NORTH AMERICA — CVSA Brake Safety Week is running now through August 29 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with certified inspectors conducting comprehensive brake system inspections on commercial vehicles and removing any truck found with critical brake violations from the road until repairs are made.
This year’s focus is on drums and rotors. Brake drum and rotor defects can reduce braking efficiency and cause broken pieces to fly off at highway speed, potentially damaging other vehicles or killing other drivers. Inspectors will be looking specifically for cracks, excessive wear, and structural damage to drums and rotors in addition to the full range of brake system checks.
What Inspectors Are Checking
Missing, non-functioning, loose, contaminated, or cracked parts. Non-manufactured holes from rust or friction and broken springs in the spring brake housing. Audible air leaks around brake components and lines. Over-stroking service brakes. Worn brake linings, pads, or shoes. Broken or cracked drums or rotors. Inoperative tractor protection systems.
By the Numbers From Last Year
During Brake Safety Week 2025, inspectors conducted 15,175 commercial vehicle inspections and placed 2,296 vehicles out of service for brake-related violations — a 15.1% out-of-service rate.
FMCSA reminded drivers to check brake hoses and tubing for chafing, kinks, cracks, and leaks; pushrod travel and slack adjusters for excessive travel; brake linings, pads, and shoes for wear; drums and rotors for cracks and structural damage; and the air system for leaks before rolling.
“Find it before the inspector does. Fix it before you get on the road,” FMCSA said.
Results from this year’s Brake Safety Week will be compiled and released later in 2026.
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