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Your brakes are your vehicle’s most critical safety system. When brake warning lights appear, brakes feel spongy, or you hear unusual noises, you need expert brake specialists who understand modern braking systems. Our Luton workshop provides comprehensive brake repairs, ABS diagnostics, and electronic parking brake services for all makes and models.
Why Choose Our Brake Repair Specialists?
Modern vehicles feature sophisticated braking systems including ABS, ESP, electronic parking brakes, and brake assist technologies. These systems require specialist knowledge, diagnostic equipment, and proper training to service correctly. Our highly experienced and trained technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair all brake system faults accurately.
Brake warning lights on? Call 01582 733036 for expert diagnosis
Why Customers Choose Our Brake Service
✓ Highly Trained Brake Specialists
- Extensive training on modern braking systems
- Years of hands-on experience with brake repairs
- Expert knowledge of ABS, ESP, and EPB systems
- Regular training updates on latest brake technologies
- Educated in brake system diagnostics and fault codes
- Manufacturer-level diagnostic capabilities
✓ Advanced Brake Diagnostics
- Professional diagnostic equipment for all makes
- ABS and ESP system scanning
- Electronic parking brake diagnostics
- Brake fluid quality testing
- Brake pad wear measurement
- Disc thickness measurement
- Hydraulic system pressure testing
✓ Comprehensive Brake Services
- Brake pad and disc replacement
- Electronic parking brake repairs
- ABS module repairs and coding
- Brake fluid replacement
- Brake caliper replacement and servicing
- Handbrake adjustments and repairs
- Master cylinder and servo repairs
- Complete hydraulic system repairs
✓ Quality Parts & Materials
- Premium brake pads and discs
- Quality brake fluid (DOT 4/DOT 5.1)
- OEM and high-quality aftermarket parts
- Genuine parts available where required
- All parts meet or exceed manufacturer standards
✓ Transparent Service
- Clear quotes before work begins
- No hidden fees or surprises
- Honest assessment of brake condition
- Only necessary work recommended
- 12-month warranty on all brake work
- Free brake inspection with every service
Common Brake Problems We Diagnose & Repair
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Faults
Electronic parking brakes have become standard on modern vehicles but can develop specific faults requiring specialist knowledge.
Common EPB Symptoms:
- EPB warning light flashing or illuminated
- “Service parking brake” messages
- EPB not engaging or releasing
- Unusual noises during EPB operation
- EPB activating unexpectedly
- Cannot release EPB
Common EPB Fault Codes:
- C1A91 – Electronic Parking Brake Motor Circuit Malfunction
- C1A04 – EPB System Performance Problem
- C1A06 – EPB Control Module Internal Malfunction
- C1A17 – EPB Switch Circuit Malfunction
- C1A31 – EPB Actuator Position Sensor Circuit
How We Diagnose EPB Faults:
- Connect professional diagnostic equipment
- Read all fault codes from EPB control module
- Monitor live data during EPB operation
- Test EPB motor electrical circuits
- Check mechanical operation of EPB system
- Inspect brake calipers and cables
Hyundai & Kia EPB Problems – Our Specialist Expertise:
We see a very common problem in Hyundai and Kia vehicles, especially modern models from 2016 onwards – faulty electric parking brake motors mounted in the brake calipers.
Symptoms:
- EPB light flashing on dashboard
- Unable to release parking brake
- Grinding noise from rear brakes
- “Check EPB system” warning message
The Problem: The EPB motor integrated into the rear brake caliper fails, often due to moisture ingress or motor wear. Hyundai and Kia supply the motor and caliper as one complete unit – they cannot be separated.
Our Solution:
- Accurate diagnosis using diagnostic equipment
- Replacement of complete rear brake caliper with integrated EPB motor
- Proper EPB system calibration and setup
- System testing to ensure correct operation
- Both sides often replaced for even operation
Models Commonly Affected:
- Hyundai Tucson (2016+)
- Hyundai Santa Fe (2016+)
- Hyundai i30 (2017+)
- Hyundai Ioniq (2016+)
- Hyundai Kona (2017+)
- Kia Sportage (2016+)
- Kia Sorento (2016+)
- Kia Ceed (2018+)
- Kia Niro (2016+)
- Kia Stonic (2017+)
- And other modern Hyundai/Kia models with integrated EPB calipers
We have extensive experience repairing Hyundai and Kia EPB systems and keep relevant parts in stock where possible.
ABS Warning Light & Unusual ABS Behavior
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) faults can compromise your safety and must be diagnosed properly.
