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Cheap Brake Pads: Are They Worth It?

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Cheap Brake Pads

Cheap Brake Pads
© Can Stock Photo / marekusz

Cheap Brake Pads – Are They Really Worth Saving Money On?

Over the years at Pellon Tyres Halifax, we have seen all kinds of brake problems. Some are caused by wear and tear, while others are down to poor-quality replacement parts being fitted elsewhere in an attempt to save a few pounds. When it comes to brakes, though, cheap is not always cheerful.

Most drivers never really think about their brakes until they hear a grinding noise or the MOT test points out a problem. Yet your braking system is probably the single most important safety feature fitted to your vehicle. Whether you are driving through busy Halifax traffic, coming down the hills around Sowerby Bridge, or stopping suddenly on the Bradford Road into Brighouse, you rely on your brakes every single day.

How Your Car Brakes Actually Work: Cheap Brake Pads

Modern braking systems are surprisingly clever, although the basic principle has remained much the same for decades. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is created inside the master cylinder. Brake fluid then travels through pipes and hoses to the brake callipers at each wheel.

The callipers squeeze the brake pads against the brake discs. This friction converts the car’s movement into heat energy, slowing the vehicle down safely and under control.

Over time, the brake pads wear away naturally because they are constantly rubbing against the discs. That is exactly what they are designed to do. However, the quality of the brake pads fitted can make a huge difference to:

  • stopping performance,
  • noise,
  • brake dust,
  • disc wear,
  • and overall safety.

Cheap Brake Pads Can Cost More in the Long Run

One thing we often explain to customers around the Calderdale area is that the cheapest brake pads are not always the cheapest option overall. Some low-cost pads wear out very quickly, create excessive brake dust, and can even damage the brake discs themselves.

We occasionally see cars arrive at the garage fitted with very cheap imported pads that squeal loudly every time the brakes are applied. Some produce so much black dust that the alloy wheels are coated within days. Others simply do not perform well during emergency braking.

This becomes especially noticeable during wet Yorkshire winters when roads are greasy and stopping distances are already increased.

Different Types of Cheap Brake Pads

There are several main types of brake pads available today. Each has advantages and disadvantages depending on the vehicle and the customer’s budget.

Non-Asbestos Organic Brake Pads

These are commonly fitted to many standard family cars from the factory. They are made using materials such as rubber, glass fibres and Kevlar compounds.

Advantages:

  • quieter braking,
  • lower cost,
  • smooth braking feel.

Disadvantages:

  • wear out quicker,
  • produce more dust,
  • less suited to heavy vehicles.

These pads are perfectly acceptable for normal everyday driving and remain popular because they keep costs sensible for motorists.

Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: Cheap Brake Pads

These contain metal compounds such as steel, iron and copper mixed with friction materials.

Advantages:

  • strong braking performance,
  • longer lifespan,
  • good heat resistance.

Disadvantages:

  • can be noisier,
  • may wear brake discs faster,
  • produce more brake dust.

Semi-metallic pads are often a good compromise between performance and price. Many modern vehicles use this type.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Ceramic pads are generally considered the premium option and are increasingly popular on higher-end cars.

Advantages:

  • very quiet,
  • low brake dust,
  • long-lasting,
  • excellent heat resistance.

Disadvantages:

  • more expensive,
  • sometimes not ideal for heavier commercial vehicles,
  • can feel slightly less aggressive when cold.

Certain manufacturers specifically recommend ceramic pads, and where appropriate we fit them at Pellon Tyres. Customers who value quiet braking and clean alloy wheels often prefer this type.

Driving Style Makes a Huge Difference: Cheap Brake Pads

The lifespan of brake pads depends heavily on driving habits. Someone regularly driving through Halifax town centre in stop-start traffic will naturally wear brakes out quicker than a motorist mainly using the motorway network.

Heavy braking, towing caravans, carrying loads, or driving in hilly areas such as Hebden Bridge or Ripponden can also shorten brake life considerably.

We often remind customers that gentle driving habits not only save fuel but can also greatly extend the life of:

  • brake pads,
  • brake discs,
  • tyres,
  • and suspension parts.

Why We Never Fit the Cheapest Parts

At Pellon Autocentre Halifax, we always try to match the correct parts to the customer’s needs and budget. However, we avoid fitting the very cheapest brake components available on the market.

