The emphasis doesn’t change how roadside inspections are conducted. Inspectors will still evaluate the complete brake system using the North American Standard Inspection Program. This year’s campaign simply places additional focus on identifying drums and rotors that show excessive wear, cracking, or other conditions that could affect braking performance.

For drivers, it’s less about preparing for one week of inspections and more about understanding where enforcement attention will be concentrated.

Why CVSA Chose Brake Drums and Rotors

Brake drums and rotors operate under extreme conditions. Every stop generates heat, and over hundreds of thousands of miles, that constant expansion and contraction can create stress fractures, excessive wear, or other structural damage.

Unlike an air leak or an ABS warning light, these problems don’t always announce themselves while you’re driving. Many are discovered during scheduled maintenance or roadside inspections.

CVSA selected brake drums and rotors because defects in these components can reduce braking performance without producing obvious warning signs until the damage becomes more severe.

What Inspectors Will Be Looking For

Although the campaign highlights drums and rotors, inspectors will examine the entire brake system during a roadside inspection.

That includes checking for:

Finding one brake defect often leads to a more detailed inspection of the remaining brake components.

Brake Problems Continue to Rank Among the Top Out-of-Service Violations

Brake-related violations remain one of the most common reasons commercial vehicles are placed out of service during roadside inspections.

According to CVSA inspection data, defective service brakes, adjustment violations, damaged brake components, and air system defects consistently account for a significant share of out-of-service orders each year.

For fleets, those violations mean unexpected repair costs and delayed deliveries.

For drivers, they often mean waiting for repairs before the trip can continue.

What Drivers Can Actually Identify Before an Inspection

Not every brake defect is visible during a pre-trip inspection.

Drivers can often identify warning signs such as audible air leaks, illuminated ABS warning lights, damaged air hoses, or changes in braking performance. They may also notice visible cracks on brake drums where wheel design allows adequate visibility.

Internal rotor wear, certain drum defects, and other structural problems generally require inspection by qualified maintenance personnel.

Knowing that distinction matters. Drivers aren’t expected to diagnose every brake issue, but they are expected to report changes in vehicle performance before those issues become safety violations.

Why This Year’s Inspection Focus Matters

Brake Safety Week doesn’t introduce new regulations. It highlights an area where inspectors expect to find preventable defects.

For fleets already following preventive maintenance schedules, the annual campaign serves as another reminder to verify that brake inspections are current before vehicles head back onto the road.

For drivers, it’s an opportunity to discuss any unusual brake performance with maintenance before an inspector finds the problem first.

The Bottom Line

Brake Safety Week has become a predictable part of the industry’s inspection calendar, but each year’s inspection emphasis offers insight into where regulators are seeing recurring safety concerns.

With brake drums and rotors receiving additional attention in 2026, drivers should expect inspectors to spend more time evaluating those components alongside the rest of the braking system. Understanding that focus now may help avoid unnecessary delays once enforcement begins in late August.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: July 7, 2026

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That is one reason drivers may want to pay attention to the latest announcement from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance.

CVSA has scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for Aug. 23-29. During the seven-day initiative, certified inspectors throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico will conduct commercial vehicle inspections with a heightened focus on braking systems.

For many drivers, the announcement serves as a reminder that August will arrive faster than expected.

Brake Drums and Rotors Will Receive Extra Attention

Each year, CVSA places additional emphasis on a specific brake-related area during the inspection campaign. This year, inspectors will focus closely on brake drums and rotors.

According to CVSA, damaged drums and rotors can reduce braking performance and create hazards for everyone sharing the road. Cracked components, excessive wear, and other defects can affect stopping ability. In more serious cases, pieces may separate from the vehicle while it is traveling, creating risks for nearby motorists.

While inspectors will evaluate overall brake system condition, drivers can expect drums and rotors to receive additional scrutiny throughout the week.

A Small Problem Can Become a Large Violation

Many out-of-service violations do not begin as major mechanical failures. In many cases, maintenance issues develop gradually and become more serious when they are ignored.

Brake Safety Week often highlights problems that may have been identified earlier through inspections, maintenance reviews, or driver reports. What begins as a repair that can be scheduled during routine maintenance may eventually become a violation that sidelines equipment and disrupts freight schedules.

For drivers paid by the mile, unexpected downtime can quickly become more costly than the repair itself.

