Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle, and regular inspections help ensure they’re functioning properly when you need them most. Whether you’re hearing a strange noise, noticing reduced stopping power, or just due for routine service, a brake inspection is a smart and necessary part of car maintenance.
Here’s what’s involved in a typical brake inspection and what you can expect during the process.
1. Visual Inspection of Brake Components
The technician will start by inspecting visible brake components, including:
- Brake pads: These are checked for thickness and wear. If the pads are too thin, they’ll need to be replaced to maintain proper stopping power and protect the rotors.
- Rotors: The technician will look for grooves, warping, or heat spots. Damaged rotors can cause vibration, noise, and reduced braking efficiency.
- Calipers: These clamp the pads onto the rotors. They’ll be inspected for sticking or leaking, which can cause uneven braking.
- Brake lines and hoses: These are checked for cracks, leaks, or wear that could affect hydraulic pressure.
- Wheel cylinders (in drum brake systems): In vehicles with drum brakes, the technician will also inspect the wheel cylinders for leaks or damage.
2. Brake Fluid Check
Brake fluid is vital for transmitting force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes themselves. During the inspection, the fluid level and condition will be checked. Dark or dirty fluid may indicate moisture contamination or deterioration, which can reduce braking performance and lead to internal damage. If necessary, a brake fluid flush will be recommended.
3. Brake System Operation Test
The technician may take the vehicle for a short test drive to assess the brakes in real-world conditions. During this drive, they’ll check for:
- Unusual noises like squealing or grinding
- Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal
- Pulling to one side while braking
- Soft or spongy pedal feel
These signs can help diagnose problems that aren’t immediately visible during a visual inspection.
4. Brake Light and Parking Brake Check
All lights related to the braking system, including the brake warning light and third brake light, are tested to ensure they’re functioning correctly. The parking brake is also checked for proper engagement and release.
Final Thoughts
A brake inspection is a quick and effective way to stay ahead of safety issues and prevent more serious (and expensive) brake problems down the road. Most experts recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year, or more often if you notice any changes in braking performance. If it’s been a while since your last check, schedule a brake inspection with a trusted technician to make sure your vehicle stops safely every time you need it to.