, giving the garage that family feel. Their children all help within the company, inputting their skills where required, although only one of them works full time, as the company’s fleet manager. In 2006 All Trans Autos moved to its present location – the same year in which we became a Bosch Car Service centre. In order to become a BCS certain criteria have to be met. To read more about this see our Bosch page. Today All Trans Autos is one of the largest independent garages in Colchester. We offer unlimited expertise and are able to deal with most makes to dealer level. We operate to standards beyond those that are expected even by Bosch, and we won their quality award in our first year. We were shortlisted down to the last three in the Independent Garage of the Year Award in 2008.
Unit 7 Moss Road, Stanway, Colchester, CO30LE

Great Horkesley Garage

5.0/5

First established in 1994, we have decades worth of experience to tackle anything you challenge us with! We are a very successful, family run business that provides MOT, servicing, fuel sales and a shop for everyday essentials. Our mechanics are fully qualified and committed to providing a high quality service at reasonable prices on all makes and models of cars and vans.
The Causeway, Great Horkesley, CO64EJ

Richardsons Colchester

4.8/5

Established in 1966 we are one of the South East's leading vehicle repair centres. We have a team of highly trained ATA staff and we are a BSI approved repair centre so you can ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly. We carry our vehicle servicing and repairs at very competitive prices but still follow the exact schedule recommended by the manufacturer and your warranty is NOT compromised regardless of the age of the vehicle. We also fit parking sensors, tyres, batteries, in fact we can undertake almost any of your car needs. We have alos recently been certified as a Which Trusted Trader which the company has been audited on our ability to provide customers with a honest service quality and cost standard. See for yourself by visiting www.grahamrichardsons.co.uk
Grange Way, Colchester, CO28HG

Alpha MOT Centre

4.5/5

Welcome to Alpha MOT Centre – your premier destination for MOT testing, servicing, tyre replacements, brake repairs, battery services, and diagnostics in Colchester. Our expert team is dedicated to providing top-quality automotive maintenance and repair services to keep your vehicle in peak condition. From routine MOT checks to comprehensive servicing and repairs, we use advanced diagnostic tools and high-quality parts to ensure your vehicle performs at its best. Trust Alpha MOT Centre for reliable, professional service that keeps you safe on the road.
Unit K, Chandlers Row, Colchester, CO12HG

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.