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(888) 312-8812 Login SignupHow You Can Be Prepared For Brake Safety Week: A Simple Guide
David Seewack
November 06, 2025
Brake Safety Week may have wrapped up for this year, but the lessons it brings remain more relevant than ever. This annual campaign, led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), continues to spotlight the importance of brake maintenance and inspection across North America. As 2025 unfolds, many fleets are applying what they learned during the inspection period to establish year-round safety practices.
When is Brake Safety Week?
In 2025, Brake Safety Week took place from August 24 to 30, with inspectors across the U.S. focusing on brake system components to ensure compliance with federal safety standards. Even though the week-long inspection blitz has concluded, its goal—to keep commercial vehicles operating safely—remains ongoing.
Events like this reinforce what seasoned drivers already know: your brakes are your truck’s most critical safety system. Knowing the importance of regular brake inspections can't be overstated when it comes to keeping your rig road-ready year-round.
What do Inspectors Check for During Brake Safety Week?
Inspectors check for missing or malfunctioning parts, air system pressure, structural integrity, lighting, cargo securement, steering, suspension, and tire condition. While Brake Safety Week emphasizes braking systems, the CVSA reminds truckers that these checks should be a routine part of every pre- and post-trip inspection.
The 2025 campaign continued its focus on brake lining and pad condition, as these remain leading causes of out-of-service violations. According to early reports, chafed brake hoses and worn linings were once again among the top issues discovered during roadside inspections. Preventing these problems requires consistent attention and proper maintenance habits—a key principle emphasized for Brake Safety Week.
Ten Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Inspection-Ready
To keep your truck in top condition not only for Brake Safety Week but year-round, follow these practical maintenance steps:
1. Regular Check-ups: Always include brake linings and pads in your pre-and post-trip inspections.
2. Spot the Signs: Keep an eye out for signs of missing lining, like drum grooves from rivet contact.
3. Measurement Matters: Ensure adequate shoe-to-drum clearance and sufficient lining on the shoe.
4. Look for Leaks: Spot any leaks from the hub or other components that could contaminate the lining or pad.
5. No Missing Pieces: All lining blocks should be present and accounted for.
6. Crack Control: Identify any visible cracks or voids in the lining block.
7. Secure the Shoes: Confirm that there are no exposed rivets or loose lining blocks on the shoe.
8. Rotor Reminder: If you have disc brakes, inspect the rotor condition, especially for heavy rust or metal-to-metal contact.
9. Repair Responsibly: Ensure all repairs align with the brake manufacturer’s specifications.
10. Identify Damage: Any issues found should be noted in your driver vehicle inspection reports and reported for repair.
Fleet managers who want to go beyond basic inspections can benefit from understanding why brake system maintenance prevents major road accidents—a reminder that early intervention not only reduces downtime but also saves lives.
Troubleshooting Common Brake Problems
Even with regular inspections, unexpected issues can arise. Recognizing early warning signs—like uneven wear, vibration during braking, or a drop in responsiveness—can help prevent costly repairs or violations. Many drivers now rely on technology and updated service checklists to stay ahead of problems, including knowledge of common brake issues in heavy-duty trucks that often lead to failures on the road.
Safety First, Always
Brake Safety Week isn’t just an annual event—it’s a reminder of the industry’s commitment to safety and accountability. While inspectors focus on compliance during the official week, the real goal is to instill habits that protect lives year-round.
Regular inspections and preventive maintenance aren’t just best practices—they’re essential for keeping your truck roadworthy. Developing a clear understanding of how each braking component works, along with consistent upkeep, can make a major difference in long-term performance. Many drivers reinforce their maintenance routines by following semi-truck brake system maintenance tips that focus on both safety and efficiency.
Get The Parts You Need
At FinditParts, we're committed to making Brake Safety Week stress-free for you. You can use our platform to effortlessly search for and order any parts you need for your brake systems. We're here to support your preparation and help ensure you ride through inspections smoothly and confidently.
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