Automobile & Light Truck Certification Test A5 BrakesDisc Brake Diagnosis and RepairEasy
A vehicle owner complains of a loud grinding noise and vibration during braking, especially at higher speeds. The technician inspects the front brakes and finds that the brake pads are worn down to the backing plates and have severely scored the rotors. What is the MOST immediate action the technician should take?
- ASuggest a brake fluid flush and system inspection.
- BAdvise the customer to drive cautiously until new parts arrive.
- CInform the customer that the vehicle is unsafe to drive and requires immediate repair.
- DRecommend balancing the tires to reduce vibration.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Inform the customer that the vehicle is unsafe to drive and requires immediate repair.
Brake pads worn to the backing plates and scored rotors constitute a severe safety hazard. The vehicle has significantly compromised braking ability and could fail to stop effectively, making it unsafe to drive. Immediate repair is essential.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A brake fluid flush is routine maintenance and unrelated to physical wear of pads and rotors.
- B. Driving a vehicle with severely compromised brakes is extremely dangerous and could lead to an accident.
- D. Tire balancing addresses vibration, but not the critical safety issue of worn brake pads and rotors.
Critical Brake Failure
A condition where brake components are so severely worn or damaged that the vehicle's ability to stop is dangerously compromised.
- Pads worn to backing plates.
- Severely scored or broken rotors.
- Leaking brake lines or calipers.
- Lack of pedal pressure.
Memory trick: Safety first, brakes are a must!