Your guide to Brake Pad, Rotors, and fluid replacement
When your brakes start squeaking, pulsing, or feeling soft, it’s normal to wonder: Is it time for new pads? Do I really need rotors too? What about brake fluid? This guide answers those questions clearly, gives you real cost ranges for sedans, SUVs, and trucks, and shows why our NAPA-backed warranty makes Kings Auto a shop you can trust.
Do Squeaky Brakes Always Mean I Need New Pads?
Not always. Squeaks can come from:
- Worn brake pads
- Hardware or backing plates rubbing
- A rock or debris caught in the brakes
But don’t ignore brake noise. Even if it’s just a pebble, squeaking means something isn’t right. An inspection catches small issues before they turn into bigger ones.
Why We Replace Pads and Rotors Together
Some shops resurface rotors, but at Kings Auto we replace them with the pads. Here’s why:
- You get full life out of both parts. Fresh pads + fresh rotors = ~50,000 miles of safe driving.
- Resurfacing thins rotors, which makes warping more likely.
- Sometimes rotors don’t have enough thickness left. Installing new pads on thin rotors risks early failure.
Brake Service is a standard service that we perform on vehicles everyday here at Kings Auto Center.
Don’t Forget the Brake Fluid
Brake fluid transfers pressure from your foot to the brakes. But it’s hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. Over time that lowers its boiling point, corrodes parts, and makes the pedal feel soft.
- Change interval: Every 2–3 years (or ~30,000–45,000 miles), depending on your vehicle and driving.
- Cost: Around $90–$150 locally for a flush.
- Why it matters: Even if it looks clear, moisture inside the fluid can still cause issues.
How Much Does Brake Service Cost in Fort Collins?
Brake jobs are usually priced per axle (front or rear). If both front and rear need service, costs roughly double (sometimes with a small discount for doing all four).
Per axle (pads + rotors):
- Sedans: $400–$650
- SUVs / crossovers (like Subarus): $500–$800
- Trucks / heavy-duty pickups: $600–$900+
Add $90–$150 for a brake fluid flush.
FAQs We Hear All the Time: Brakes & Rotors
Why do new brakes squeak?
New pads sometimes squeak during the break-in period. If it lasts longer, it could be hardware or installation. Bring it back for a check.
How long do pads and rotors last?
About 50,000 miles on average, but mountain driving, towing, and stop-and-go shorten that.
Can I replace just the pads?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Old rotors can wear new pads unevenly and cause vibration.
How often should brake fluid be changed?
Every 2–3 years in most vehicles, regardless of appearance.
Check out our FAQ Series on youtube
The Kings Auto Warranty Advantage
We’re part of the NAPA AutoCare Center network, which means your repair comes with the Peace of Mind Warranty:
- Covers parts and labor for 24 months / 24,000 miles
- Honored at over 14,000 locations nationwide
- With NAPA EasyPay, many services qualify for 36 months / 36,000 miles coverage
For you, that means peace of mind. Whether you’re driving around Fort Collins or road-tripping across the country, you know your brakes are protected.
Review the NAPA AutoCare 24/24 Peace Of Mind® Warranty Terms and Conditions here
Your brakes aren’t something to guess about. If you’re hearing squeaks, feeling vibration, or it’s been a while since your last service, stop by Kings Auto Center. We’ll check your pads, rotors, and fluid and back it with a nationwide warranty.
