Change Car Front Brake Discs and Pads
The front brake discs and pads are the hardest-working parts of the braking system. When the discs are worn or cracked, replacing the pads alone is no longer enough: the two must be changed together.
Always in pairs
Always replace both discs on the same axle at the same time to keep braking balanced. Never replace a single disc.
How do you know if the discs need changing?
At every service, check the disc thickness with a micrometer. As soon as the minimum thickness stamped on the disc is reached, or if the disc has cracks or deep scoring, replacement is essential. The average life of a front disc is 80,000 km.
Discs and pads: always together
If you change the discs, you must change the pads at the same time. And always replace both discs on the same axle: never just one side.
The replacement steps
Raise and remove the wheel
- Raise the front on a trolley jack and support it on axle stands
- Remove the front wheels
- Swing the caliper clear and remove the pads and the caliper carrier
Change the discs
- Remove the worn disc and clean the hub face with a wire brush
- Clean the new disc (degreaser) before fitting
- Refit the caliper carrier to the specified torque
Change the pads
- Clean the caliper and check the boots and slide pins
- Refit the clips and the new pads
- Wind the piston fully back with a piston rewind tool
After the replacement
- Refit the wheels, remove the axle stands
- Press the brake pedal several times before driving off
- Avoid harsh braking for the first 200 to 300 km
Price
Allow £45 to £130 for two cast-iron discs and £25 to £80 for a set of pads from a motor factor. Average garage price for the lot: around £280.
Practical tips
Difficulty 3/5
More involved than simply changing pads. Needs a jack, axle stands, a torque wrench and possibly a disc puller.
Bedding-in essential
After fitting, carry out a series of progressive stops over 200 km to bed in the new discs and pads. Avoid violent braking.
Tighten to torque
Always observe the tightening torque for the caliper bolts and the wheel nuts. Too little or too much compromises safety.
Price
Allow £70 to £200 for a front discs-and-pads kit, depending on the vehicle. A saving of £150 to £400 against the garage.