In nearly 40 years of business, we have learned that poor-quality parts often create:

  • noise complaints,
  • vibration issues,
  • reduced braking efficiency,
  • and premature wear.

Customers may save a small amount initially but often end up paying more later.

That is especially true now modern cars are heavier than ever before due to:

  • larger body sizes,
  • SUV popularity,
  • and electric vehicle battery weight.

Brakes today work extremely hard compared with older cars from the 1970s and 1980s.

Brake Dust and Environmental Concerns

One interesting topic that is becoming more important is brake dust pollution. Many people think vehicle pollution only comes from exhaust pipes, but brake pads and tyres also release tiny particles into the environment.

Governments and manufacturers are already beginning to investigate lower-emission braking systems and cleaner friction materials. Electric cars using regenerative braking actually reduce traditional brake wear because the electric motor helps slow the vehicle down.

In the future, brake dust may become a much bigger environmental issue than many motorists realise today.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Brake Pads

Brakes are simply not an area where motorists should cut corners. Cheap brake pads may look attractive when comparing prices online, but quality matters enormously when it comes to safety.

A good-quality set of brake pads can:

  • stop the vehicle more effectively,
  • reduce noise,
  • protect the discs,
  • and provide greater confidence in poor weather conditions.

Whether you drive a small hatchback around Halifax or a larger SUV through the Yorkshire hills, properly maintained brakes are essential for safe motoring.

At Pellon Tyres, we always advise customers honestly and fit brake components that we would be happy using on our own vehicles.

Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

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Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved
Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

✅ Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

Spongy Pedal? Grinding Noise? Here’s How We Fixed a Serious Audi Brake Issue in Halifax

There’s nothing quite like driving an Audi, is there? That smooth ride, German engineering, and a touch of class that makes it feel a cut above. But even the best-built cars can run into trouble. And recently, we had a real challenge roll into Pellon Tyre and Autocentre here in Halifax, West Yorkshire – a proper head-scratcher involving an Audi A1 with some very dodgy brakes.

This wasn’t your average squeaky pad. It was the kind of fault that could have led to a serious accident if left unchecked. Thankfully, Dave (our customer) knew something wasn’t right and brought it straight to the experts.

The Problem: Brakes That Just Wouldn’t Stop Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

Dave described his brakes as feeling “spongy” – sometimes they worked, sometimes they didn’t. That’s enough to make anyone nervous behind the wheel.

After a quick test drive around the block, we knew straight away that this wasn’t just in his head. There was a nasty grinding noise, and the braking distance was far too long. Time to get it up on the lift.

We started by removing the wheels and checking the usual suspects. The brake discs were in a right state – badly corroded, worn, and pitted like the surface of the moon. The brake pads were also toast – thin, uneven, and starting to crumble at the edges. But it didn’t stop there…

The Root Cause: Seized Brake Callipers & Contaminated Fluid

A closer look revealed partially seized brake callipers, causing uneven pad wear and excessive heat build-up. That explained the grinding and inconsistent performance.

To top it off, the brake fluid was old and contaminated – which is often the reason behind a soft or spongy brake pedal. If brake fluid isn’t changed every couple of years, it absorbs moisture and loses effectiveness. (The AA recommends checking it regularly.)

The Fix: Getting the Audi Back to Safety Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

Once we had a full diagnosis, we got to work. We:

  • Fitted new high-quality brake pads and discs
  • Stripped and refurbished the brake callipers
  • Flushed out the old brake fluid and replaced it with fresh DOT 4 fluid
  • Carried out full brake testing, including another road test

The result? Dave’s Audi A1 now stops exactly as it should – no sponginess, no grinding, and full confidence every time he touches the brake pedal.

🔧 You can read more about brake repairs at Pellon Autocentre here.

A Quick Look at the Audi A1

Launched back in 2010, the Audi A1 was Audi’s answer to the likes of the MINI Cooper and Volkswagen Polo – compact, stylish, and still packed with premium features.

Over the years, it’s gone from strength to strength with various engine options, trims, and even performance models. The A1’s a favourite with commuters heading to Leeds or Manchester, thanks to its size, economy, and classy interior.