Inspection Data Helps Identify Industry Trends

In addition to roadside inspections, CVSA uses Brake Safety Week to collect information about brake-related violations across North America.

Inspectors participating in the initiative will submit inspection data to the organization after the event concludes. CVSA will then analyze the findings and release the results later this year.

The annual reports often provide a snapshot of where brake maintenance issues continue to surface and how frequently inspectors encounter serious violations during roadside inspections.

The Goal Is Not Just Enforcement

Although enforcement receives most of the attention, Brake Safety Week also includes an educational component.

CVSA says inspectors and transportation officials will use the initiative to engage with drivers, carriers, and maintenance personnel about the role proper brake maintenance plays in preventing crashes and improving roadway safety.

The organization continues to encourage drivers and carriers to conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and address maintenance concerns before they become larger problems.

What Drivers Can Do Before August

With several months remaining before Brake Safety Week begins, drivers still have time to identify issues that could attract attention during inspections.

That starts with taking brake concerns seriously when they appear. Unusual noises, vibrations, pulling during braking, or visible component damage are all issues worth reporting before they become violations.

The announcement may be months ahead of the actual enforcement period, but drivers who use the time to address maintenance concerns now are less likely to find themselves dealing with unexpected downtime once inspectors begin their focused inspections later this summer.

Author: TDUSA Editorial Team

Author bio: The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information drivers can use.

Last updated: June 3, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post CVSA Sets August Brake Safety Week Dates as Inspectors Prepare to Focus on Drums and Rotors appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

According to CVSA, 81.6% of vehicles and 94.1% of drivers made it through clean. “Conversely, inspectors discovered 13,553 vehicles, 3,317 drivers, and 177 hazardous materials/dangerous goods (HM/DG) out-of-service violations and placed 10,148 commercial motor vehicles and 3,342 drivers out of service,” CVSA said. “The vehicle out-of-service rate was 18.1% and the driver out-of-service rate was 5.9%.”

That means the overwhelming majority of truckers and fleets are running safe, compliant operations — a testament to the hard work drivers put in to keep their rigs road-ready.

Focus Areas: Tires and Log Accuracy

Each year, International Roadcheck spotlights specific safety areas. In 2025, inspectors zeroed in on tires and false records of duty status (RODS).

Inspectors found 2,899 tire-related violations, making tires the second most common vehicle issue behind brakes. Problems ranged from flat tires and low tread depth to improper repairs and overloading. Tire violations made up 21.4% of all vehicle OOS issues.

Tires are one of the simplest things to check and one of the easiest ways to get hit with a violation. Daily pre- and post-trip inspections remain key to staying compliant and safe on the road.

False Logs Still a Problem

When it comes to driver violations, false logs stood out. “Ten percent (332) of all driver out-of-service violations were for false logs/RODS,” CVSA said. “Falsifying logs is a serious violation. It conceals the real hours a driver has been driving or on duty, which directly impacts safety, compliance, and trust.”

Hours of service and accurate ELD records continue to be among the top inspection priorities for enforcement officers. Keeping clean, truthful logs protects drivers, their companies, and everyone else on the highway.

Brakes Lead the Pack in Vehicle Violations

Out of 44,435 Level I, II, and V inspections, 13,553 vehicle OOS violations were discovered. Brakes topped the list again, with 3,304 brake system issues — about 24.4% of all OOS violations. Another 2,257 violations came from trucks with 20% or more defective brakes. Together, that’s 41.1% of all vehicle OOS citations.

It’s another reminder for drivers to stay on top of brake maintenance — and to speak up when equipment isn’t right.

Common Driver Issues: Hours and Licensing

Of 54,953 driver inspections, 3,342 drivers (6.1%) were placed out of service. Hours-of-service violations were the biggest culprit, making up 32.4% (1,076) of all driver OOS citations. Other issues included licensing problems, false logbooks, and DUI violations.

Even small recordkeeping errors can raise red flags, so attention to detail remains critical for professional drivers.

Seat Belts and Safety

“During International Roadcheck, 726 seat belt violations were issued. According to FMCSA, 14% of commercial motor vehicle drivers do not wear their seat belt,” CVSA reported. Seat belts remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious injury or death in a crash.

Hazmat Checks

Hazardous materials inspections focused mainly on loading and securement, which accounted for 28.8% of all hazmat OOS violations. Inspectors emphasized that proper loading and labeling prevent leaks, spills, and serious safety risks — not just for the driver, but for the public and environment too.

