Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Brakes are vital for your vehicle’s safety, and replacing a brake disc can cost around £250 in the UK.

Bumpy ride? If you notice changes in braking performance or unusual noises, have them inspected and, if necessary, replaced by a mechanic. 

This article explains everything UK drivers need to know about brake pad replacement costs, so you can be ready for your repair.

How much do replacement brake pads cost? 

The average cost of replacement brake pads in the UK is £250, but this can go up to £500.

Replacement costs vary by car make, model, location, and labour. We’ll detail these factors and provide estimates below.

 to split the cost into interest-free monthly repayments.

Brake pad replacement costs per vehicle type

The brake pad replacement cost changes depending on the type of vehicle you have. Here are some estimates per car type.

Brake pad and disc replacement cost by UK location

Where you live can affect the price you’ll pay for a brake pad and disc replacement. Here’s the average cost per UK region, with prices generally higher in London and the South East and lower in northern regions.

Cost of brake pads vs cost of brake pads and discs

Replacing only your brake pads is cheaper because it involves less labour and fewer parts. 

In contrast, brake discs are more expensive components, and fitting them takes extra time as the mechanic must remove the old discs, fit the new ones, and then install new pads. 

This is why replacing both pads and discs costs more than pads alone. See estimated costs in the table below.

Brake pads vs discs - what’s the difference?

Brake pads and brake discs work together to stop your car. 

press against the rotating brake discs to create friction, slowing the car down. The pads are made of friction material and wear out over time, so they need regular replacement. 

, which provide the surface for friction, are usually made of cast iron or carbon composite. They are more durable and costly to replace than brake pads.

Usually, you only need a brake pad replacement. 

Should you replace brake discs and pads at the same time?

While not always essential, replacing brake discs and pads together is recommended for best braking performance and system longevity. Replacing only one can cause uneven wear and reduce efficiency. 

Although upfront costs are higher, doing both at once can save money by avoiding repeated visits to the mechanic.

Changing just the brake pads costs around £170. 

This is because changing the brake pads on a vehicle involves less labour and fewer new parts than both discs and pads. 

It also significantly depends on what type of car you drive; performance and ultra-luxury cars typically have larger brakes, which cost more to replace. 

The average brake pad will need replacing after 30,000 - 50,000 miles. 

If you live in an area with a lot of slow-moving traffic or many hills, your brakes will likely be used frequently, so you may want to get them checked often. 

How can you tell your brake pads need replacing? 

Unlike tyres, brake pads are hidden behind the wheels and inside the calliper, so it can be difficult to know exactly when they need replacing. 

Your brakes are one of your car’s most important safety features, so it’s worth knowing how to spot when the pads might be wearing out. 

If you're ever unsure, it’s best to call a mobile mechanic or visit a local garage for a professional inspection.

Yes, it’s okay to replace just the brake pads and not the discs.

Because the brake pad is consumable, the disc is generally protected from wear. Many sources say that while brake pads should last 30,000 miles, brake discs should last significantly longer.

As long as the discs aren't excessively worn and you haven’t let the pads wear down to the steel and damaged the discs, you should only need to replace the pads.

How long does it take to change brake pads?

It takes around an hour for a professional to change your brake pads. This may take longer if the discs also need replacing or if your vehicle has a more complex braking system.

No, you shouldn’t drive with worn-out brake pads.

As soon as you know your brake pads need replacing, you should drive only as far as your local mechanic.

Not only is it dangerous, but it could also lead to a £100 fine and three points per fault. If both your front and rear brakes are faulty, that’s at least £400 and 12 points.

Yes, worn or damaged brake discs can cause an MOT failure. 

Discs below the manufacturer’s minimum thickness are a major defect, while loose or cracked discs are dangerous defects, preventing the vehicle from being driven until repaired.

Researching how much replacement brake pads and discs cost is essential for all car owners because prices can vary depending on several factors. You don’t want to get caught out by a surprise fee!

It’s wise to shop around at different garages to compare quotes. Remember that repairing your brakes is a vital investment in both your car and your safety so do not delay it.

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

How Much Replacement Brake Pads Discs Cost - UK Price Guide

¿Cuánto cuestan las pastillas de freno de repuesto?

Wie viel kostet der Austausch von Bremsbelägen? 

It’s pretty normal for drivers to continue driving with dashboard warning lights on. The fear of large repair bills is enough to put many drivers off taking their vehicles to a garage. 

But failing to take action when your car warns you of a problem can be a costly and sometimes dangerous decision. 

In this guide, we examine what dashboard lights mean and what to do if they pop up. No more ignoring that check engine light symbol! Scroll down to get started. 

