Most drivers know the brakes are one of the most important safety systems on a vehicle—but how often do you really think about them unless they start making noise or feel off? A professional brake inspection doesn’t just catch problems when they happen—it helps prevent them before they start.
Whether you’ve noticed a squeal when slowing down, a slight pull when braking, or you’re simply due for routine maintenance, here’s what actually goes into a proper brake inspection—and why it matters for your safety and your wallet.
Initial Test Drive and Symptom Review
At the start of a professional brake inspection, your technician will often begin with a test drive to get a feel for how the brakes perform in real-world conditions. If you’ve mentioned specific symptoms—like squeaking, grinding, pulsing, or reduced responsiveness—this drive helps replicate and diagnose the concern.
This step gives insight into how the brakes behave under different conditions, like at low and high speeds or during sudden stops.
Visual Brake Pad and Rotor Inspection
Once the vehicle is in the shop, the wheels are removed so the brakes can be inspected directly. One of the first things checked is brake pad thickness. Brake pads wear down gradually, and when they get too thin, they lose effectiveness and can begin damaging the rotors.
Our technicians will also examine the condition of the rotors—the metal discs the pads clamp down on. Rotors should be smooth and even. If they’re deeply grooved, warped, or have heat spots (caused by overheating), they may need resurfacing or replacement.
Checking Brake Calipers and Hardware
The calipers are responsible for applying pressure to the brake pads, and any issues here can lead to uneven wear or poor stopping power. The technician will check for stuck caliper pistons, seized slide pins, or signs of leaking brake fluid around the caliper.
Brake hardware—like clips, shims, and retaining pins—is also inspected. These pieces may seem minor, but they ensure the pads stay aligned and function quietly. If they’re worn or missing, they can contribute to noise or uneven wear.
Brake Fluid Level and Condition
Brake fluid is hydraulic, meaning it transmits force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes at each wheel. But it’s also hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture over time. Moisture in brake fluid can lead to a soft or spongy pedal feel and reduce braking efficiency.
During an inspection, the technician will check the brake fluid level and its condition. If the fluid looks dark or contaminated, a brake fluid flush may be recommended to restore proper performance.
Parking Brake Check
Whether your vehicle has a mechanical handbrake or an electronic parking brake system, it’s important that it works properly. We will verify that the parking brake engages, holds the vehicle on a slope, and releases without sticking. If there’s excessive tension, looseness, or wear in the cable system (for mechanical systems), adjustments or repairs may be necessary.
Brake Lines and Hoses
The inspection also includes a review of the brake lines and rubber hoses that connect to each wheel. Cracks, leaks, or corrosion here can lead to pressure loss in the system—something you definitely don’t want when you need to stop quickly. Even a small leak can affect brake performance and should be addressed right away.
Digital Measurements and Reporting
At many shops—including ours—brake inspections include precise digital measurements of pad thickness, rotor wear, and fluid condition. These details are shared with the driver, so you’re not just told something’s wrong—you can see the actual measurements and wear levels.
This transparency helps take the guesswork out of repair decisions and gives you a clearer understanding of your brake system’s condition.
Inmon Automotive – Brake Inspections and Service in Merritt Island, FL
At Inmon Automotive in Merritt Island, FL, we take brake safety seriously. Whether you're hearing a noise, feeling vibration, or just want peace of mind before a long drive, our team offers thorough brake inspections backed by clear, honest feedback. Schedule your inspection today and drive confidently knowing your stopping power is exactly where it should be.