New Jersey Air Brakes Practice Test

What indicates that your brakes are fading?

1. You hear a grinding noise when braking

2. You have to push harder on the brake pedal to control your speed on a downgrade

3. Your vehicle shakes when you brake

4. The brake lights do not come on

The correct answer is: You have to push harder on the brake pedal to control your speed on a downgrade

When brakes are fading, it typically means that they are becoming less effective at providing the necessary stopping power. The correct answer highlights a situation where increased effort is required to maintain control, particularly when descending a hill. This need to push harder on the brake pedal to control speed indicates that the braking system is losing its effectiveness. Brake fading can occur due to excessive heat build-up from prolonged or hard braking, causing the brake pads to lose friction. In contrast, the other choices refer to different issues. For example, a grinding noise when braking can indicate worn brake pads or other mechanical issues, not necessarily fading brakes. Similarly, a vehicle shaking while braking often points to problems with wheel alignment or unbalanced wheels rather than fade. Finally, if the brake lights do not illuminate, it suggests an issue with the electrical system or brake light bulbs but does not indicate anything about the effectiveness of the brake system itself. Therefore, the necessity to exert more pressure on the brake pedal is the key sign of brake fading.