Front Brake Pads Cost UK
See how much front brake pads typically costs in the UK. Our estimates are based on manufacturer labour standards and current parts pricing across budget, mid-range, and OEM tiers.
Front Brake Pads Cost Estimate
Based on UK average labour rates • Standard Car
Typical Total Cost
£96 – £282
Labour
Low
1.0h
≈ £76
Average
1.5h
≈ £114
High
2.0h
≈ £152
Parts
Cost by Vehicle Make
Premium makes typically cost 20-30% more due to complex engineering, specialist tooling, and higher parts pricing.
Premium Brands(9 makes)
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When Is It Needed?
Front brake pads typically last between 25,000 and 60,000 miles depending on driving style. City driving with frequent stop-start braking wears pads significantly faster than motorway driving. Most garages check pad thickness during a service — anything under 3mm means it's time to replace.
Labour Time
Replacing front brake pads typically takes 1–2 hours. If the discs also need replacing, add an extra 30 minutes. Some vehicles with electronic handbrakes or brake pad sensors may take longer due to the diagnostic reset required.
Warning Signs
- •High-pitched squealing or screeching when braking — caused by built-in wear indicators
- •Grinding or metallic scraping noise — means pads are completely worn and metal is contacting the disc
- •Longer stopping distances or the car pulling to one side under braking
- •Brake pedal vibration or pulsing when pressing the pedal
- •Dashboard brake warning light illuminated
What's Involved in the Repair?
- 1
The wheel is removed to access the brake caliper
- 2
The caliper is unbolted or slid off the bracket to expose the old pads
- 3
Old pads are removed and the caliper piston is pushed back to accommodate the new, thicker pads
- 4
New pads are fitted, caliper reassembled, and the wheel refitted
- 5
The brake pedal is pumped several times to restore pedal pressure before the car is moved
Expert Tip
Don't delay this repair — worn pads can score brake discs, turning a £150 pad change into a £400+ pad and disc replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do front brake pads last?
Most front brake pads last between 25,000 and 60,000 miles depending on your driving style, vehicle weight, and whether you drive mostly in town or on motorways. Heavy braking and frequent city driving wear pads faster.
What are the signs that front brake pads need replacing?
Listen for a high-pitched squealing noise when braking — most pads have built-in wear indicators that create this sound. Other signs include longer stopping distances, a vibrating brake pedal, or your car pulling to one side when braking.
Can I replace just the front pads, or do I need discs too?
If your brake discs are within spec (not warped or below minimum thickness), you can replace pads alone. Most garages will measure disc thickness during the job and recommend disc replacement if needed — typically every other pad change.
Is it dangerous to drive with worn brake pads?
Yes. Completely worn pads mean metal-on-metal contact with the disc, drastically increasing stopping distances and potentially causing disc damage that turns a £150 job into a £400+ bill. If you hear grinding, get them checked immediately.