Despite its smart looks, though, the braking system still needs proper care – especially with our UK winters and salty roads accelerating rust and corrosion on discs and callipers.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Brake Issues Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

Brakes are your car’s most important safety system – no question about it. If your brake pedal feels soft, you hear strange noises when stopping, or you just feel something’s off, don’t take the risk.

We see all sorts of brake issues here in Halifax – especially during MOT season, when cars that have sat unused suddenly need to perform. Catching problems early saves you money and could even save your life.

👉 Book your MOT or brake inspection online today.

Final Word: Safe Braking in Halifax and Beyond

Dave’s Audi A1 is now back on the road and braking like new – another happy customer in the books.

Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we’re proud to offer honest, expert service to drivers across Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Brighouse, Hebden Bridge, and Elland. Whether it’s brakes, MOTs, tyres, or suspension work, we’ve got your back.

If your car doesn’t feel quite right, give us a ring or pop in. It might just need a bit of TLC – and we’re always happy to help.

Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved
Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved
Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved
Audi A1 Brake Problems Solved

 

A Recent MOT Fail

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A Recent MOT Fail

A Recent MOT Fail
A Recent MOT Fail

A Recent MOT Fail

A Recent MOT Fail – The Little Fault That Could Have Been Dangerous

Running a busy garage like Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax means that we see all sorts of vehicles every day. Some come in for routine servicing, some for tyres, and others arrive for their annual MOT test.

Most cars pass without too much trouble, but occasionally we come across a vehicle that reminds us just how important the MOT test really is.

Earlier this week we had one such case.

The Car Arrives for Its MOT Test: A Recent MOT Fail

The customer arrived with a small family hatchback that had been running well by their own admission. In fact, the driver told us that they were fairly confident the car would pass its MOT without any problems.

At Pellon Tyres in Halifax, our MOT tester Dale always carries out the checks in a calm and methodical way. We believe that doing things properly is the only way to keep customers safe on the road.

You can read more about how MOT testing works on the official government site here:
https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot

The vehicle went up on the ramp, and the inspection began.

At first glance, everything looked fairly normal.

But as we often say in the garage world, it’s what you can’t see straight away that sometimes matters the most.

A Recent MOT Failure

A Serious Brake Problem Discovered: A Recent MOT Fail

During the brake inspection, Dale noticed something that immediately caught his attention.

The rear brake discs were badly worn and heavily corroded.

Now, a lot of drivers don’t realise that brake discs can rust and deteriorate over time, especially if the car is used mainly for short local journeys around town.

Halifax, like many Yorkshire towns, has plenty of hills, damp weather, and the occasional salty winter road. All of this can take its toll on braking components.

In this particular case, the corrosion had reached a point where the braking surface was no longer safe. The brake pads were also unevenly worn and were no longer making full contact with the discs.

Under MOT regulations, this meant the car could not pass the test.

You can read more about brake safety here:
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/car-maintenance/brake-problems/

Why Brake Problems Are So Important: A Recent MOT Fail

Brakes are, without question, one of the most critical safety systems on any vehicle.

When a driver presses the brake pedal, they expect the car to stop smoothly and safely. If the discs or pads are worn out, stopping distances can increase dramatically.

In wet weather, which we see plenty of here in West Yorkshire, worn brakes can become even more dangerous.

This is exactly why the MOT test exists—to identify problems before they lead to an accident.

Explaining the Problem to the Customer

We always try to explain faults clearly to customers so they understand exactly what has happened.

In this case, the driver was surprised because they hadn’t noticed any obvious braking issues.

However, brake wear often happens gradually. Drivers become used to the way the car feels, so they may not notice the deterioration over time.

Once we showed the customer the worn discs and pads, they could immediately see why the MOT had failed.

Carrying Out the Repairs: A Recent MOT Fail

Fortunately, the repair itself was fairly straightforward.

We fitted:

• New rear brake discs
• New rear brake pads
• A full brake system inspection

Once the work was completed, the vehicle went back through the MOT retest and passed without any further problems.

The customer drove away with a much safer car.

You can find out more about our garage services here:
https://www.pellontyres.co.uk/

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

This story highlights an important point.

Many drivers wait until the MOT test before discovering problems with their vehicle.