Common ABS Symptoms:
- ABS warning light illuminated
- ESP/traction control light on
- Unusual brake behavior
- Pulsating brake pedal when not braking
- Intermittent braking without touching pedal
- Loss of ABS function
Common ABS Fault Codes:
- C0035 – Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- C0040 – Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- C0045 – Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- C0050 – Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- C0265 – ABS Hydraulic Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction
- C1095 – ABS Hydraulic Pump Motor Circuit Performance
- C0200 – ABS Control Module Internal Malfunction
How We Diagnose ABS Faults:
- Comprehensive ABS system scan
- Read all stored and pending fault codes
- Monitor wheel speed sensor data during road test
- Check ABS pump operation
- Inspect wheel speed sensors and tone rings
- Test electrical circuits and connections
- Measure brake fluid contamination
Common ABS Problem in BMW & VAG (Audi, VW, Seat, Skoda):
We frequently diagnose unusual ABS behavior and intermittent braking in BMW and VAG Group vehicles, especially when the brake pedal pulsates or the vehicle brakes momentarily without driver input.
The Common Cause: Contaminated Brake Fluid
German vehicles with advanced ABS and ESP systems are particularly sensitive to brake fluid contamination. When brake fluid absorbs moisture over time (brake fluid is hygroscopic), it causes:
- Corrosion inside ABS pump and valves
- Reduced boiling point of brake fluid
- False signals from the ABS system
- Intermittent brake application
- ABS activating inappropriately
Our Solution:
- Complete brake fluid flush and replacement
- Use of quality DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid
- Proper bleeding of entire brake system
- ABS system bleeding using diagnostic equipment
- Testing after fluid replacement
Prevention: Brake fluid replacement every 2 years on BMW and VAG vehicles prevents this problem.
Seized Brake Calipers – A Winter Problem
This is an extremely common problem we see during winter months, especially when temperatures drop below freezing.
Symptoms:
- Vehicle pulling to one side when braking
- Excessive brake heat on one wheel
- Burning smell from brakes
- Reduced fuel economy
- Handbrake not releasing fully
- Brake warning light (in severe cases)
Common Causes:
- Old contaminated brake fluid – The primary cause
- Corroded caliper pistons
- Seized caliper slide pins
- Moisture in brake system freezing
- Lack of regular brake servicing
- Salt and road grime buildup
Why It Happens More in Winter:
When brake fluid hasn’t been changed for several years, it absorbs significant moisture. In freezing temperatures:
- Moisture in brake fluid can freeze
- Corroded pistons seize more easily
- Slide pins freeze in place
- Caliper mechanisms become sluggish
- Brake pads stick to discs
Our Solution:
- Diagnose which calipers are seized
- Replace seized brake calipers
- Service and lubricate caliper slide pins
- Complete brake fluid replacement
- Inspect and replace brake pads and discs if damaged
- Thorough testing after repair
Prevention:
- Regular brake fluid changes prevent seized calipers
- We recommend brake fluid replacement every 2 years
- Annual brake inspections catch problems early
Brake Pad & Disc Wear
Common Symptoms:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Reduced braking performance
- Longer stopping distances
- Brake pedal pulsation
- Brake warning light
- Visible disc scoring or rust
Brake Wear Fault Codes:
- Many modern vehicles have wear sensors that trigger warnings when pads are low
- These sensors must be replaced with new brake pads
How We Assess Brake Wear:
- Measure brake pad thickness accurately
- Measure disc thickness against minimum specification
- Check for uneven wear patterns
- Inspect for scoring, cracks, or warping
- Assess brake pad material condition
Our Brake Replacement Service:
- Quality brake pads suitable for your vehicle
- Brake disc replacement when required
- Proper bedding-in procedures
- Brake pad wear sensor replacement
- System cleaning and lubrication
- Road test to verify performance
Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal
Common Causes:
- Air in brake hydraulic system
- Brake fluid leak
- Worn master cylinder
- Leaking brake caliper seals
- Perished brake hoses
- Old contaminated brake fluid
Our Diagnostic Process:
- Pressure test brake system for leaks
- Inspect all brake lines and hoses
- Check master cylinder operation
- Test brake servo operation
- Brake fluid quality assessment
Our Solution:
- Locate and repair any leaks
- Complete brake system bleeding
- Replace master cylinder if faulty
- Replace perished brake hoses
- Fresh brake fluid throughout system
Brake Fluid Service
Why Brake Fluid Replacement Matters:
Brake fluid is hygroscopic – it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This causes:
- Reduced boiling point (brake fade risk)
- Internal corrosion of brake components
- ABS pump damage
- Seized brake calipers
- Expensive repairs
Our Brake Fluid Service:
- Complete brake fluid flush
- Quality DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid
- Bleeding of all brake calipers
- ABS system bleeding where required
- Brake fluid quality testing
- System inspection during service
Recommended Interval: Every 2 years for all vehicles
This simple service prevents expensive brake system failures, especially in winter.
