Brakes

If you have a concern, it's simply not worth taking a risk.

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Vehicle Brakes

Often neglected, your braking system is one of the most important safety features to vehicle maintenance and should not under any circumstances be ignored, it should be checked regularly and be kept in good working order.

How do I know if my brakes need maintenance?

With the exception of brake fluid which is recommended changing every 2 years, there isn't a set interval or timepoint in which your brakes need replacing as there are many factors that influence brake system wear and tear, depending on your driving style and conditions.

Grinding

A metallic noise when the brake pedal is applied, the brake pads are substantially worn down to the metal, creating metal on metal friction with the brake discs, damaging the brake disc.

Squeaks

Often the symptom of a sticking brake calliper, your brakes are likely semi-applied, the pads and discs trying to slow you down unnecessarily without your action.

Judder or shake

From the steering brake pedal when applied, which could be a sign your brake discs have become heat warped and distorted, this uneven surface prevents a flat contact with brake pad causing a wobble. This can cause the vehicle to pull to one side under breaking.

Limp, spongey or soft Pedal

Usually an indication your brake fluid isn't doing its job, should the pedal travel all the way to the floor or become limp and ineffective, you likely have a major braking issue such as with your master cylinder, seek immediate inspection.

Wear indicator or dash light

Some vehicles have wear indicators which inform you when the pads are running low, your brake fluid needs changing, or is low indicator fluid loss perhaps through a hose or brake line, do not ignore these messages.

Ineffective/high handbrake

Commonly a sign your handbrake needs adjusting or the cable has stretched with operation, excess travel can be an MOT failure.

Brake Fluid Interval

Renewing your brake fluid every 2 years is the recommended change interval, being hydroscopic over time your brake fluid can absorb moisture which reduced the effectiveness of the brake fluid assisting in you stopping. Moisture content is check

Our peace of mind brake check

We take safety very seriously which is why we offer a comprehensive brake check for reassurance, our team of skilled technicians know brakes inside and out, giving you the confidence in our work and ability to inspect, report and repair such a safety critical element of your vehicle.

Our inspection includes a video health check, a visual assessment of your complete braking system, including

Measurements of your brake pads, discs or drums, informing you of the wear and suspected longevity.
Wheel cylinder and callipers for corrosion, signs of overheating and function
Brake system hoses and pipes for leaks
Handbrake condition and operation
Brake fluid quality for moisture content and effectiveness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here's some answers to the most frequently asked questions by our customers

How long do brakes last?

This really depends on how the vehicle is driven. We have seen some brake pads wear out in as little as 20,000 miles, while others can last over 100,000 miles. There is no set answer. On average, though, we normally expect brake pads to last around 25,000 miles. Discs sometimes need to be changed at the same time as the pads, while other times you can get two sets of brake pads from one set of discs. This also depends on the vehicle’s usage and the level of corrosion on the discs. If you would like your brakes checked and measured, please get in touch with our friendly service team.

My brakes are often noisy in the morning, is there a reason why?

This is simple: corrosion. The majority of brake discs on vehicles are made from steel. When steel comes into contact with water, a layer of corrosion forms—often overnight. Once the vehicle is driven and the brakes are applied, the pads will clean off the corrosion, leaving a shiny, smooth, and quiet surface again. If the noise doesn’t disappear after a few stops, please bring your vehicle to our friendly service team for a check, as there may be an underlying issue.

How can I stop the brakes going rusty?

There is very little you can do about this, as in the UK we often have rain or damp nights. Dry storing the vehicle or covering the wheels when it’s parked can help, but we acknowledge that this isn’t a practical solution for most people.

My rear brakes look different to the front, do you know why?

Chances are this is because your vehicle has drum brakes on the rear. Drum brakes are an older style of braking system, so you rarely see them on the front axles. On many vehicles, the rear brakes don’t contribute a huge amount of stopping power, so drums are efficient enough. Drum brakes also have the added benefit of being less prone to corrosion when the vehicle is parked.

My brakes feel spongy, is that a problem?

Yes, you definitely don’t want a spongy brake pedal. Spongy brakes reduce braking performance, creating a serious safety risk. This could be a simple fix, such as a brake fluid change to remove air from the system, or it could be more involved, such as an issue with the ABS pump. Either way, if you notice a spongy pedal, please have it checked for your safety.

My brakes are making a rough noise when brake, what could the issue be?

This could be a simple case of corrosion build-up, which will often clear on its own. However, don’t risk confusing this with worn-out pads, where the pads and discs are metal-to-metal. This issue can make a very similar noise to corrosion. If you’re not sure, we highly recommend having your brakes checked by our friendly service team—give us a call.