The Check Engine Light or Engine Management Light links to the Engine Control Unit and is displayed if there is a problem with your engine’s performance. Depending on how urgent the warning is, the light can illuminate in different colours.

Here’s a quick overview of each colour: 

The Engine Management Light and Engine Control Unit cover a variety of sensors all over the vehicle. This makes identifying the problem difficult. Here are some common causes of the Check Engine Manage Light: 

What should you do if the check engine light comes on?

If the check engine light comes on, note the colour of the light. If it is an orange or amber colour and you feel the car is performing as it should, you can continue your journey, but make sure you book in with a garage as soon as possible. If the check engine light is red, you should find a safe place to stop and contact a 

 service. It is not recommended you continue your journey. 

Don't panic about the possibility of repairs, as 

 can help with 0% interest monthly instalments. 

. The ABS prevents your vehicle from skidding by quickly releasing and applying the brakes on the wheel. 

If the ABS light comes on, your brakes may still work, but the ABS might not engage, which may be a problem if you need to make an emergency stop. 

If the ABS and brake system lights are on at the same time, then your vehicle is unsafe to drive. Also, if the ABS light is illuminated, you should drive carefully and 

 in with a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 

 is here to help with car repair costs. Split the cost of your car repair in interest-free monthly instalments. 

If the battery light on your car illuminates and stays on, this indicates there is a problem with the 

. There are three reasons this could happen: 

This is the most common reason. Over time, the terminals on the battery can erode, or the cables can become unplugged or damaged. If there is damage, the battery won’t be able to hold charge from the alternator. Your battery may need replacing. 

The alternator creates the electrical charge stored in your battery. It powers the headlights, radio, heater, and electric windows. If the alternator fails, no electricity will be generated, and your car will eventually lose power and stop. 

 belt can be a severe problem, as the belt controls not only the alternator but also the coolant pump and power steering. If the battery light stays on, the engine becomes hot, or you find it hard to steer, you may have a problem with the alternator. 

What should I do if the battery light appears?

You should turn off unnecessary electrical systems such as the radio and headlights (if it is safe). 

If you are close to home or a garage, you can continue to drive cautiously for a short distance until your vehicle is checked by a qualified mechanic. 

If you are far from home, you should not continue to drive. If your power steering fails, you may find it difficult to drive. It’s important to note that once you turn your engine off, a damaged battery may not charge enough to turn it on again. 

Also known as the low tyre pressure light, the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System alerts you when the pressure is low. 

Underinflated or overinflated tyres can result in tyre wear. Overinflation results in decreased traction. This will result in premature wear at the centre of the tyre. 

Underinflation will cause your car to feel sluggish, decrease fuel economy, and create excessive heat build-up. This will result in premature wear on both sides of the tyre. 

 using a gauge and adjust it according to your car’s manual. If the light continues, you may have a puncture. 

 You should have your tyres changed or repaired by a professional if this light turns on. 

5. Traction Control Light/Stability Control

The Traction Control System is activated when your car detects one or more of the wheels has lost traction. This can happen in wet or icy conditions. 

When traction is lost, the engine transfers power from the slipping wheels to the wheels with grip. If the Traction Control Light is illuminated and stays on, the system has a problem. 

In some vehicles, the light illuminates when the system is engaged and goes off when the vehicle regains traction (you can check this in your car’s manual). 

If the light is on all the time, the system will be shut down, and you should take the vehicle to be checked by a qualified mechanic. You should also take extra precautions while driving to the garage. 

Your car’s brakes are undoubtedly its most important safety system. If the brake light comes on and stays on when the hand brake is disengaged, your brakes could have a problem. 

The most likely reason for this is low brake fluid. Using your owner’s manual for guidance, locate the 

 reservoir and top up, if necessary, to the correct amount. 

Make sure to use the correct fluid for your engine. This can be found in the owner’s manual. You may have a leak if the light remains on when the fluid is at the correct level. 

. If it sinks slowly to the floor, check under your vehicle for any yellow liquid leaking. You may have a problem with your brake pads if there is no leak. The warning light can stay on when brake pads are significantly worn. 

Some cars have a separate light for worn brake pads that looks like this:

You should not drive further with a brake fluid leak or worn 

. Carefully stop in a safe place and contact a breakdown service. 

There are several reasons the Oil Pressure Warning light could be illuminated. Here are some common ones: 

Oil lubricates the engine, ensures all the moving parts are working correctly, and helps the cooling and cleaning process. If the oil is not kept at the correct level, you could cause costly damage to the engine. 

Check under your car — if an oily patch is underneath, you must contact a qualified technician. 

 by locating the dipstick. Remove the stick and wipe it with a cloth. Once wiped, replace the stick and pull it out again. You will be able to see the level of oil. 

