Does Walmart Replace Brake Pads? (Do This Instead)
The short answer is no, Walmart does not currently perform brake pad replacement services in their Auto Centers. However, they offer several alternative options to purchase affordable brake parts and have the work completed conveniently.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting your brake pads changed through Walmart or other providers, including:
- Buying pads, rotors & parts at Walmart
- Walmart‘s at-home brake pad service
- Cost comparisons and price breakdowns
- Symptoms that indicate pad replacement is needed
- Expert tips for DIY brake jobs
- Recommended brake part brands and tools
- Alternative brake service providers
- Additional Walmart Auto Center offerings
Follow along for advice to save on your next brake job!
Why Brake Pad Replacement Matters
Before diving into where and how to get your brake pads replaced, let’s overview why fresh pads are so important for safety and performance.
Brake pads are a normal "wear item" on vehicles – they gradually get thinner as you put miles on the car. brand new pads are usually 10-12mm thick. By the time they wear down to 2-3mm, replacement is crucial.
Worn, thin pads lead to:
Longer stopping distances
Reduced braking power
Brake failure or complete loss of braking
Damage to rotors, calipers and other components
In fact, worn brake pads account for up to 30% of all vehicle accidents according to the Auto Care Association. Proper pad maintenance and timely replacement helps avoid catastrophic brake failure.
So inspect your pads regularly and watch for signs that new ones are needed. Replacing pads promptly extends the life of the entire braking system too.
Can You Buy Brake Parts at Walmart?
While Walmart doesn’t do in-store brake pad installation, you can purchase all the equipment you’ll need:
Brake Pads
Walmart sells all the most common brake pad sets for both front and rear axles. Prices range from $20-$40 per axle depending on vehicle make/model. Brands include AutoCraft, Bosch, Raybestos, Wagner and more.
Brake Rotors
Rotors should be replaced when pad thickness is low to prevent uneven wear. Walmart sells rotors from $20-$100 each.
Brake Calipers
If calipers are sticking or leaking fluid, Walmart stocks replacements from $40-$150 each.
Buying parts at Walmart can save up to 40% over auto parts stores. See a price comparison:
| Part | Walmart Price | AutoZone Price |
|---|---|---|
| Front & Rear Pads | $120 | $200 |
| 2 Front Rotors | $160 | $250 |
| 1 Caliper | $90 | $150 |
| Total | $370 | $600 |
As long as you purchase quality components, Walmart‘s prices can‘t be beaten! We‘ll cover how to select the right parts later in this guide.
Walmart‘s At-Home Brake Replacement Service
Rather than replace pads yourself, Walmart offers an at-home brake service starting at $160 per axle, with free quotes available.
Here‘s how it works:
Request a Quote: Enter your vehicle info via the Wrench app or website.
Schedule Service: Book your brake appointment at home or work.
Pay Walmart: The mechanic will arrive and complete the brake service at your location. Pay safely and conveniently through Walmart.
This mobile brake service provides professional installation without you having to leave the house. It also includes a 12-month, 12,000 mile warranty for peace of mind.
However, pricing is on the high side compared to independent mechanics. With DIY parts from Walmart, you can save substantially.
Cost Comparison of Brake Service Options
To show potential savings, here‘s a full price breakdown of brake pad replacement by provider:
| Provider | Parts Cost | Labor Rate | Total for Pads & Rotors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealership | $300+ | $150/hr | $700+ |
| Midas | $200 | $100/hr | $500 |
| Walmart At-Home | n/a | $160/axle | $320+ |
| DIY w/Walmart parts | $160 | n/a | $160 |
As you can see, sourcing pads and rotors from Walmart and doing the work yourself or hiring an independent mechanic can greatly reduce the cost of a brake job.
But for many car owners, the convenience and certainty of Walmart‘s at-home service provides peace of mind despite higher prices.
When Do Brake Pads Need Replacement?
