How to Check Cars Brakes?

For every vehicle roaming the streets, the most critical thing is being able to bring them to a stop as and when needed. Thanks to the braking system, this can be done within seconds. On the other hand, a fault in this same system can cause numerous and horrifying crashes and accidents. This is why the primary purpose with which the MOT testing course was created was to learn how to check brakes effectively, thereby determining a vehicle's roadworthiness. This article is dedicated to the standard procedures for testing the parts of a vehicle's brake.

1. Listen for strange sounds.

The first and foremost way to test brakes is to listen for warning and cranking sounds coming from the brakes. Imagine hitting the paddles and hearing a high-pitched squeal coming from them. This sound often starts low and increases over time, so much that it can be heard with windows rolled down after a point. As time passes, the sound takes a harsher grinding tone. This is a warning signal which means that the calliper metals are grinding against the rotors resulting in too much friction and therefore need immediate replacing to avoid further damage.

2. Check the brake pads.

The following way to test car brakes is to look into the brake pads, and MOT experts follow this procedure. Nowadays, most vehicles use the hydraulic system to stop. The brake fluid causes the callipers to squeeze together on the rotors. The friction caused by the to and fro of brake pads and rotors eventually stops the car. Now, you have to peek between your wheels and spot the metal rotors. This will help you see the brake pads stuck between the callipers and rotors. According to the MOT testing course, the pad should be approximately a quarter of an inch in thickness. Anything less than that means a lack of proper grip causing the brakes to fail.

3. Feel the vibrations

There are often emergencies where the car needs to be brought to a standstill immediately. During such circumstances, the brake paddle constantly emits an unusual vibration because of the quick pressure on the rotors. However, if you find that the vehicle is casting the same vibrations under normal circumstances or every time you bring it to a stop, it means there is an underlying issue. What an MOT tester will do here is check the rotor disc for signs of warps and grooves. This can also be done at home. Just run your fingernails over the rotor to feel any unevenness or deep grooves. This kind of issue with the brakes occurs mainly when the vehicle has undergone continuous driving down steep mountainsides.

4. Note the mushy paddles.

In the best-case scenario, a little nudge on the brake paddle should bring your car to a standstill. However, if you find that the paddle ultimately reaches the floor before engaging the brakes and coming to a stop, then there is something wrong with the hydraulic system. Two probable causes are a brake fluid leak or an air leak. Just place an old white sheet or white cardboard board underneath the car overnight to check for a fluid leak. Study the fluid collected on the cloth or board in the morning. If there is a brake fluid leak, then the contents should be clear and oily in consistency. If there are none, then the obvious alternative is an air leak, for which you will need the help of an MOT expert.

Conclusion

It is no secret that faulty brakes can lead to life or death, so always keep an eye out for the above-mentioned brake-related issues. If you spot any of them, follow the exact procedures to check the car brakes and do not forget to contact an authorized MOT tester.