Cost of brake pads/discs

[cymruambyth1]

I haven't been driving long so dont know too much about cars. I have a Renault Clio 1.2 which is about 12 years old. There is a grinding noise when I apply the brakes which I assume means that the brake pads and now possible the discs as well need replacing. Does anyone know on average how much this would cost, I think the back and front discs need doing?!

Plus, from experience, do people think it is better to go to an independant garage or somewhere like Halfords, Kwik Fit!

Thanks in advance for the help - I need it!!

[chas2008]

keep away from main dealers they will want to sell Renault parts at Renault prices and the labour rate is anything from �65+ per hour.. Independants will use factor parts which are absolutey fine and usually come from the same sources as genuine parts..at a guess the parts would be around �50 (ish) may be less..+ what ever labour again at a guess 1 hour (although in reality it probably takes about 20mins for a skilled tech) assuming there are no problems..the rear should be drums not discs and last longer than the ft pads/discs, really depends on mileage

[cymruambyth1]

Thanks Chas. Off the top of my head the mileage is around 80 - 90k. I bought the car off ebay in March and the MOT was only done in January so I am surprised that they did not notice the brake pads. I did go to Kwik Fit for something little and they said that there are non existent break pads on front and back and that the discs need replacing as well.

I felt they were trying to pull a fast one because 1. I am female 2. They knew I hadn't had the car for long 3. They knew I hadnt been driving long.

Chas, the �50 parts, does that include discs/drum?

Thanks! I should really educate myself more in Mechanics!

[NORMANTHEDOG]

your front pads will be around �20/30,front discs �25/30,rear brakes �30/35,labour about �80/100,dont go to halfords or kwik fit they will rip you off,try a local garage.

[chas2008]

no, just discs and pads, rear brakes as normanthedog states...approx 30-35, although rear drums do get replaced its not that common its quite possible the shoes could be fine on 80,000 miles..bet KWIKFIT didnt take the drums of to check..
do you know of any home mechanics?..or any recomended ? both these jobs are easily done outside your house with basic skills

[bob57]

I agree with norman whatever you do DO NOT go to KWKFIT they charged my daughter �400 to get her car thru the mot saying the brake discs were worn
the brake discs in question were replaced before the mot 2 weeks before