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Time to Check Your Brakes! Get Ready for Truck Brake Safety Week 2024

Aug. 7 2024 Miscellaneous By Westrux International

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Are Your Truck Brakes in Need of Service? Everything You Need to Know About Truck Brake Safety Week 2024


As Truck Brake Safety Week approaches, it's essential for truck owners and operators to prioritize brake maintenance and safety. This annual event, taking place from August 25-31, 2024, focuses on reducing brake-related violations and ensuring that commercial vehicles are operating safely on the road. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for this crucial week.

The Importance of Truck Brake Safety Week

Truck Brake Safety Week is organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and aims to raise awareness about the importance of brake maintenance. During this week, law enforcement officers across North America will conduct roadside inspections, focusing on brake systems and components. The goal is to identify and remove unsafe vehicles from the roads, ultimately reducing brake-related accidents.

Brake Violations in 2023: A Wake-Up Call

In 2023, brake violations remained a significant concern within the trucking industry. According to the CVSA, brake-related issues accounted for nearly 38% of all out-of-service violations during the International Roadcheck inspection blitz. These violations included:

  • Worn Brake Linings or Pads: Linings or pads that are too thin or worn out.
  • Brake Adjustment Issues: Brakes that are not properly adjusted, leading to inadequate stopping power.
  • Brake Hose/Tubing Problems: Damaged or leaking brake hoses and tubing.
  • Defective Brake Components: Cracked, broken, or missing brake components.

These statistics highlight the critical need for regular brake inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of drivers and other road users.

Brake Inspection Checklist

Preparing for Truck Brake Safety Week involves conducting thorough brake inspections on your fleet. Here’s a comprehensive brake inspection checklist to help you get started:

  • Visual Inspection: 
    • Check for visible cracks, corrosion, or damage to brake components.
    • Inspect brake hoses and tubing for wear, leaks, or cracks.
  • Brake Linings and Pads:
    • Measure the thickness of brake linings and pads. Replace them if they are below the manufacturer's recommended minimum thickness.
    • Look for uneven wear patterns that could indicate alignment or adjustment issues.
  • Brake Drums and Rotors:
    • Inspect for scoring, cracks, or grooves. Replace if they exceed allowable limits.
    • Ensure they are within the manufacturer's specifications for thickness and roundness.
  • Brake Adjustment:
    • Check the brake adjustment and ensure they are within the manufacturer's specifications.
    • Verify that automatic brake adjusters (if equipped) are functioning correctly.
  • Air Brake System:
    • Test the air brake system for leaks. Listen for hissing sounds that indicate air leaks.
    • Check the air compressor, air reservoirs, and air lines for proper operation and condition.
  • Brake Performance Testing:
    • Conduct a brake performance test to ensure that the brakes are providing adequate stopping power.
    • Test emergency braking systems to confirm they are working correctly.

How to Check Your Brake Linings and Pads

Checking your brake linings and pads is a crucial part of brake maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Locate the Brake Components:
    • Access the brake drums or disc brakes by removing the wheels if necessary.
  • Measure the Thickness:
    • Use a brake lining gauge or caliper to measure the thickness of the brake linings and pads.
    • Compare the measurements to the manufacturer's recommended minimum thickness. Replace any linings or pads that are below the specified limit.
  • Inspect for Wear Patterns:
    • Look for signs of uneven wear, glazing, or contamination. Uneven wear can indicate misalignment or issues with brake adjustment.
    • Glazed or contaminated linings and pads should be replaced to ensure proper braking performance.
  • Check for Damage:
    • Inspect the brake linings and pads for cracks, chips, or other damage. Replace any components that show signs of damage.

Truck Brake Safety Week is an excellent opportunity to ensure your fleet's brakes are in top condition. By conducting thorough inspections and addressing any issues promptly, you can enhance safety, reduce the risk of violations, and contribute to safer roads for everyone. 

Don't wait until it's too late—start your brake inspections today and ensure your trucks are ready for the road ahead. For more information and resources, visit the CVSA website and stay informed about the latest brake safety guidelines.

Ignoring brake issues can lead to breakdowns and accidents, resulting in harm, downtime, revenue loss, and potential violations. Remember, your vehicle can be selected for an inspection anytime and anywhere, not just during Brake Safety Week.

To ensure your brakes operate at peak performance and efficiency, prioritize preventive maintenance and regularly inspect and service the brake system and its components.

Westrux offers comprehensive same-day brake system inspections and service at four convenient locations throughout Southern California. Our factory-trained technicians will inspect and service brake pads, rotors, brake shoes, and drums, providing per-axle prices for parts and labor. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.

Stay safe and keep your brakes in check!