Question 1

What is a Brake Repair?

Accepted Answer

Your car's braking system is made up of the following components:

Brake discs, which spin with your car's wheels
Brake Pads, which push on the discs to slow the car
Brake Calipers which hold, and push, the pads
Brake Lines (or 'Hoses') which carry Brake Fluid

Brake Master Cylinder and Servo, which work to amplify the effort you use when pushing the brake pedal

Wear or failure of any one of these components will cause braking problems, requiring repair.

Question 2

Can I repair brakes myself?

Accepted Answer

Brake Pads can be changed by a skilled home mechanic, as can Brake Discs, in most cases. However, work on Brake Lines, Servo, Master Cylinder and the like is more complex. Finally, brakes are, of course, essential to the safety of you, your passengers and pedestrians, so it is always better to rely on a professional mechanic.
Test

Question 3

What are the symptoms of brake problems?

Accepted Answer

Any of the following will indicate brake problems:

increased effort needed to stop or slow the car
pulling to one side when braking
juddering or vibration when braking
grinding noises when braking
a 'spongy' pedal, or one that can be pushed to the floor, or a brake pedal that doesn't 'spring back' when released.

Question 4

What does Brake Repair cost?

Accepted Answer

The price of Brake Repairs will depend entirely on the work required. Brake Pads can be changed for under £50, whereas a full set of pads and discs will typically cost four times more. That said, a car without a functioning braking system simply can't be driven, so these repairs are essential.

Question 5

Can Mobile Mechanics perform Brake Repairs?

Accepted Answer

A Mobile Mechanic will be able to perform the vast majority of Brake Repairs, yes. They will bring the parts for your precise vehicle with them.