But having your car checked regularly can help prevent unexpected MOT failures.

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we always recommend keeping an eye on:

  • brake wear
  • tyre condition
  • suspension components
  • steering parts

All of these areas are inspected during the MOT test and can affect your vehicle’s safety.

A Garage with a Long Local History: A Recent MOT Failure

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre has been serving motorists in Halifax and the surrounding Yorkshire area since 1989.

Over the years we have seen thousands of vehicles pass through our workshop, from small city cars to large vans and family SUVs.

Every MOT test tells its own story, and occasionally we come across faults that remind us just how important regular checks really are.

Final Thoughts

The good news in this case was that the problem was found during the MOT test rather than during an emergency stop on the road.

After the brake repairs, the customer left with a vehicle that was safe, reliable, and fully road legal again.

And that, at the end of the day, is exactly what the MOT system is designed to achieve.

A Recent MOT Failure

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A Recent MOT Failure

A Recent MOT Failure
A Recent MOT Failure

A Recent MOT Failure

A Recent MOT Failure – The Little Fault That Could Have Been Dangerous

Running a busy garage like Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax means that we see all sorts of vehicles every day. Some come in for routine servicing, some for tyres, and others arrive for their annual MOT test.

Most cars pass without too much trouble, but occasionally we come across a vehicle that reminds us just how important the MOT test really is.

Earlier this week we had one such case.

The Car Arrives for Its MOT Test: A Recent MOT Failure

The customer arrived with a small family hatchback that had been running well by their own admission. In fact, the driver told us that they were fairly confident the car would pass its MOT without any problems.

At Pellon Tyres in Halifax, our MOT tester Dale always carries out the checks in a calm and methodical way. We believe that doing things properly is the only way to keep customers safe on the road.

You can read more about how MOT testing works on the official government site here:
https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot

The vehicle went up on the ramp, and the inspection began.

At first glance, everything looked fairly normal.

But as we often say in the garage world, it’s what you can’t see straight away that sometimes matters the most.

A Recent MOT Failure
A Recent MOT Failure

A Serious Brake Problem Discovered: A Recent MOT Failure

During the brake inspection, Dale noticed something that immediately caught his attention.

The rear brake discs were badly worn and heavily corroded.

Now, a lot of drivers don’t realise that brake discs can rust and deteriorate over time, especially if the car is used mainly for short local journeys around town.

Halifax, like many Yorkshire towns, has plenty of hills, damp weather, and the occasional salty winter road. All of this can take its toll on braking components.

In this particular case, the corrosion had reached a point where the braking surface was no longer safe. The brake pads were also unevenly worn and were no longer making full contact with the discs.

Under MOT regulations, this meant the car could not pass the test.

You can read more about brake safety here:

Why Brake Problems Are So Important

Brakes are, without question, one of the most critical safety systems on any vehicle.

When a driver presses the brake pedal, they expect the car to stop smoothly and safely. If the discs or pads are worn out, stopping distances can increase dramatically.

In wet weather, which we see plenty of here in West Yorkshire, worn brakes can become even more dangerous.

This is exactly why the MOT test exists—to identify problems before they lead to an accident.

Explaining the Problem to the Customer: A Recent MOT Failure

We always try to explain faults clearly to customers so they understand exactly what has happened.

In this case, the driver was surprised because they hadn’t noticed any obvious braking issues.

However, brake wear often happens gradually. Drivers become used to the way the car feels, so they may not notice the deterioration over time.

Once we showed the customer the worn discs and pads, they could immediately see why the MOT had failed.

Carrying Out the Repairs

Fortunately, the repair itself was fairly straightforward.

We fitted:

• New rear brake discs
• New rear brake pads
• A full brake system inspection

Once the work was completed, the vehicle went back through the MOT retest and passed without any further problems.

The customer drove away with a much safer car.

You can find out more about our garage services here:
https://www.pellontyres.co.uk/

Why Regular Maintenance Matters: A Recent MOT Failure

This story highlights an important point.

Many drivers wait until the MOT test before discovering problems with their vehicle.

But having your car checked regularly can help prevent unexpected MOT failures.

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we always recommend keeping an eye on:

All of these areas are inspected during the MOT test and can affect your vehicle’s safety.

