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What does it mean to you when you are told a brake inspection is being performed? A brake inspection should be at least 2 different inspections unless everything is looked at. What I mean by everything is looking past the obvious. The typical inspections include Brake pad thickness, rotor condition, and brake fluid conditions. That is only a small part of the braking system. Brake calipers, wheel cylinders (if equipped), brake lines, brake booster, brake modulator, and the electronic brake control module are all components of the brake system that are very rarely looked at unless there is a problem. Communicating expectations for what is being inspected, for a brake inspection, should be essential.
An automotive brake inspection is a thorough evaluation of your vehicle’s braking system to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently. During the inspection, a technician typically checks several key components:
- Brake Pads – Examines the thickness and condition of the brake pads to determine if they need to be replaced.
- Brake Rotors – Inspects the rotors for wear, warping, or scoring, which can affect braking performance.
- Brake Calipers – Reviews the calipers to ensure they are properly functioning and applying the necessary pressure to the pads.
- Brake Lines and Hoses – Checks for any leaks, cracks, or damage in the brake lines and hoses, which could result in loss of braking power.
- Brake Fluid – Tests the brake fluid level and condition, as degraded fluid can impact brake response and performance.
- Brake Pedal Response – Ensures the brake pedal engages properly and does not feel too soft or stiff, which could indicate underlying issues.
Regular brake inspections are crucial for identifying potential problems early and ensuring that your vehicle can stop safely, reducing the risk of accidents.
Measuring brake pad thickness can be very telling if measured correctly. Brake pads should be measured from the backing plate to the top of the friction material. Both inner and outer pads must be measured. Any differences in thickness can tell if a caliper is working correctly. Comparing side-to-side measurements can tell if both calipers are working equally, as well as equal hydraulic pressure is being distributed.
Front brake pads will always wear quicker than rear pads or shoes. The front brakes usually have the majority of the braking power. Brake fluid does get contaminated. Condensation in the brake lines from temperature fluctuations and everyday use causes the contamination. Most manufacturers recommend replacing brake fluid every 3 to 5 years.
Visual inspection of the rest of the braking components is crucial for a safe driving experience. The hose between the steel brake line and the caliper or wheel cylinder is rubber. They can and will dry out and crack. The hose is also exposed to the elements and debris being kicked up underneath the vehicle.
The brake booster is either vacuum or hydraulic. The majority of vehicles on the road today have a vacuum brake booster. The vacuum line between the engine and booster is rubber and needs to be checked regularly. The vacuum booster also needs inspecting for any moisture, this showed damage to the diaphragm inside the booster. Inspections on the hydraulic brake booster include where the lines connect to the booster, the lines themselves, and any seepage or leaks in the booster area.
Since there is a great deal of pressure running through the brake modulator, regular inspection for seepage or leaks should be done. The electronic brake control module doesn’t usually need a visual inspection as indicators on the dash will show problems. However, if a technician is checking for codes, any history-stored codes should be noted and researched.
A full brake inspection involves a comprehensive assessment of all key components within your vehicle’s braking system to ensure optimal performance and safety. During the inspection, technicians evaluate the brake pads for wear, check the condition of the rotors for any signs of damage or warping, and ensure that the calipers are functioning correctly. They also examine the brake lines and hoses for leaks or deterioration and test the brake fluid level and quality. Additionally, the brake pedal’s responsiveness is checked to ensure proper engagement. Regular full brake inspections help detect potential issues early, ensuring your vehicle can stop safely and preventing costly repairs down the road.
