How Much Does It Cost to Replace Brake Pads in Australia?

If you’re a car owner, one of the things you need to check regularly is your brake pad. Unfortunately, these things wear down over time and need to be replaced as soon as they start making grinding or squealing noises. While replacing a brake pad might cost you a few dollars, it is necessary to keep your vehicle in tip-top condition and lessen the likelihood of road accidents.

But how much does brake pad replacement cost in Australia? It typically starts at around $130 per wheel axle. However, for a full brake job, the average brake pad and rotor replacement cost is $300 to $600. Note that the cost of replacing brake pads can be influenced by a few factors, which will be discussed later.

The brake pad is behind the metal disc (rotor) and inside the brake calliper. When you press on the brake, the calliper moves the brake pad and causes it to press forcefully against the rotor. This creates enough friction to stop the car. If your vehicle has disc brakes all the way around, then you have two brake pads for each wheel for a total of eight. Disc brakes are not the only type of braking system; some vehicles have a different braking system on the rear axle.

One of the things that can affect the cost to replace your brake pad is the type of vehicle you have. This table shows the average price of replacing your brake pads based on vehicle model: 

Location

The average labour cost to replace brake pads depends on where you live. In general, highly urbanised cities such as Melbourne and Sydney have higher costs than smaller rural areas. Moreover, you might find higher labour fees in places where certain parts and tools are not readily available. To give you an idea of how much it costs to replace brake pads, check out the list below:

Brake pad type

Another factor that impacts the price of the service is the type of brake you have. Although organic brake pads are typically cheaper, they wear down more quickly and need to be replaced in a shorter amount of time. In the long run, they cost a bit more, as you keep on replacing them with new ones. 

Meanwhile, semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads are more expensive but can withstand wear and tear better. This means you can save more money over time, as you don’t have to replace them as often as organic brake pads. Galvanised brake pads, which don’t get easily damaged, are also starting to become the go-to option for some car owners. 

Vehicle type

Your vehicle type is one of the most significant factors influencing the cost of replacing brake pads. Working on high-end cars will likely cost more since they have more expensive and advanced parts requiring special car servicing and treatment. Bigger cars also cost more because they require heavier and sturdier brake pads.

If you have ever encountered any of these issues, your brake pads must be replaced immediately: 

Soft brake pedal

If your brake pedal feels soft and squishy or goes unusually low whenever you push it, it might need a replacement already. Contact your local mechanic to estimate how much it will cost to replace your front and rear brakes. 

Faulty brake lights

If your brake warning lights start to go on and off unexpectedly, there could be some damage to your brake system. Immediately bring your vehicle to a car mechanic so that they can check and fix the problem. 

Grinding/squealing noises

One of the biggest signs that your brake pads have been damaged is if they start making grinding or squealing noises. Ignoring this issue can lead to more damage and higher repair costs.

Car ownership comes with several responsibilities. These include taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic once in a while to maintain its excellent condition. While this costs a few dollars, you can have peace of mind knowing that your car is performing well and is safe to drive anywhere. 

Now that you know how much it costs to replace brake pads in Australia, it’s time to hire a nearby mechanic. All you have to do is request a job and review offers from reliable mechanics on Oneflare! Don’t forget to mention these details:

• The make, model, and size of your vehicle
• The type of brake pad you have
• Your location
• Your budget

How often should brake pads be replaced?

Typically, brake pads should be changed every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, while brake rotors should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. However, these figures vary based on driving conditions and brake material. 

Can I drive my car with bad brake pads?

While you can still drive with a worn-out brake pad, it is not recommended. This is because faulty brake pads can further damage your metal grinding through heat exposure. To extend the life of your brake system, always replace your brake pads when needed. 

Can you replace brake pads yourself?

Yes, you can replace them yourself. However, there are many reasons why you might not want to do so. First, if you bleed them incorrectly, your brakes could fail. Secondly, you must have the right tools. Finally, it takes considerable time to change brake pads without the proper tools and knowledge. To save resources, consider hiring a local mechanic to do the job for you. 

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources