New brakes are reconditioned or upgraded braking systems on a car.
The technical definition of “new brakes” may vary from shop to shop because entire braking systems are rarely replaced as a unit. “Brakes” is a generic term that covers key components but is generally understood to mean the business end of the system – the discs and pads on a disc brake system or the brake shoes and pads on a drum brake system.
Properly operating brakes enhance safety, and are an essential feature for any vehicle. A complete brake system consists of many parts, some of which are engineered to last the life of your car and only need attention when damaged or worn due to unusual circumstances. However, discs, pads, and shoes are considered wear items and need to be inspected and reconditioned or replaced following a maintenance schedule.
If a listing touts a car as having “new brakes,” further investigation will be necessary to determine which system components are new or reconditioned. Learn more about brake repair.