Brake System Fault Codes We Diagnose
Common Brake-Related Fault Codes:
ABS Codes:
- C0035-C0050: Wheel speed sensor faults
- C0265: ABS pump motor circuit fault
- C0200: ABS control module fault
- C1095: ABS pump performance
Electronic Parking Brake Codes:
- C1A91: EPB motor circuit fault
- C1A04: EPB system performance
- C1A06: EPB module internal fault
- C1A31: EPB actuator sensor circuit
Brake System Codes:
- C2100-C2106: Brake pressure sensor faults
- C0035: Left front wheel speed sensor
- C0121: Valve control circuit faults
- C0550: ECU internal fault
How We Use Fault Codes:
- Read all brake system fault codes
- Interpret codes in context of symptoms
- Use codes to guide physical inspection
- Don’t rely solely on codes – verify with testing
- Clear codes after repairs and road test
Fault codes guide diagnosis but don’t replace proper testing and inspection. Our trained technicians understand this critical difference.
Our Brake Repair Process
Step 1: Free Brake Inspection
- Visual inspection of brake components
- Brake pad thickness measurement
- Brake disc condition assessment
- Brake fluid level and quality check
- Initial road test if safe
Step 2: Diagnostic Scanning (If Warning Lights Present)
- Connect professional diagnostic equipment
- Read all brake system fault codes
- Monitor live data from ABS/EPB systems
- Test individual components electronically
- Road test with data monitoring
Step 3: Clear Explanation
We explain findings in straightforward language:
- What’s wrong with your brakes
- Why the problem occurred
- Safety implications
- Repair options available
- Written estimate before proceeding
Step 4: Expert Repairs
- Use quality parts and correct procedures
- Proper torque specifications applied
- Brake system bleeding where required
- Electronic systems calibrated correctly
- Thorough cleaning and lubrication
Step 5: Testing & Quality Checks
- Road test to verify repairs
- Brake performance testing
- ABS/EPB system testing
- Final visual inspection
- Clear all fault codes
Most brake repairs completed same day
Brake Services by Vehicle Make
VAG Group (Audi, VW, Seat, Skoda) Brakes
Common Issues:
- Electronic parking brake faults
- Contaminated brake fluid causing ABS issues
- Seized rear calipers
- Brake pad wear sensors
Our Expertise:
- VCDS diagnostics for brake systems
- EPB calibration and servicing
- Experience with all VAG brake systems
Mercedes-Benz Brakes
Common Issues:
- Sensotronic brake system faults
- Brake pad wear sensors
- SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) problems on older models
- Electronic parking brake issues
Our Expertise:
- Mercedes Star Diagnosis for brake systems
- SBC system knowledge
- Brake system coding and adaptation
BMW Brakes
Common Issues:
- ABS activation due to contaminated fluid
- Electronic parking brake faults
- DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) issues
- Brake pad wear sensors
Our Expertise:
- BMW brake system diagnostics
- Complete brake fluid service
- Experience with all BMW brake technologies
Hyundai & Kia Brakes
Common Issues:
- Electronic parking brake faults
- ABS sensor faults
- Rear brake caliper problems
Our Expertise:
- Specialist knowledge of Hyundai/Kia EPB systems
- Stock EPB calipers for common models
- Proper EPB calibration procedures
Ford Brakes
Common Issues:
- Electronic parking brake faults
- Rear brake binding
- ABS sensor failures
- Brake servo issues
Our Expertise:
- Ford IDS diagnostics for brake systems
- EPB servicing and calibration
- Experience with all Ford models
Japanese Vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda)
Common Issues:
- Generally reliable brake systems
- Standard brake wear and servicing
- ABS sensor faults in older vehicles
- Brake caliper seizure in winter
Our Expertise:
- Comprehensive service for all Japanese makes
- Quality parts maintaining reliability
Brake Warning Signs – Don’t Ignore These
Immediate Attention Required:
- Brake warning light illuminated
- ABS or ESP light on
- Grinding noise from brakes
- Brake pedal goes to floor
- Vehicle pulls severely when braking
- Burning smell from brakes
- Steam or smoke from wheels
Schedule Service Soon:
- Squealing noise from brakes
- Brake pedal feels spongy
- Longer stopping distances
- Brake pedal pulsates
- Handbrake requires excessive travel
- EPB warning messages
- Brake fluid dark or contaminated
Ignoring brake problems risks your safety and leads to more expensive repairs
Brake Service Pricing Guide
Brake Pad Replacement (per axle):
- Front brake pads: From £80-150 (parts and labour)
- Rear brake pads: From £70-130 (parts and labour)
- Prices vary by vehicle make and pad quality
Brake Disc Replacement (per axle):
- Front discs and pads: From £150-300
- Rear discs and pads: From £130-250
Brake Fluid Replacement:
- Complete brake fluid service: £60-90
- Includes system flush and bleeding
Electronic Parking Brake Repairs:
- EPB motor/caliper (Hyundai/Kia): £250-400 per side
- EPB calibration: £40-60
- Varies by vehicle complexity
ABS Repairs:
- Wheel speed sensor: £80-150 per sensor
- ABS pump: £400-800 (varies significantly by vehicle)
Prices are approximate – we provide exact quotes after inspection
What Our Customers Say
“I recently visited this auto service for brake repair and an MOT, and I couldn’t be more impressed. The team was professional and thorough. Highly recommended.”
