YourMechanic — San Francisco, CA

Car Repair & Maintenance

 

Brake Pad Replacement

    Brake pads are the component in the braking system that provide the friction to slow your vehicle. Depending on your car’s brake system, it may use between 4 to 8 brake pads. When you step on the brake pedal, the master cylinder sends fluid under pressure to the brake calipers (which hold the brake pads). The caliper presses the brake pad against the brake rotor, causing friction that slows down the car. During normal usage of the brakes, brake pads wear out and become thinner - the brake pads will eventually wear out over time and need to be replaced. If the thickness of brake pads is less than 3mm, it is time to change the pads. Depending on where you drive (city driving tends to wear pads out quicker) brake pads usually last between 30,000 to 35,000 miles.

    Some vehicles (e.g., BMWs) are equipped with a low-pad-warning system. In these vehicles, you will also need to replace the brake sensors as part of the brake pad service.

    Our recommendation:

    Your mechanic should measure the thickness of brake pads every 12 to 15 months. Get your brake system inspected if the brake-warning light is on.

    What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Brake Pads?

    • Grinding, squealing or screeching noise when you apply brakes.
    • Brake pedal is lower than normal.
    • Brake or low-pad warning light is on.
    • Vibration in the steering wheel.

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    Price
    $12400
    Deposit
    $20.00
    Duration
    1 hour
    Availability
    As soon as Apr 21, 2024

    What does it include?

      • Brake pads replacement (front, rear, or both. Both adds one hour)
      • 50-point inspection
        • Service report
        • Optional: add brake system flush (adds 30 min)

        How it's done:

        • Inspect brake pads
        • Install new pads if thickness is less than 3mm
        • Inspect: rotors, calipers, hoses, and brake fluid condition
        • Perform a basic safety inspection
        • Test drive the vehicle

        Why is it important?

        Regular maintenance and replacement of your brake pads is a very important safety measure. If you drive your vehicle with worn-down brake pads, braking distances increase, you risk damage to the brake rotors (which are more expensive than brake pads), and most importantly, you put yourself and others at risk. Because the brake pads are essentially the direct component that actually slows the vehicle, they are very important to the overall safety of the vehicle. If you suspect that your brake pads may be worn, or are making noise, have the vehicle’s brake system inspected by a professional technician. Brake repair should be completed if the brake pads are less than 3mm thick to ensure safe operation of your car.

        Additional notes

        Keep in mind:

        • Brake pads are replaced in pairs during a brake service. This means if you choose front brake pads, both front wheels should get new brake pads. The same situation applies for rear wheels.

        This service is backed by YourMechanic's 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty.


        Service location

        At your address