Arizona Air Brakes CDL Practice Test

How can you identify that your brakes are fading?

1. A. Pressure on the brake pedal is released and speed increases.

2. B. You have to push harder on the brake pedal to control your speed on a downgrade.

3. C. The brake feels spongy when pressure is applied.

4. D. Less pressure is needed on the brake pedal for each stop.

The correct answer is: B. You have to push harder on the brake pedal to control your speed on a downgrade.

The identification of fading brakes is crucial for maintaining control of your vehicle, especially in large commercial vehicles. A key indicator of brake fading is the experience of needing to push harder on the brake pedal to control your speed, particularly when going downhill. This phenomenon occurs due to overheating or wear of the brake components, diminishing their effectiveness. When brakes fade, they lose their ability to generate adequate stopping power, requiring the driver to apply more force to achieve the same level of deceleration. In contrast, if you notice that pressure on the brake pedal is released and your speed increases, it could indicate a different issue, such as a malfunctioning brake system. Feeling a spongy brake pedal points towards potential air in the brake lines or a leak, which also signifies a problem but is not specifically indicative of brake fading. Lastly, needing less pressure on the brake pedal for each stop suggests that brakes are functioning well, offering optimal response without fading. Understanding these nuances is vital for safe driving and can help you react appropriately when faced with brake performance changes.