Watch for these signs your brake pads need attention:
- High-pitched squealing or grinding noise while braking
- Brake pedal vibrates or pulsates when applied
- Brake pedal sinks all the way to floor with reduced stopping power
- Brake pedal feels soft or spongy rather than firm
- Illumination of “Check Brakes” or "Check Brake Fluid" warning lights
- Increased stopping distance – brakes less responsive
Worn pads start degrading braking performance long before complete failure, so address issues immediately. If your pads are nearing 3mm in thickness or less, replacement is likely needed.
Regularly inspect pad thickness and condition yourself or during oil changes to stay ahead of problems before they occur. Refer to your vehicle owner‘s manual for pad measurement instructions.
Expert Tips for DIY Brake Jobs
While I recommend having an experienced mechanic replace pads if you‘re not technical, it is possible to DIY brake service with the right preparation:
Buy a brake pad & rotor kit with quality parts needed for the complete job
Use a C-clamp to push caliper pistons back into place
Clean caliper & rotor surfaces with brake cleaner before installing new pads
Lubricate caliper pins with silicone paste to prevent sticking
Pump brake pedal to restore proper pad-rotor clearance after service
Purchase a brake bleeder kit if flushing old fluid from the system
I‘ve personally had great experiences buying value brake kits from PowerStop and using their detailed install guides. A little mechanical ability can save over $300 on parts & labor per axle!
Recommended Brake Parts & Brands
I advise Walmart shoppers to stick with name brand pads from quality manufacturers:
Brake Pads: Bosch, Wagner, Raybestos, PowerStop, ACDelco
Rotors: Bosch, PowerStop, Raybestos, Wagner, AC Delco
Calipers: AC Delco, Carquest, Raybestos, Centric
Lesser known brands can cut corners on materials and durability. Spending a few extra dollars buys peace of mind from quality control and engineering.
Also be cautious of "white box" generics – make sure the packaging lists a reputable manufacturer, not just "Made in China."
Buying the right brake components from the start prevents premature wear, noise issues and other problems down the road.
Finding a Trustworthy Mobile Mechanic
While Walmart offers at-home brake service through Wrench, you can also hire a mobile mechanic directly and supply your own DIY parts.
Here are tips for picking a qualified pro:
Search YourAreaMechanic.com – Pre-vetted local mechanics rated and reviewed
Confirm certifications & insurance – ASE, AAA approved, bonded, insured
Check pricing transparency – Flat rates, no hidden fees
Read reviews & ratings – Google, Facebook, Yelp
Ask for referrals – Friends, car clubs, Nextdoor neighbors
I’ve used YourMechanic.com successfully several times for brake jobs with quality technicians. Do your homework to pick the best mobile mechanic for your needs.
Pair With Preventative Maintenance Services
One final professional tip – have new brake pads installed when you already have the wheels off for tire rotation and alignment service.
Most shops charge $20-$30 for tire rotation or an alignment. Doing so in conjunction with a DIY brake job saves big on labor costs:
Rotate tires & replace pads in one appointment
Align the wheels after new pads & rotors are installed
Grouping maintenance procedures together is an easy way to maximize savings, since labor fees account for most of the expense.
Other Walmart Auto Services
While Walmart doesn’t replace brake pads in-store, their Auto Centers do provide these convenient offerings:
Tires: Installation, rotation, balancing, lifetime balance & rotation
Battery: Testing, replacement installations
Oil changes: Conventional, synthetic, high-mileage options
Fluid services: Transmission, cooling system, power steering, etc.
Lights: Headlight restore service, bulb replacement
Wipers: Installation & replacement of windshield wipers
Electrical: Car stereo installs, remote starts, backup cameras
I’ve found Walmart’s maintenance services to be affordable and reliable. Their technicians are trained and certified as well.
Does Walmart Replace Brake Pads? The Bottom Line
Walmart does not currently perform brake pad replacements in their Auto Service Centers.
However, buying pads and other parts at Walmart for DIY service or a mobile mechanic can save over 50% compared to dealers and shops.
Watch for signs of thin, worn pads and replace them promptly to avoid safety hazards. Consider using Walmart‘s at-home brake service for convenience or learn to DIY with quality components.
With the right parts and know-how, Walmart empowers drivers to save big on this essential maintenance task. Reach out with any questions!