The Big Picture

Across North America, inspectors applied 16,521 CVSA decals to trucks and trailers that passed clean inspections. Since the first International Roadcheck in 1988, CVSA has conducted over 1.8 million roadside inspections. This year alone, roughly 13 vehicles per minute were inspected.

The bottom line? Most truckers are doing things right. The annual blitz highlights just how much effort drivers put into staying compliant, keeping equipment in shape, and making sure they and everyone around them make it home safe.

To read the full CVSA report, click here.

Image Source: CVSA
Source: The Trucker

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Vehicles passing Level I or Level V inspections without critical violations may earn a CVSA decal valid for three months.

During the 2024 International Roadcheck, tire issues and brake-related violations accounted for over 50% of all Out-of-Service (OOS) violations.

“According to CVSA, nearly one in four commercial vehicles inspected during last year’s event was placed out of service,” said TJ Thomas, director of marketing and customer solutions for Bendix. “With brake systems, tires and other aspects of vehicles, attention to detail, consistent training and regular maintenance can deliver real-world safety and compliance improvements.”

To help drivers, technicians, and fleets prepare for Roadcheck 2025, Bendix offers key insights and best practices.

The Vital Role of Brake Maintenance in Safety

Brake-related violations remained the leading cause of OOS orders in 2024. CVSA reported that defective service brakes accounted for 25% of vehicle violations, while additional brake system-related issues comprised another 18%.

“Brake systems are the backbone of any truck’s safety suite,” said Rick Conklin, director of wheel-end engineering at Bendix. “Not only do they bring vehicles to a stop, but they also enable advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), like full-stability control and collision mitigation, to function optimally. If brakes underperform, the entire safety architecture is compromised.”

To prioritize brake safety, Bendix recommends daily walkarounds and in-shop inspections.

During walkarounds, look out for:

• Damaged air chambers
• Misaligned slack adjusters
• Extended pushrods

Technicians should perform these shop inspections:

• Measure brake chamber stroke and check adjustments.
• Conduct brake applications above 80 psi to identify air leaks.
• Inspect friction components for cracks, wear, or contamination.
• Evaluate drums and rotors for heat spots or damage.

“Brake performance starts with the right friction components,” Conklin added. “Using OEM-specified parts and meeting Reduced Stopping Distance (RSD) standards ensures braking balance. Replacing brake pads or shoes in matched axle sets is critical to maintaining performance.”

Conklin also emphasized the advantages of air disc brakes, highlighting their ease of inspection, reduced risk of out-of-adjustment violations, and exceptional performance benefits.

Tire Maintenance Tips for Roadcheck Compliance

Tires are another primary focus for Roadcheck 2025, with inspections including tread depth, inflation levels, sidewall integrity, and repair quality checks. Proper tire health reduces the risk of roadside incidents and unnecessary costs.

Over 20% of vehicle violations during the 2024 Roadcheck were tire-related, with underinflation being a common cause of failures.

“Underinflated tires are more than a wear issue – they’re a potential safety liability, increasing the chance of sudden failure due to excessive heat buildup,” said Brian Screeton, manager of technical training and service at Bendix. “With today’s technology, there’s no reason not to monitor the pressure in real-time and catch problems before they turn into emergencies.”

Bendix suggests using tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), like SmarTire and Trailer-Link, which continuously monitor tire pressure and temperature inside the cab.

“TPMS solutions do more than alert you to inflation issues,” Screeton said. “They can identify brake drag, which causes dangerous pressure and heat buildup at the wheel end.”

Tire maintenance recommendations include:

• Checking tread depth to meet legal standards.
• Inspecting sidewalls for damage or embedded objects.
• Ensuring dual tires are properly matched and inflated.
• Conducting routine rotations and alignments.

Tractor Protection Systems (TPS): A Step Not to Overlook

Although not a specific focus category for 2025, Tractor Protection Systems (TPS) remain crucial for trailer safety during unexpected disconnections. Over 560 TPS violations were reported during the 2024 Roadcheck.

“A well-functioning TPS can mean the difference between a safe stop and a runaway trailer,” Screeton stated.

