Brake Repair in Rochester & Winona, MN 
Soft pedal? Squeal or grinding? Longer stopping distance? Our certified technicians diagnose brake issues the right way—measuring, testing, and confirming—so you get the safest fix, not guesswork. With a strong warranty, free local shuttle, and a comfortable lounge, getting brakes done at Joe’s is simple and safe. Book online or call Rochester (507) 722-2144 or Winona (507) 703-6047.
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Why your brakes matter
Brakes are your shortest path to safety. Properly serviced brakes protect you, your passengers, and everyone around you—especially in Minnesota winters. Quality pads, true rotors, and clean fluid keep stopping distances short, ABS stable, and tires wearing evenly. Many warranties and maintenance schedules also require proper service intervals—ask us for details.
Signs you may need brake service
- Squeaking, squealing, or grinding
- Vibration/pulsation when braking (often rotor run out/variation)
- Soft, spongy, or sinking pedal
- Pulling to one side under braking
- ABS/Brake warning lights
- Burning smell after a drive, or hot wheel
- Brake fluid low or looks dark/contaminated
Our brake service process (clear, consistent, by-the-book)
- Road test + digital inspection to duplicate symptoms and gather baseline data.
- Measure pad/shoe thickness (mm) and rotor/drum condition (thickness, taper, and run out with a dial indicator).
- Hydraulic checks: leaks at hoses/lines, caliper slide freedom, master cylinder basics.
- Brake fluid test: copper/contamination strip and boiling-point check to determine if a flush is warranted.
- Estimate with options: we’ll separate “safety-critical now” from “can wait,” with parts quality choices.
- Precision install: clean and lube slides, replace hardware as needed, torque bolts to spec, and perform ABS-safe fluid procedures.
- Bedding + verification: controlled stops to mate pads/rotors, final road test, and quality check.
- Digital report with photos/measurements for your records.
Evidence Moments We Include
| Rotor run out checked and kept within spec (typically ≤0.002–0.004 in., per vehicle) using a dial indicator. | Pad thickness documented in mm before/after. | Brake fluid condition tested; we’ll note contamination/boiling point and recommend service based on data. |
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What makes Joe’s different
- Certified technicians working to manufacturer and ASE standards. (We emphasize “certified techs,” not just acronyms.)
- AAA Approved facility and strong warranty support.
- Nationwide 3-year/36,000-mile warranty coverage on qualifying work—drive with confidence.
- Comfort & convenience: free local shuttle; comfortable waiting area with coffee, water, and Wi-Fi.
- Awards: Voted Post Bulletin’s Best Auto Repair Shop (2024 & 2025) and KTTC’s 2025 Fan Favorite.
- Financing options (CFNA): helpful for larger repairs; cardholder perks available—see Financing.
Timing & what to expect
Most pad/rotor services are completed the same business day once approved and parts are on hand. Expect 1.5–3.0 hours per axle for typical pad+rotor work, with time added for seized hardware, ABS diagnostics, or fluid service. Waiting? Enjoy the lounge. Need a lift? Ask about the free local shuttle.
Pricing guidance
Costs vary by vehicle, parts grade, rotor condition, and whether fluid/hardware are needed. We’ll show you measurements and photos so you can choose confidently. If helpful, consider financing via CFNA (perks and terms listed on our Financing page).
Vehicles we service
Domestic, Asian, and European passenger vehicles and light trucks, including hybrids and many EV brake systems.
Schedule Your Brake Service
- Book Online (Appointments)
- Call Rochester: (507) 722-2144
- Call Winona: (507) 703-6047
Trust & transparency
- AAA Approved Auto Repair (Rochester & Winona).
- Warranty: strong coverage on qualifying work (commonly 3 yr/36k mi nationwide). Ask for details.
- Awards: Post Bulletin Best of the Best (2024 & 2025), KTTC Fan Favorite 2025.
FAQ
How often should brakes be inspected?
At least annually or 12,000 miles—and any time you notice symptoms.
Can I drive if my brakes are squealing?
Squeal can be harmless or a warning. If noise is persistent or you feel vibration/soft pedal, schedule an inspection promptly.
Do I always need rotors with pads?
Not always. We measure thickness, surface condition, and runout. If out of spec or heat-checked, rotors are replaced.
What about brake fluid?
We test contamination and boiling point. If fluid is degraded or moisture-laden, a flush restores pedal feel and protection.
How long does a brake job take?
Typical pad/rotor service is ~1.5–3.0 hours per axle once approved, parts on hand.
Are parts OEM or aftermarket?
We offer quality options that meet or exceed spec. We’ll outline choices and warranties before work.
Does my warranty transfer if I sell the vehicle?
Coverage terms vary—ask us to review your invoice and details.
Can you do same-day service?
Often, depending on schedule/parts. Book online or call for today’s availability.
Areas We Serve
Rochester area: Rochester, Byron, Stewartville, Kasson, Mantorville, Oronoco, Pine Island, Dover, Eyota, Chatfield, St. Charles, Elgin, Plainview
Winona area: Winona, Goodview, Minnesota City, Stockton, Homer, Lewiston, Altura, Rollingstone, Dakota (MN), Fountain City (WI), Trempealeau (WI)