Calling all car experts

My brakes are squealing when I apply the brakes. Does this mean new brake pads are needed, vs. just checking brake fluid?
If so anyone know the approximate price of a brake pad job?

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calicuz · 56-60, M

Could be dust, but most likely the brake pads need replacing. Shop around for a decent price on replacing them. Brake pad replacement is one of the biggest scams in the auto repair industry. The parts may cost as little as 50 dollars and it only takes an hour to change both front and back, but shops can start pricing at 300 dollars.

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@calicuz Right I'm looking online and some say they were charged 600 ....oh man!!

calicuz · 56-60, M

@Coralmist

That's horrible. Try smaller shops where the owner and mechanics are just trying to make a living and not get rich.

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@calicuz I do have a trustworthy mechanic I go to occasionally.. hopefully the quote will be reasonable. Ty cali🪻