Screeton outlined a straightforward method for verifying TPS operation:

1. Start the engine and allow the air system to pressurize fully.
2. Shut off the engine and disconnect the glad hands from the trailer.
3. Push in the red trailer-supply valve on the dash.
4. When air vents from the trailer-supply glad hand, the red valve should pop out automatically.
5. Press the brake pedal to confirm no air escapes the service glad hand.

“If the sequence behaves unexpectedly, the TPS requires a closer inspection,” he explained.

Screeton warned that contamination, such as dirt in the glad hand connection, can damage downstream components like the trailer relay valve, leading to dragging or brake release issues.

“When uncoupling glad hands, always use dummy couplers to keep out debris and prevent bigger problems,” he advised.

Stay Roadcheck-Ready with Expert Practices

Roadcheck initiatives like these are critical for reinforcing safety measures across North America. With proper maintenance and proactive checks, fleets and drivers can ensure compliance while enhancing overall safety.

By following these guidelines, you’ll meet safety standards and reduce your operational risks significantly. Stay safe out there!

Source: The Trucker

The post Bendix Shares Expert Tips for Keeping Trucks and Drivers Roadcheck-Ready appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters

Preventative maintenance means staying ahead of potential problems by conducting regular inspections, servicing, and minor repairs. It’s about checking oil, rotating tires, inspecting brakes, and keeping fluids at the right levels. Unlike reactive maintenance—which addresses issues after something breaks—PM is all about prevention, tackling trouble before it derails your day (and your budget).

The Real Cost of Neglecting Truck Maintenance

Skipping regular maintenance might seem like a time-saver, but the risks can be steep:

• Unexpected Breakdowns The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) notes that breakdowns can cost truckers up to $1,000 per day in lost revenue.
• Skyrocketing Repair Bills Small issues can snowball into costly ones—think an unchecked coolant leak leading to catastrophic engine failure.
• Safety Risks Poor maintenance ups the chances of dangerous incidents like brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering issues, putting you and others at risk.
• Compliance Fines The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates routine inspections and upkeep. Failure to comply could result in fines, downtime, or even removal from service.

Essentials of a Strong Preventative Maintenance Plan

To keep your truck running smoothly, prioritize these critical areas:

1. Daily and Deep Inspections

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip checks for visible issues, like worn tires and fluid leaks.
• Include periodic deeper inspections to assess components like hoses, belts, and the electrical system.

2. Oil & Fluids

• Stick to manufacturer-recommended oil changes (every 25,000–50,000 miles, depending on conditions).
• Regularly check and refill coolant, transmission, and brake fluids to keep systems operating smoothly.

3. Tires

• Keep tire pressure at optimal levels for better fuel efficiency and reduced wear.
• Regularly rotate them and check for damage or uneven patterns.

4. Brakes

• Inspect pads, rotors, and drums frequently for early signs of wear.
• Make sure air brake systems are leak-free and working as they should.

5. Electrical Systems

• Test your truck’s battery and charging systems to avoid power interruptions.
• Check that all warning signals and lights are fully functional.

6. Seasonal Prep

• Winterize your rig by using anti-gel additives and engine heaters.
• Check cooling systems and AC performance before summer hits.

Why Your Effort Pays Off

Proactive maintenance isn’t just good for your truck; it’s good for your bottom line. Here’s why staying consistent with PM is worth it:

• Minimizes unexpected downtime, letting you stay on track.
• Prevents small issues from escalating into sky-high repair costs.
• Improves fuel efficiency with well-maintained engines and properly inflated tires.
• Enhances driver safety with dependable brakes, tires, and lights.
• Extends your truck’s life span, delaying the need to replace expensive equipment.

Making Preventative Maintenance Work for You

Stick to a Maintenance Plan

• Use apps or logs to schedule upkeep consistently.
• Follow manufacturer PM intervals (typically every 15,000–30,000 miles).

Collaborate with a Trusted Mechanic

• Partner with skilled technicians who know commercial vehicles inside and out.

Leverage Telematics

• Modern telematics systems track performance and send real-time maintenance alerts.

Educate Yourself on the Basics

• Learn simple fixes like checking fluids, replacing fuses, or tightening loose cables—it could save you time and money on the road.

Preventative maintenance isn’t just about keeping your vehicle running; it’s about protecting your livelihood, saving money, and staying safe. By adopting a regular PM schedule, whether you’re an independent owner-operator or part of a larger fleet, you’re making an investment in your future success.

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