When it comes to vehicle safety, few components are as critical as your brakes. At Oxbys Autos, we often get asked:
“Can I just replace the brake pads and not the discs?”
While technically possible in some cases, we strongly recommend replacing both pads and discs together—and here’s why it’s often the smartest and safest option.
🔧 How Brake Pads and Discs Work Together
Brake pads and discs (also known as rotors) are a matched pair. When you press the brake pedal, the pads clamp onto the spinning disc to create friction, which slows the car. Over time, both components wear down—pads typically wear faster, but discs aren’t far behind.
If you only replace the pads and leave worn discs in place, you’re potentially compromising braking performance, comfort, and even safety. In many cases the discs will be worn and scored.
⚠️ Why It’s Usually Best to Replace Both
1. Worn Discs Can Ruin New Pads
New pads need a smooth, even surface to bed in properly. If your discs are grooved, warped, or worn thin, they won’t match up well with new pads. This can cause:
- Uneven wear
- Noise or vibrations
- Reduced stopping power
You’re essentially putting new tyres on a damaged wheel.
2. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
Replacing pads alone might seem cheaper upfront, but it could lead to:
- Shorter lifespan of the new pads
- More frequent repairs
- Additional labour if you need to return sooner to replace the discs anyway
Doing both at once often saves time, labour costs, and headaches. Why pay for the same job twice? In many cases new pads on old discs last less than 2 months!
3. Improved Performance and Safety
New discs paired with new pads ensure consistent contact, better heat dissipation, and optimal stopping power—especially important in emergency braking situations or if you tow, drive heavy, or travel at high speeds.
4. Warranty and Manufacturer Recommendations
Many manufacturers (including OE suppliers) recommend changing both together. In fact, some warranties for new pads are voided if they’re fitted to old, worn discs.
đź› How to Know If You Need New Discs
At Oxbys Autos, we inspect your brakes as part of our routine service. Signs you may need new discs include:
- Deep grooves or scoring
- Disc thickness below the minimum spec
- Cracks or visible heat damage
- Pulsating brakes when stopping
We’ll always show you the condition of your discs and pads so you can make an informed decision.
âś… Trust Oxbys Autos for Brake Repairs
When it comes to brakes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. At Oxbys Autos, we use quality parts and expert fitting to ensure your vehicle stops as well as it goes.
Need your brakes checked?
đź“Ť Visit us in Chesterfield
đź“ž Call us 01246 720395
đź“… Book online
