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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Zaphod42 · 51-55, M

A high pitch squeal is probably the warning pegs letting you know to schedule service soon. A grinding sound means you missed the squeal and you’re now rubbing bare pads on the rotors.

Brake service for just the pads around here is roughly $100 to $150 per axle, and anything more, like resurfacing or replacing the rotors or repairing any line or caliper leaks, will bring that up sharply.

LordShadowfire · 46-50, M

@Zaphod42 Thank you. I was driving myself crazy trying to remember how much it costs.

@Coralmist The good news is, if you get them replaced right now while they're just squealing, you probably won't have to have anything done with the calipers.