Brake systems are one of the most important safety features on any commercial vehicle. Yet brake-related problems continue to be a leading reason trucks are placed out of service during roadside inspections. With Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) Brake Safety Week approaching, now is the time for fleets, owner-operators, and maintenance teams to make sure their vehicles are ready.
The results from 2025 show why regular brake maintenance is so important. According to the CVSA, of the 15,175 inspections, 2,296 vehicles were placed out of service for brake-related violations, creating an out-of-service rate of 15.1%.
The most common violation involved vehicles with 20% or more defective service brakes. Inspectors also found problems with brake hoses, air lines, steering axles, air loss rates, and damaged brake drums and rotors.
The good news is that many of these issues can be prevented through routine inspections and timely repairs.
CVSA Brake Safety Week 2026 will take place August 23-29, 2026. During this week, certified inspectors will conduct roadside inspections with a special focus on brake systems. Vehicles with serious brake violations may be placed out of service until repairs are completed.
For the second year in a row, inspectors will pay special attention to brake drums and rotors. These components are critical to a vehicle’s ability to stop safely.
Inspectors will look for:
Damaged drums and rotors not only affect stopping ability but can also become dangerous if pieces break loose while a vehicle is in operation.
Drivers play an important role through pre-trip and post-trip inspections, but successful Brake Safety Week preparation starts in the shop.
Brake components wear down over time due to heavy loads, frequent stops, weather conditions, and normal vehicle use. Small problems can quickly turn into costly repairs, unexpected downtime, or roadside violations if they are not addressed early on.
A strong preventive maintenance program can help:
While brake drums and rotors are receiving special attention in 2026, fleets should inspect the entire brake system including the following components:
CVSA emphasizes that brake safety should not be treated as a once-a-year event. Regular inspections, documented maintenance, and prompt repairs are the best ways to prevent violations and breakdowns.
The fleets that perform best during Brake Safety Week are usually those that have made brake inspections part of their routine maintenance programs.
Brake Safety Week should be a reminder, not a deadline. By inspecting brake systems early and correcting problems before the August 23-29 enforcement period, fleets can reduce the risk of violations, improve vehicle reliability, and help keep drivers and the public safe.
If your vehicles are due for maintenance, now is the perfect time to schedule a thorough brake inspection and ensure your fleet is prepared for Brake Safety Week 2026. Contact your local Kenworth of Pennsylvania service department to schedule an appointment today!