If you’re unsure how to locate the dipstick or what the correct oil level should be, this can be found in your car’s manual. 

Reason 2: Your oil pump needs to be replaced

If the oil pump isn’t working, the pressure will drop. This makes it hard for the oil to lubricate the moving parts in your engine, which may result in the engine making a loud noise while running. 

Check your oil level. If it is fine and there is no sign of a leak, the light may indicate a faulty pump. You should not continue to drive with a faulty pump — this could cause a lot of damage to your engine. 

If your oil level is fine, there is no sign of a leak, and your car sounds and runs normally, it could be a faulty sensor. It is not recommended that you drive your vehicle. You should contact a breakdown service. 

The Engine Temperature Warning light indicates your engine is overheating. You should stop when it is safe and check the coolant levels under the bonnet. Be careful when doing so, as the bonnet could be hot. 

If you’re unsure how to locate the coolant tank, consult your car’s manual. 

If necessary, top up the coolant and wait at least 30 minutes for your engine to cool before continuing your journey. 

The fuel indicator light means your car is low on fuel, and you should fill your tank as soon as possible. 

Can I drive with the fuel indicator light on?

It is not recommended you drive far with the fuel light on. 

You should keep your tank around a quarter full at least to keep the fuel pump lubricated. If the fuel pump is continuously unlubricated for extended periods of time, this can significantly reduce its life span and make it expensive to replace. 

How many miles can I go with the fuel indicator light on?

You may have to drive with the fuel indicator light on if you're far from your nearest garage. 

How many miles you can travel differs greatly between car makes and models, and other variables such as tyre pressure, gear choice, and the road surface can have a big effect. 

Here is a rough guide for popular models taken from the RAC:

 The arrow next to the light indicates which side of the vehicle your fuel cap is located. 

Common reasons for the airbag and seatbelt warning light illuminating are: 

If dirt has become stuck in the seatbelt catch, this can cause the seatbelt to not lock properly or cause the computer to think the seatbelt is not fastened. 

The wires under the driver or passenger’s seat can be damaged by items being stored or trapped under them. 

The car’s clock spring allows the steering wheel to turn whilst maintaining the connection between the electrical system, horn, and airbag. 

If the clock spring is damaged, the airbag and seatbelt light may illuminate. 

The car may have been in a minor accident that wasn’t big enough to trigger the airbag but triggered the warning light. In this case, the light would need resetting. 

Dashboard Warning Lights: A Complete Guide for Your Car

When was the last time you changed your tyres? 

How long tyres last and how many miles you can get out of them depend on several factors, and it’s vital to recognise when your tyres need replacing. 

While obvious damage like a puncture might be easy to spot, tyres may also need replacing if worn down or simply too old. 

So, how do you know when your tyres need to be replaced, and how much will it cost? Read on to find out how many 

 and the signs you need to change yours. 

Most tyre manufacturers and safety groups state 

The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation 

 states that tyres may be considered new for five years from the date of manufacture. However, tyres can last long if they are undamaged or not used often. 

 regularly for signs of wear and damage, but most garages recommend having them professionally checked. 

Professionals with a trained eye will easily spot immediate hazards and any areas of damage that might get worse if left unresolved. 

It might be better to consider the number of miles tyres last rather than thinking of it in a time period. 

How many miles do tyres last on a new car?

, your tyre life will depend on your vehicle, your driving style, and the type of roads you drive on. 

The average driver should get a minimum of 

out of their front tyres on a standard front-wheel drive car, while rear tyres can get up to 

Learn about replacing wheel bearings and their cost

As with any repairs to your vehicle, costs will vary depending on the 

 the smaller and narrower the tyre, the cheaper it will be. Thick tyres suitable for 4x4s are much more expensive than a standard run-around car. 

When buying car tyres, you really do get what you pay for

and it’s best to spend a little more. Fitting the wrong type of tyre on your car to save money could risk your and others’ safety. 

 can help you split the cost of tyres with our car repair finance options. Find a local garage 

It’s possible to repair car tyres, but it depends on the extent of the damage. Factors that will decide whether a

Your tyres may look healthy, but there could be invisible damage. These are the main warning signs that you should change your tyres. 

 replace your tyre if you have a puncture.

 However, depending on the depth and position of the damage, it may be possible to repair very minor punctures. 

One of the most common reasons for replacing your tyres is when the tread wears away and becomes 

 You can check this by yourself using a tool called a tyre gauge or by following this simple tip. 

 in your tyre periodically. These are signs that something is wrong. 

Old tyres can be brittle and age-racked with wear. Check for exposed or broken wire beads on your tyres, as this is another key sign they need a change. 

