How Long Does It Take to Replace Brake Discs?
3 Answers
Replacing brake discs does not take too long, usually about 1 hour. Here are methods to determine whether brake discs need replacement: 1. Listen for sounds. If there is a hissing or squealing noise when lightly braking, the brake pads must be replaced immediately. This is because the limit indicators on both sides of the brake pads are directly rubbing against the brake disc, indicating that the brake pads have exceeded their limit. 2. Use the brake disc warning light on the dashboard as a basis for judging whether the brake discs should be replaced. Normally, this indicator light is off. When the brake discs malfunction or are excessively worn, the light turns on and goes off after repair. 3. Check the thickness. Most brake disc products have wear indicators, with three small pits distributed on the disc surface. Use a vernier caliper to measure the depth of the small pits, which is 1.5mm. If the total wear depth on both sides of the brake disc reaches 3mm, it is recommended to replace the brake discs promptly.
I've changed brake discs at home several times, usually taking about an hour per wheel. This includes removing the wheel, taking off the caliper, extracting the old disc, installing the new one, and reassembling all components. For first-timers, it might take over two hours as they figure out tool usage, but experienced hands work much faster. Having complete tools like wrenches and a jack is crucial—missing one item can delay the process. Rust is the most common issue—if bolts are corroded, you'll spend extra effort cleaning, potentially extending to 90 minutes per wheel. Wear gloves to prevent cuts and take the opportunity to inspect or replace brake pads simultaneously to avoid repeat disassembly later. Safety first—after finishing, gently test-brake to check for abnormal noises. Don't rush; patience is key to avoid mistakes compromising driving safety.
I work at an auto repair shop, and replacing brake discs typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per wheel on average. It depends on the vehicle model—compact cars like the Honda Fit are easier to handle, while SUVs or German cars like Mercedes-Benz have more complex structures, which take longer. We use professional pneumatic tools to speed up the disassembly process, but the core focus remains on carefully inspecting the caliper condition—cleaning the guide rails and ensuring proper component alignment. Customers often overlook the opportunity to replace brake pads at the same time; adding this service extends the overall duration but offers better value. Our shop operates efficiently due to the team's extensive experience, but we still recommend owners book appointments in advance to avoid peak hours. The key is not to rush and risk improper installation, which could affect braking performance. After completion, a low-speed test drive is essential to confirm everything is correct.
