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Johnny's AutomotiveJohnny's Automotive
Lake Wales, FL

Brake Repair at our Lake Wales shop

Bring it to our Lake Wales shop and we'll handle the brake repair. Here's where to find us, when we're open, and how to book a time.

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Lake Wales, FL323 North Scenic HighwayBook a time online
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Where to find our Lake Wales shop

Address, hours, and directions for the shop that handles your brake repair.

Address

323 North Scenic Highway
Lake Wales, FL 33853

Shop phone

(863) 676-3858

Hours

Monday
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Friday
7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Recent Brake Repair Work in Lake Wales

Real jobs completed by our team in the Lake Wales area

Our team

Our Team

September 2026

What Caused the Grinding Brakes?

The Problem

The vehicle owner reported issues with the front brakes and requested a recheck for a dye leak after a recent A/C service.

What We Found

The technician found that the front brake pads and rotors needed replacement, and identified a faulty flow sensor in the A/C system causing a leak.

The Fix

The team replaced the front brake pads and rotors to address the braking issue. For the A/C system, they installed a new compressor with clutch and expansion valve, evacuated and recharged the system, and ensured all components were functioning correctly.

The Result

After the repairs, the vehicle's brakes operated smoothly and the A/C system functioned without leaks.

Pro Tip

Brake pads that grind usually mean the rotors need replacement too. Addressing this early can prevent further damage and higher costs.

Our team

Our Team

September 2026

What Caused the Thumping Noise and Vibration While Driving?

The Problem

The vehicle owner experienced a thumping noise and vibration while driving.

What We Found

The technician discovered that the thumping noise was caused by a failed panel assembly under the vehicle, which had been damaged by an object on the road.

The Fix

The team removed and replaced the damaged under-cover panel assembly. Additionally, they replaced the front disc brake pads and rotors, which were worn beyond their usable life, posing a major safety concern. A final road test was performed to verify the repairs.

The Result

The vehicle was restored to proper working condition, eliminating the thumping noise and ensuring safe braking.

Pro Tip

If you notice a thumping noise or vibration while driving, it could be a sign of damage to the undercarriage. Addressing it promptly can prevent further harm and ensure your vehicle's safety.

Our team

Our Team

August 2026

What Caused the Scraping Noise with the Check Engine Light On?

The Problem

The vehicle owner noticed the check engine light and VSC light were on, accompanied by a scraping noise from the front passenger side.

What We Found

The technician discovered that the front brake pads and rotors were worn down to metal, posing a serious safety concern. Additionally, a failed catalytic converter was identified as the cause of the check engine light.

The Fix

The team replaced the front brake pads and rotors to address the scraping noise and potential caliper failure. They also replaced the failed catalytic converter to resolve the check engine light issue. Additional fluids were used as necessary to complete the repairs, and a final road test verified the effectiveness of the solutions.

The Result

The vehicle was restored to safe driving condition, with no warning lights or unusual noises present.

Pro Tip

If you hear a scraping noise when braking, it's often a sign that your brake pads are worn down to metal. Addressing it quickly can prevent more costly damage to the rotors and calipers.

Our team

Our Team

August 2026

What Caused the Grinding Brakes?

The Problem

The vehicle owner reported a concerning brake issue, noting unusual grinding noises when applying the brakes.

What We Found

The technician found that the front disc brake pads and rotors were worn down to metal-on-metal contact, posing a serious safety concern.

The Fix

The team at our Lake Wales shop replaced the front disc brake pads and rotors, ensuring all components were properly installed and adjusted. Additionally, the rear drum brakes were cleaned and adjusted, and the front lower control arm with ball joint was replaced due to damage. The front CV axle assembly, which was completely torn apart, was also replaced. The technician conducted a thorough road test to verify the repairs.

The Result

The vehicle was restored to safe operating condition, with braking performance significantly improved.

Pro Tip

Grinding noises when braking often indicate severely worn brake pads. Addressing this early can prevent rotor damage, saving you from more expensive repairs.

