Brake Safety Week is happening August 24–30, 2025, and CVSA-certified inspectors across North America will be checking commercial trucks and buses for brake system violations. This year’s focus is on drums and rotors, so if your brakes aren’t in top shape, you could be taken off the road.
Here’s how to prepare, pass inspection, and avoid costly downtime.
What Is Brake Safety Week?
Brake Safety Week is part of the Operation Airbrake Program, a North America-wide initiative led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). The goal is simple: find unsafe brakes before they cause crashes.
CVSA-certified inspectors will perform Level IV inspections focused entirely on brake systems. If they find any brake-related, out-of-service violations, your truck will be removed from the road until the problems are fixed.
What’s the Focus in 2025?
This year’s spotlight is on brake drums and rotors. These are key components that play a direct role in stopping power and safety. Inspectors will be checking for:
- Cracks or damage in drums or rotors
- Excessive wear
- Missing pieces
- Signs of overheating
Why this matters: Worn or broken drums and rotors don’t just affect braking efficiency. Pieces can dislodge while you’re driving, damaging other vehicles, or causing serious accidents.
Why Brake Safety Week Matters
Brakes are the #1 reason commercial vehicles are placed out of service. Poor maintenance, improper installation, or just neglect can cause:
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- Longer stopping distances
- Air leaks or loss of pressure
- Reduced brake response
- Failed inspections
- Expensive downtime
Even well-built systems wear out. They need regular checks to stay safe and compliant.
Fill Out the Form Below to Download the Brake Safety Checklist
5 Ways to Pass Your Inspection
1. Inspect Your Brakes Now
Don’t wait until the last minute. Do a full inspection now and before every trip. Check:
- Air pressure levels
- Brake lining thickness
- Condition of rotors and drums
- Air leaks
- ABS light function
- Loose hoses or fittings
2. Know What Inspectors Are Looking For
Inspectors will be focused on finding any:
- Worn or cracked drums and rotors
- Leaks in the air or hydraulic system
- Faulty or misaligned components
- Brake adjustment issues
- ABS system problems
3. Make Repairs Before the Roadside Stops
If you find anything out of spec, fix it now. Don’t risk getting pulled over and taken out of service.
4. Train Your Drivers
Your drivers should know what to expect. Share inspection tips and quick checks they can do on their own. Keep it simple and useful. A few minutes of prep can avoid hours of downtime.
5. Keep Your Paperwork in Order
Make it easy on the inspector. Keep these documents clean and accessible in the cab:
- CDL and medical card
- Truck registration and insurance
- Recent inspection reports
- Maintenance logs
Brake Safety Week is the perfect time to get your truck road-ready, and TCS can help. With the TCS Fuel Card, you get access to exclusive discounts on tires, oil changes, and brake service at TA Truck Service® Centers. Don’t wait for an inspection to catch a problem.
Stay ahead on maintenance, save money, and keep your trucks rolling safely all year long with the TCS Fuel Card. Apply for the TCS Fuel Card today! Got questions? Call 844-827-7705.
