Reliable Brake Service & Repair in Des Moines, Ankeny & West Des Moines, IA
When it comes to safety, your brakes are the most critical system on your vehicle. Whether you’re slowing down at a stoplight or making an emergency stop, your brakes need to respond fast and reliably. At Honest Wrenches, we provide expert brake repair in Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines, IA so you can drive with peace of mind.
If your car is squeaking, grinding, or taking longer to stop, don’t wait. Our trusted brake shop offers quick, thorough diagnostics and repairs using top-quality parts. Whether you need new brake pads, rotors, or a full brake service, our ASE-certified technicians will get the job done right the first time.
Honest Wrenches Is Your Trusted Local Brake Shop
At Honest Wrenches, we believe in doing things the honest way—clear communication, no pressure, and repairs you can trust. We’re not here to sell you parts you don’t need. We’re here to keep you and your family safe with professional brake service that’s efficient, affordable, and accurate.
What makes us different from other brake shops?
- ASE-certified technicians with years of brake system experience
- State-of-the-art tools and brake diagnostic equipment
- OEM and premium aftermarket brake parts
- Transparent digital inspections with technician notes and photos
- 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty
- No-pressure recommendations and honest estimates
- Three convenient locations: Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines
- Shuttle service and after-hours drop-off available
We’ve built our reputation by treating customers like family and treating cars like our own.
Full-Service Brake Repair & Maintenance
From routine maintenance to complex diagnostics, we offer complete brake services for all makes and models. Whether your vehicle needs new brake pads, rotors, or hydraulic repairs, you can count on us for expert workmanship and fast turnaround.
Our brake repair services include:
- Brake pad and rotor replacement
- Brake caliper repair and replacement
- Brake fluid flush and replacement
- Master cylinder diagnostics and replacement
- ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) diagnostics
- Brake line inspection and repair
- Parking brake service and adjustments
- Drum and shoe brake service (for older models)
We’ll inspect your entire system, explain what’s working, what’s worn, and what can wait—so you stay informed and in control.
Signs You Need Brake Service
Don’t ignore the signs of brake trouble. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur—and the more expensive the repairs may be. Catching issues early helps keep you safer on the road and saves you money.
Warning signs include:
- Squeaking or squealing when you brake
- Grinding noises or metal-on-metal sound
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Vehicle pulling to one side when braking
- Brake pedal vibration or pulsation
- ABS light or brake warning light on the dashboard
- Longer stopping distances
- Burning smell near the wheels after driving
- Visible fluid leaking near the wheels
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, stop by for a quick inspection. We’ll perform a full brake evaluation and recommend only what you need—no upselling, just honest answers.
The Importance of Replacing Brake Pads on Time
Your brake pads are designed to wear down over time. But if you let them go too long, you risk damaging your rotors, calipers, and even compromising your safety.
Why timely pad replacement matters:
- Prevents damage to more expensive components
- Maintains proper stopping power and performance
- Keeps rotor surfaces smooth and clean
- Improves braking comfort and pedal feel
- Reduces the risk of brake failure under load or speed
- Ensures your car meets safety standards
At Honest Wrenches, we measure your pad thickness and let you know exactly when it’s time to replace them—no guessing or scare tactics.
Brake Rotor Resurfacing vs. Replacement
Depending on their condition, rotors can either be resurfaced or replaced. We inspect them for wear, warping, cracks, and scoring to determine the best option.
We’ll recommend:
- Rotor resurfacing when:
- Rotors are still within minimum thickness specs
- There’s minor surface wear or unevenness
- You’re on a budget and rotors are still structurally sound
- Rotor replacement when:
- They are below minimum thickness
- They are cracked, warped, or severely grooved
- You want the smoothest braking performance possible
Our team will explain both options so you can make a decision based on your vehicle’s condition and your budget.
What’s Included in a Brake Inspection?
Our brake inspections are thorough and honest. We look at every part of your braking system, from the pedal to the pads, to make sure you get a complete picture of your car’s condition.
A typical brake inspection includes:
- Measurement of pad/shoe thickness
- Rotor and drum wear and condition
- Brake fluid condition and level
- Inspection of brake lines and hoses for leaks or corrosion
- Evaluation of calipers, hardware, and master cylinder
- ABS system scan (if needed)
- Brake pedal function and travel test
- Road test to evaluate performance
Once we’ve completed the inspection, we’ll walk you through a digital report with photos and recommendations so you can feel confident in your next step.
Serving All Makes & Models
We provide brake service for nearly every make and model on the road today. From commuter sedans and family SUVs to light-duty trucks and hybrids, we have the parts and expertise to keep your braking system in peak shape.
Common vehicle types we service:
- Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Honda, Nissan
- Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, RAM
- Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda
- BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen
- Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, and more
Whether you have standard disc brakes or a more complex ABS system, we’ll take care of it with precision and attention to detail.
What People Also Ask About Brake Service
How long do brake pads last?
Most brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and pad material. We’ll measure yours and let you know exactly where you stand.
Why is my steering wheel shaking when I brake?
This is often due to warped rotors. We’ll inspect your system and determine whether resurfacing or replacement is needed.
How much does brake repair cost?
Costs vary based on the type of vehicle and parts needed. We’ll provide an accurate, transparent estimate before starting any work.
Can I drive with worn brake pads?
It’s not recommended. Worn pads reduce stopping power and can damage rotors, increasing repair costs and safety risks.
Do you offer warranties on brake repairs?
Yes! Most brake repairs come with our 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty, so you can drive with confidence.
Schedule Brake Repair in Des Moines, Ankeny & West Des Moines Today
If your brakes aren’t performing like they should, don’t wait another mile. Whether you’re hearing squeaks, feeling vibrations, or just want peace of mind, Honest Wrenches is the brake shop you can trust. We proudly serve Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines with expert brake service, professional diagnostics, and quality brake pad replacements done with integrity.
Schedule your appointment online today or stop by one of our convenient locations. Let Honest Wrenches keep you—and everyone around you—safe on the road.
Honest Wrenches—where brake service meets honesty, safety, and peace of mind.