With 1,000 experts fitting
hundreds of thousands of
brake parts a year, we are
able to offer expert advice
and the best prices.
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Car Brakes – Check, Repair and Replace
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Enhances safety & control
- Prevents costly repairs
- Extends brake life
Why brake checks matter
Your car’s braking system is one of its most important safety features. Over time, brake pads, discs, and calipers wear down. From dashboard warning lights to strange noises or pulling to one side, there are key signs that your brakes might need attention. A quick check by our expert technicians can spot issues early and keep you safe on the road.
What the service includes
Our technicians carry out a comprehensive car brake inspection and repair service, replacing worn brake pads, discs, drums, or calipers where needed. Plus, we use DriveTec parts that meet or exceed original equipment standards. Every brake replacement is fitted to manufacturer standards and tested to ensure safe, smooth braking performance.
Why choose National
We use trusted, OE-equivalent DriveTec brake parts, fitted by local experts. You’ll get a 2-year / 24,000-mile guarantee on parts and labour, plus our Price Match Promise. If you find it cheaper locally, we’ll match it. Quality, value, and expert care all in one place.
Understanding Brake System Basics
- Brake Pedal: Activates the system by pushing brake fluid through to create stopping force.
- Brake Master Cylinder: Converts pedal pressure into hydraulic force to move brake fluid.
- Brake Hoses: Carry brake fluid to the calipers; should be checked regularly for cracks or leaks.
- Brake Fluid: Essential for hydraulic pressure.If brake fluid is contaminated or low it can reduce braking power.
- Drum Brakes: Found on older or rear wheels. However, they are less common than disc brakes and more prone to overheating.
- Disc Brakes: The standard in modern cars, use pads and a disc for effective, reliable stopping.
- Brake Calipers & Cylinders: Calipers press pads against discs, whereas brake cylinders push shoes against drums.
- Brake Pads: Create friction to slow your car, which wear over time and must be replaced when low.
Related: How brakes work
A set of brake pads, fully fitted, costs on average around £80, but prices start from as little as £30 depending on the vehicle type, the degree of complexity of the braking system, and most importantly the time involved in their replacement.
These prices are fully fitted and include labour and VAT.
Front brake pads take up to 75% of the stopping force, so they tend to be thicker than those used on the rear (which are generally for stability on an average car) and can therefore cost more.
Brake discs are generally replaced in pairs and cost on average around £75 each, fully fitted, but can cost from as little as £30.
If having discs replaced, National recommends having the pads replaced at the same time for optimal braking performance.
At National, the price of a brake fluid change is £49.99.
At National, we only use quality parts that are manufactured to OE (original equipment) standards and of course, all our parts and workmanship come with a UK-wide, no-quibble guarantee.
There are some key indicators that may point out that your car needs a brake fluid change. To read more about this, please click on the following blog article: 6 signs that you need a brake fluid change.
Knowingly driving a vehicle on a public road with a major defect is punishable with a fine and an endorsement on your driving license, not to mention the human cost if involved in a serious accident.
Safety first – your brake system is critical to your safety and the safety of your passengers and other road users. Never take a chance with your brakes. You don’t want them to let you down when you need them most.
Yes, you can paint the brake calipers. Find out how to do this with a simple step-by-step guide by clicking on the related article below:
Related: Painting brake calipers
There are many reasons why your car brakes could be squeaking. This could point to a potential issue. To read more about squeaking brakes, please click on the following article: Why do my brakes squeak?
All parts fitted at Halfords Autocentres and National Autocentres are guaranteed for a minimum of 2 years or 24,000 miles* (whichever is sooner). Some parts such as batteries include a longer warranty as stated on the product. If a part we have fitted should fail, it can be replaced or repaired at any of our 600 autocentres. This guarantee only covers parts and labour, excludes any additional costs incurred due to a warranty failure. Find out more about our Quality Guarantee here.
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