– Daniele Bianchi, Google Review
“Took my Kia Sportage with flashing EPB light. They diagnosed the faulty parking brake motor in the caliper and explained it’s a common Kia problem. Replaced both rear calipers and calibrated the system. Works perfectly now. Finally found someone who knows these cars.”
– Local Customer
“My BMW had intermittent ABS activation for no reason. Took it to three garages and nobody could fix it. Dudley Auto diagnosed contaminated brake fluid causing the problem. Complete fluid change and it’s been perfect for months. Expert diagnosis saved me a fortune.”
– BMW Owner, St Albans
“Brakes seized on my car during the cold snap. Brought it to Dudley Auto and they explained old brake fluid was the cause. Replaced seized calipers, fitted new pads, and did complete fluid change. Professional service and honest explanation.”
– Local Customer
Service Areas We Cover
Primary Location: Luton and surrounding areas
We regularly provide brake repair services for customers from:
- Hitchin
- St Albans
- Welwyn Garden City
- Dunstable
- Harpenden
- Stevenage
- Watford
- Hemel Hempstead
- Milton Keynes
Over 600 satisfied customers served
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should brake pads be replaced?
A: Brake pad life varies from 20,000-60,000 miles depending on driving style, vehicle type, and pad quality. We measure pad thickness during inspection.
Q: How often should brake fluid be changed?
A: We recommend every 2 years for all vehicles. This prevents seized calipers, ABS problems, and expensive repairs, especially in winter.
Q: Why is my EPB light flashing on my Hyundai/Kia?
A: This commonly indicates a failed EPB motor in the rear caliper. The motor and caliper are supplied as one unit and need replacement together. We have extensive experience with this issue across Hyundai and Kia models.
Q: Can contaminated brake fluid really cause ABS problems?
A: Yes. Old brake fluid absorbs moisture causing internal corrosion in the ABS pump, leading to intermittent brake application and false ABS activation. We see this regularly on BMW and VAG vehicles.
Q: Why do brake calipers seize in winter?
A: The primary cause is old brake fluid that has absorbed moisture. When temperatures drop, moisture can freeze and corroded pistons seize more easily. Regular brake fluid changes prevent this.
Q: How long do brake repairs take?
A: Brake pad replacement: 1-2 hours. Brake discs and pads: 2-3 hours. EPB repairs: 2-4 hours. Most brake work completed same day.
Q: Do you use genuine brake parts?
A: We use quality OEM and premium aftermarket brake parts that meet or exceed manufacturer specifications. Genuine parts available where required or requested.
Q: Can you repair my ABS pump?
A: We diagnose ABS system faults. Many ABS issues are caused by sensors, wiring, or contaminated fluid – not the pump itself. If the pump is faulty, replacement is usually required.
Q: What brake fluid do you use?
A: We use quality DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid depending on manufacturer specifications. Using correct fluid is essential for brake system longevity.
Q: Should I replace brake discs with pads?
A: Not always. We measure disc thickness and condition. If discs are within specification and not damaged, pads alone can be replaced. We provide honest recommendations.
Q: Can you calibrate electronic parking brakes?
A: Yes, we have the diagnostic equipment to calibrate and service EPB systems on all makes including Hyundai, Kia, VAG, BMW, Mercedes, and Ford.
Q: How do I book brake repairs?
A: Book online through our 24/7 booking system or call 01582 733036 for urgent brake issues or questions.
Book Your Brake Repair Today
Don’t compromise on safety. Our highly trained brake specialists, advanced diagnostic equipment, and years of experience ensure your brakes are repaired properly. From routine brake servicing to complex ABS and EPB faults, we have the expertise to keep you safe on the road.
Expert Brake Diagnostics
ABS & EPB Specialists
Same-Day Service Available
Hyundai/Kia EPB Experts
Winter Seized Caliper Repairs
Easy Online Booking
Book your brake inspection or repair online 24/7 with instant confirmation.
Book Online: Visit our booking page for convenient online scheduling
Urgent Brake Problems?
For urgent brake repairs or safety concerns, call us directly:
Call Now: ✆ 01582 733036
WhatsApp: ✆ 079 75 71 5333
Email: info@dudleyautoservice.co.uk
Visit Us: 45 Dudley Street, Luton, LU2 0NP, UK
Open: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
