What is a common sign that the air brake system has an air leak?

A common sign that the air brake system has an air leak is when the brakes feel soft or spongy. This sensation typically occurs because air leaks result in a loss of pressure within the brake system. Air brake systems operate by utilizing compressed air to engage the brakes; when there is an air leak, the necessary pressure may not build up or be maintained effectively, leading to a less responsive brake feel. Drivers may notice that pressing the brake pedal does not yield the firm, immediate response expected, resulting in a feeling of sponginess as the air pressure drops.

In contrast, a vibrating brake pedal can indicate other issues such as warped brake components or problems with the brake adjustment, rather than a direct sign of an air leak. Increased stopping distance can be a result of various brake system malfunctions but is not exclusive to air leaks; it can also happen due to worn-out brake pads or faults in hydraulic systems. Lastly, brake lights that remain illuminated continuously could suggest a problem with the brake light switch or a different electrical issue, rather than an air leak in the braking system itself.