A Garage with a Long Local History

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre has been serving motorists in Halifax and the surrounding Yorkshire area since 1989.

Over the years we have seen thousands of vehicles pass through our workshop, from small city cars to large vans and family SUVs.

Every MOT test tells its own story, and occasionally we come across faults that remind us just how important regular checks really are.

Final Thoughts

The good news in this case was that the problem was found during the MOT test rather than during an emergency stop on the road.

After the brake repairs, the customer left with a vehicle that was safe, reliable, and fully road legal again. And that, at the end of the day, is exactly what the MOT system is designed to achieve

Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

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Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area
Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area – Including Electric and Hybrid Cars

If there’s one thing you don’t want to take chances with on the roads of Calderdale, it’s your brakes. From the steep climbs out of Hebden Bridge to the winding drops into Sowerby Bridge, your brakes are working overtime. Whether you drive a petrol, diesel, hybrid, or fully electric car, keeping your braking system in top shape is essential for safety — and it could save you a small fortune down the line.

Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we’ve been keeping local drivers safe on these hills for decades, and brake servicing is one of our daily jobs.

Why Regular Brake Servicing Matters: Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

Your brakes take a beating — especially around Calderdale’s hilly roads and stop-start town traffic. Over time, brake pads wear down, discs can corrode, and brake fluid absorbs moisture, all of which reduce braking performance.

Many people only think about their brakes when they start to hear a squeal or grinding noise, but regular servicing helps avoid those nasty surprises. Our technicians check:

Brake pads and discs for wear or corrosion

Brake callipers and sliders for sticking or seizing (a common issue in UK weather)

Brake fluid condition – it should be changed roughly every two years

Handbrake or electronic parking brake operation

If you drive up and down Halifax’s hills daily, that constant pressure means your brakes are doing double duty — regular checks are vital for safety.

Electric and Hybrid Car Brakes – What’s Different? Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

A lot of people assume electric and hybrid cars barely use their brakes, and while that’s partly true, it’s also what causes other issues!

Most EVs and hybrids use regenerative braking — where the motor helps slow the car and recovers energy for the battery. That means the physical brakes (the pads and discs) are used less often. Sounds great, right?

Well, not entirely. Because they’re used less, the discs and callipers don’t heat up enough to burn off moisture. Over time, that leads to rust and corrosion, especially in our damp Calderdale climate. We often see electric cars come in with seized rear brakes or corroded discs that make horrible grinding noises.

That’s why even electric and hybrid cars still need a proper brake inspection every year — especially before winter. At Pellon Autocentre, our lads are trained and equipped to handle EV and hybrid brake systems, including those with electronic parking brakes and advanced diagnostic systems.

Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention: Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

If you notice any of these, it’s time to pop in for a check:

Squealing or grinding noises

Car pulling to one side under braking

Juddering or vibration when braking

A soft or spongy brake pedal

Warning lights on your dashboard

Don’t ignore them — the longer you wait, the more expensive it can become.

Brake Servicing – How We Do It

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we use quality parts and modern equipment for every brake job. Whether it’s replacing pads, discs, or bleeding the hydraulic system, everything is done to manufacturer standards.

We’ll always give you a full explanation of what needs doing — no surprises, just honest advice. For EVs and hybrids, we check the condition of the regenerative systems and ensure your braking components aren’t seizing due to lack of use.

Our customers appreciate that we don’t just replace parts for the sake of it — if something can be cleaned, freed off, or repaired safely, we’ll do that first.

Local Knowledge, Local Roads- Brake Servicing in the Calderdale Area

Driving around Calderdale brings its own challenges — from the steep climbs up Pellon Lane to the twisting routes around Elland and Brighouse. Having well-maintained brakes gives you confidence and safety on every journey.

That’s why so many local motorists trust Pellon Tyre and Autocentre for their brake servicing and repairs. We’ve built our reputation on honesty, good value, and proper workmanship since 1989.

Book Your Brake Check Today

If you’re not sure when your brakes were last checked, drop by our garage in Halifax or book online at www.pellontyres.co.uk. Whether you drive a Ford Fiesta, a Toyota Hybrid, or a fully electric Nissan Leaf, our team has the right tools and know-how to keep you stopping safely on Calderdale’s hills.