Brake Pad Replacement – What You Need to Know

If you hear squealing, feel a soft pedal, or see a vibration when you brake, it’s probably time to think about replacing your brake pads. Ignoring the signs can lead to costly damage to rotors and even reduce stopping power, which isn’t safe. Below we break down the basics, tell you how to spot worn pads, compare options, and decide whether a DIY job or a visit to Northwich Tyres Centre makes more sense.

How to Tell Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

Most drivers notice at least one of these clues:

• Squeal or squeak: A high‑pitched noise usually means the wear indicator is touching the rotor.
• Grinding: A metal‑on‑metal sound means the pads are gone and the rotors are wearing down.
• Soft or spongy pedal: The pedal may travel farther down before the car slows.
• Pulsing brake pedal: This can signal warped rotors, often caused by worn pads.
• Visual check: Look through the wheel spokes. If the pad thickness is less than 3 mm, replace it.

Don’t wait for a complete failure. Replace pads as soon as you spot any of these signs.

Choosing the Right Pads and Getting the Best Price

There are three main types of brake pads:

• Organic (non‑asbestos): Quiet, cheap, but wear faster.
• Semi‑metallic: Strong, good for heavy‑duty use, a bit noisier.
• Ceramic: Clean, long‑lasting, more expensive.

Pick the type that matches your driving style. Daily city drivers usually do fine with organic or ceramic pads, while drivers who tow or hit the track prefer semi‑metallic.

Price varies from £30 for basic organic sets up to £120 for high‑performance ceramic. Labor at a garage typically adds £50‑£80. If you’re comfortable with tools, a DIY swap can save the labour cost.

Here’s a quick cost check‑list:

1. Pad set price – check a few local shops or online.
2. Rotor condition – if they’re scored, you might need new rotors (£70‑£150 each).
3. Tools – you’ll need a jack, lug wrench, C‑clamp, and possibly a brake caliper tool.

Northwich Tyres Centre offers a free brake inspection, so you can walk in, get a quote, and decide whether to let the pros handle it or pick up the parts for a DIY job.

When you do it yourself, follow these steps:

1. Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and loosen the wheel nuts.
2. Jack up the wheel and remove it.
3. Compress the caliper piston with a C‑clamp, then unbolt the caliper.
4. Take out the old pads, clean the caliper with brake cleaner, and install the new pads.
5. Re‑assemble, torque the wheel nuts, lower the car, and pump the brake pedal a few times before driving.

If any step feels unsure, it’s safer to let a professional do it. A bad installation can affect braking distance and cause uneven wear.

Bottom line: listen to your car, check pad thickness regularly, and compare pad types and prices before deciding. Whether you go DIY or visit Northwich Tyres Centre, getting fresh brake pads installed on time keeps you safe and saves money in the long run.