Reviews

What Lake Wales customers say about our brake repair work

Eddie was a great mechanic and did an excellent job on my car. He was professional, knowledgeable, and got my brakes done quickly. I really appreciate the quality of his work and would definitely recommend Eddie and Johnny’s automotive to anyone looking for a reliable mechanic or shop!!

Manuel Valle

Verified Google Review

Wonderful experience. I couldn’t believe they told me to come on down and they would get me in right away. Dealership was out 2 weeks just to look at it. Ended up water pump leaking on my Tahoe. Fair price, fixed the next day! Going back next week for rear brakes. Clean, friendly and fast! Hit on all cylinders - literally. My new place for sure.

Aaron Bond

Verified Google Review

Great timely repair of brakes and ac

Craig Savant

Verified Google Review

Usually my husband is the one that takes our vehicles to be serviced. But on that particular day I had to take it.Going to auto shops gives me anxiety because from experience they bring you a list of “issues”. I needed a service B on my Mercedes GLA350, which later turned into needing new brake pads. They were so throughout and kind during the entire process. By choice, I spent hours in the lobby doing some work on my lap top. They offered a complimentary ride to any place that I wanted to go, even a loaner car if I decided to go home. The lobby was actually calm with plenty of snacks and refreshments. The gentleman that ran the front of the counter were extremely nice and respectful. Once the car was complete, I had 4 purple roses on my dashboard (This was right before Mother’s Day weekend) Such a kind gesture! My family will be using their services in the future. I’m recommending them to everyone :)

belljm1990

Verified Google Review

Add called about a light for my left brake that was flashing and showing up the sign of not working. I was told by Pep Boys that I was wiring they couldn’t do it so I called Johnny’s automotive. They got me in right away same day and I was on my way and it was something so simple. I really appreciate the service the time they spent and the professionalism that was presented to me on that day of service. They have a fantastic team doing a wonderful job. I would definitely go back for anything. I keep their card with me at home so please visit them. They are great. They will take care of you.

DrA Aimoto

Verified Google Review

While staying in Frostproof, Johnny's opened up here. I needed an oil change and filter, and they completed that service along with a maintenance check. They made some recommendations, but didn't pressure me to have the work performed. Thankfully, the recommendations were for scheduled maintenance such as brakes and filters. They are so friendly and helpful, (especially Sarah who greets you with the greatest smile!), have provided the residents of Frostproof with a reliable and honest service. Thank you!

Pat Cahill

Verified Google Review

FAQ

Brake Repair in Lake Wales: questions answered

Answered by our licensed technicians serving Lake Wales.

How long do brake pads last?

Mileage isn't a reliable answer, which is why we won't give you one. A truck that tows and a car that spends its life on the highway can come in the same week with completely opposite wear. What matters is the measurement, and we check pad thickness at all four corners on every visit so you can watch it come down over time instead of finding out from a noise.

Do I need new rotors every time I replace the pads?

No. Rotors are a thickness and condition call, not an automatic add-on. If there's enough material left above the manufacturer's minimum and the surface is even, resurfacing gives the new pads a true face to bed into and the rotor stays on the car. We replace rotors when they're near minimum thickness, deeply grooved, cracked, or heat spotted, and we show you the measurement either way.

Why are my new brakes squeaking?

Some noise in the first few hundred miles is normal while fresh pads bed in and transfer an even layer of material to the rotor. A light squeal on the first stop of a humid morning is usually surface rust burning off the rotor face, and it clears in a stop or two. What isn't normal is a squeal that's still there weeks later, or any grinding. Bring it back and we'll pull the wheels and look.

What determines the cost of a brake job?

Mostly four things: which axle needs the work, whether it's pads only or pads and rotors, whether the rotors can be resurfaced or need replacing, and what the vehicle takes (some newer cars need a scan tool to retract an electronic parking brake before the pads come out). Calipers and hoses only get added when they're actually failed. That's why the inspection comes first: we measure, send you the photos, and give you a number to approve before anything gets touched.

Can I keep driving if my brakes are grinding?

Grinding usually means the friction material is gone and the pad backing is riding on the rotor. The car will still stop, but it takes longer, and every stop is cutting the rotor deeper, which turns a pad replacement into pads and rotors. It's worth getting in soon rather than driving on it for another month.

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