Realising you need new tyres isn’t always pleasant. Depending on your car needs, tyres can quickly rack up a hefty bill. However, 

split the new car tyre cost with interest-free monthly payments

Learn more about how our pay later tyre scheme can help you today. 

The easiest way to check your tyre tread is via the 20p test.

Take a 20p coin and place it in your tyre treads. If the tyre covers the outer band of the coin, then your tread is still within the legal limit. 

If not, it may need replacing, and you should visit your local garage as soon as possible. If you need more information on what to check on your car regularly, check out our 

handy guide to car checks before driving.

What is the legal minimum depth for car tyres?

The legal minimum depth of tyre tread for cars and other light vehicles is

across the middle three-quarters of the tyre. 

If it’s any less than this, you could be

and get 3 points on your licence. This is your sign to check your tyres! 

When you look closely, you’ll see each tyre is embossed with a unique set of markings. One of these markings is known as a DOT code. This acts as a unique code for your tyre, meaning you can identify how old the tyre is. Perfect if you want a cheat code or check your tyre’s age! 

DOT codes are made up of a string of several numbers and letters. But you only need to worry about the final four digits. 

DOT codes are a handy way to check your tyre’s age. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre’s age, too! You don’t want this to be too old to use if you ever need it. 

Apart from the risk of a fine, the condition of your tyres can also have a big impact on the car's performance

Worn-down tyres may have reduced grip, which could impact acceleration and breaking, so it really pays to have tyres that perform well. 

 on the back and front. Because tyre tread can have a big impact on handling, replacing just one tyre could cause your car to be unbalanced when moving. 

What should you do if your tyres are too old?

If your tyres are too old or have signs of wear, it’s time for a change to protect your safety. This means a spot for tyre shopping. 

However, remember these points to ensure a good fit before buying the first tyres you see. 

There comes a point when all tyres need a change. But you can extend their life by looking after them well. Here are a few tips to keep your tyres in good condition. 

Proper inflation is critical for a healthy car. To ensure your tyres are inflated, frequently check their pressure using a gauge and top them up as needed. 

If you install new tyres or notice vibrations when driving, you need to balance your tyres. You equalise the weight distribution around the tyre assembly and wheel to balance your tyres. This improves driving performance and reduces stress on the tyre. 

Harsh acceleration, sudden braking, sharp turns, and irresponsible driving can increase tyre wear and tear. 

Overloading your vehicle can put extra strain on your tyres and increase wear. Check your car’s manual to see the recommended weight capacity. 

Rotate your tyres approximately every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This extended their wear and overall lifestyle, as tyres are no longer worn down in the same place. For example, you might rotate your tyres from side to side or back to front. 

Keeping on top of your tyre changes is critical for your safety, that of other road users, and your bank account. So, avoid last-minute costs and frustrating flat tyres and check your tyres regularly. You’ll thank yourself when you catch old tyres early! 

Do you need to replace your tyres? Are you looking for a garage that can split your payments into interest-free monthly instalments? Choose from 3,000 locations and sort it today with 

has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

How long do car tyres last?

The average exhaust replacement cost in the UK is around £450, and if you have exhaust problems, it’s essential to get it fixed promptly.

If your car sounds different, smells unusual inside, or vibrates underneath, your exhaust system may need to be replaced. A faulty exhaust can hurt performance, reduce efficiency, and even affect your health.

Wondering how much a new exhaust costs and how to tell if you need one? Here's what to know.

Exhaust replacement usually costs between £300 and £600, depending on your car, the parts, and labour. Smaller cars are cheaper, while larger or luxury models cost more.

Most of the time, only sections after the catalytic converter need replacing, as these are more prone to rust. Modern cars use bolted flanges, which can seize over time and lead to extra part replacements.

There’s no one-size-fits-all price, but you’ll find typical costs below.

 can help you split the exhaust replacement costs into interest-free repayments. 

Exhaust replacement costs by manufacturer 

How much is a new exhaust for each car brand? Check the table below for average costs.

Alongside your car make and age, a new exhaust cost depends on where in the UK you’re based. Urban areas tend to have higher costs than rural garages. 

Here’s a quick overview of how prices can change. 

How much is a full exhaust replacement system cost?

A full exhaust system replacement in the UK typically costs 

. This is more expensive than just replacing sections like the back box or mid-pipe, which usually cost less. 

A complete system replacement covers every part, from the manifold to the tailpipe, ensuring that all worn components are replaced simultaneously.

Yes, replacing a faulty exhaust improves your car’s performance, fuel efficiency, and reduces harmful emissions. It also prevents costly damage and health risks. 

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