Brake Inspection Checklist
Ensure your vehicle's stopping power with this comprehensive brake inspection checklist covering pads, rotors, fluid, and hydraulic lines for maximum safety.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A brake inspection is one of the most critical maintenance tasks for any vehicle. This process involves a visual and physical assessment of the components that convert kinetic energy into heat to stop your car. A standard inspection typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for a DIYer, while a professional shop may perform a multi-point check in under 30 minutes using a lift.
Regularly checking your brakes helps prevent metal-on-metal contact, which can destroy expensive rotors and calipers. This checklist ensures you don't miss subtle signs of failure like cracked hoses or moisture-contaminated fluid.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 2 min | Level between Min and Max lines | Top off and check for leaks |
| Brake Fluid Color | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Clear or light amber; no debris | Flush and replace fluid |
| Brake Pad Thickness (Front) | Required | DIY | 10 min | At least 3mm or 1/8 inch remaining | Replace brake pads immediately |
| Brake Pad Thickness (Rear) | Required | DIY | 10 min | At least 3mm or 1/8 inch remaining | Replace brake pads immediately |
| Rotor Surface Condition | Required | Shop/DIY | 5 min | Smooth surface; no deep grooves | Resurface or replace rotors |
| Brake Line Cracking | Required | Shop/DIY | 5 min | No visible cracks or dry rot | Replace rubber brake hoses |
| Caliper Leakage | Required | Shop/DIY | 5 min | Dry around piston and bleeder screw | Rebuild or replace caliper |
| Brake Pedal Feel | Required | DIY | 1 min | Firm resistance; no 'spongy' feel | Bleed system; check master cylinder |
| Parking Brake Tension | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Holds car on incline; 5-8 clicks | Adjust parking brake cable |
| Dashboard Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 1 min | ABS or Brake light is OFF | Scan for OBD-II trouble codes |
| Master Cylinder Exterior | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | No fluid weeping at the booster seal | Replace master cylinder |
| Brake Dust Accumulation | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Even distribution across wheels | Check for sticking calipers |
| Rotor Rust/Corrosion | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | No heavy scaling on contact surface | Clean or replace if pitted |
| Brake Hardware (Clips) | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 5 min | Securely seated; no heavy rust | Replace hardware kit |
| Wheel Lug Nut Torque | Required | DIY | 5 min | Tightened to manufacturer spec | Torque to correct ft-lbs |
| Vacuum Booster Hose | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | No hissing sounds or soft spots | Replace vacuum line |
| ABS Sensor Wiring | Optional | Shop/DIY | 5 min | Wires intact; no fraying | Repair or replace sensor harness |
| Test Drive Noise | Required | DIY | 10 min | No squealing, grinding, or clicking | Inspect pads and shims |
Use this table as a guide during your quarterly maintenance or before long trips. Check off each item as you complete it to ensure no component is overlooked.
If you are unsure about the thickness of your pads or the condition of your rotors, many local auto parts stores provide free measurement tools or testing services. Always prioritize the front brakes as they handle the majority of the stopping force.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Keeping a log of your brake inspections helps predict when you will need a full brake job, allowing you to budget for parts in advance.
- Record the date and mileage of every inspection.
- Note the estimated percentage of pad life remaining.
- Always dispose of old brake fluid at a certified recycling center; never pour it down the drain.
- If you replaced pads, remember to 'bed' them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Check your tire tread depth while the wheels are off.
- Look for uneven pad wear, which suggests a mechanical alignment issue in the caliper.
- Clean the wheels thoroughly while they are removed to prevent corrosion.
- Ensure the spare tire is properly inflated while you have your tools out.
- Browse similar checklists like Tires & Wheels or Fluids.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.