Related Terms • Brakes • Brake Bleeding • Brake Drum • Brake Fluid • Brake Lining • Brake Pad • Brake Rotors • Brake Shoe • Caliper • Parking Brake • Master Cylinder • Wheel Cylinder

Definition: A typical brake job includes replacing the brake linings (new disc brake pads and shoes), resurfacing the rotors and drums, adding fresh brake fluid and bleeding the system, and inspecting/replacing any other worn components (usually at extra cost). If rotors or drums are worn beyond safe limits, they can't be resurfaced and must be replaced. Leaky disc brake calipers, drum brake wheel cylinders or the master cylinder should be rebuilt or replaced.

Related Resources:

DIY: Disc Brakes
These instructions will help you change the disc pads on most popular vehicles. Be sure to READ these instructions completely before you begin.

DIY: Drum Brakes
This is a good job for a moderately skilled DIY. It only takes about three hours to do and will save you quite a few bucks. Plus you will get the satisfaction of saying "I did it myself!"

DIY: Wheel Cylinders
Here's a good job for the DIY that's easy and will save you a few bucks.

Bargain Brake Jobs
Your brakes are the most important part of your vehicle. You need to be sure the job is done completely and correctly.