Safety Critical Service

Brake Specialist Services

Your brakes are your car's most important safety system. Here's what brake work typically costs in NZ, the warning signs to watch for, and how to find a local mechanic.

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From $150
Pad Replacement
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Ask for a Check
Many workshops inspect brakes at a service
⚡
Don't Wait
Grinding or a soft pedal needs prompt attention

Brake Services

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Brake Pad Replacement

Quality brake pads for all vehicle makes. Ask which brand of pads the workshop fits.

From $150/axle
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Disc Machining/Replacement

Disc machining to remove scoring and restore smooth braking, or full replacement if required.

From $80/disc
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Brake Fluid Flush

Complete brake fluid replacement to maintain pedal feel and prevent corrosion.

From $80
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ABS Diagnostics & Repair

ABS warning light diagnosis, sensor replacement, and module repair.

From $50 diagnostic
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Caliper Service

Caliper cleaning, rebuilding, or replacement for stuck or leaking calipers.

From $150/caliper
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Handbrake Adjustment

Handbrake cable adjustment or replacement for proper parking brake function.

From $60

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

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Squealing or Grinding

Metal-on-metal sound means pads are worn out

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Longer Stopping Distance

Takes longer to stop than usual

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Pulling to One Side

Car veers left or right when braking

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Vibration or Pulsing

Steering wheel or pedal shakes when braking

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Soft or Low Pedal

Pedal goes too far down or feels spongy

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Warning Light On

Brake or ABS light illuminated on dash

Don't ignore these warning signs - brake failure can be fatal

Book Brake Inspection

Brake Service FAQs

1

How much does brake pad replacement cost in NZ?

Brake pad replacement typically costs $150-$350 per axle (front or rear) including parts and labour. High-performance or ceramic pads cost more. Disc replacement adds $100-$200 per disc. Ask for a written quote so you know the exact cost.

2

How do I know if my brakes need replacing?

Common signs include: squealing or grinding noise when braking, longer stopping distances, brake pedal feels spongy or goes to the floor, car pulls to one side when braking, or vibration through the steering wheel or pedal.

3

How long do brake pads last?

Brake pads typically last 40,000-70,000 km, but this varies based on driving style, vehicle type, and conditions. City driving with frequent stops wears pads faster than highway driving. Most manufacturers recommend checking brakes every 20,000 km.

4

Should I replace front and rear brakes at the same time?

Not necessarily. Front brakes do 60-70% of the braking work and wear faster than rears. You should replace brakes in pairs (both front or both rear) but don't need to do all four at once unless they all need it.

5

What's the difference between brake pads and brake discs?

Brake pads are friction material that clamp against the disc to slow the wheel. Brake discs (rotors) are the metal discs the pads clamp onto. Pads wear faster and are replaced more often. Discs usually last 2-3 sets of pads before needing replacement.

6

Can I drive with worn brake pads?

It's dangerous and not recommended. Worn brake pads increase stopping distances, can damage expensive brake discs, and may cause brake failure. If you hear grinding, your pads are likely worn to the metal and need immediate attention.

7

What causes brake discs to warp?

Warped discs are usually caused by excessive heat from hard braking, driving through water after hard braking (thermal shock), over-tightened wheel nuts, or poor quality discs. Symptoms include vibration or pulsing when braking.

8

Do you offer mobile brake repair?

Yes. Many mobile mechanics offer mobile brake services, including pad replacement and disc machining/replacement at your home or workplace. Complex brake repairs may require workshop facilities.

Don't Compromise on Brake Safety

Call a local workshop for a written brake quote, or tell us what your car needs and we'll help point you to a mechanic.

Request Help Finding a Mechanic