The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance will finish Brake Safety Week on Aug. 29, zeroing in on brake drums and rotors during roadside checks.

Drum cracks, rotor rust and worn surfaces can drop stopping power, raise freight rates through delays, and trigger FMCSA citations, making early detection vital for every CDL driver and owner‑operator.

What This Means for Truck Drivers

Drivers must add a visual scan of drums and rotors to pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections, noting any cracks, missing metal or excessive rust on the driver vehicle inspection report. Any rig flagged with a drum or rotor defect will be placed out of service until a qualified shop restores the component to manufacturer specs, halting mileage until repairs are signed off.

Key Takeaways

• Inspect drums for cracks, gouges or uneven wear; replace if damage exceeds 1/8 inch.
• Check rotors for deep rust, cracked cooling vents or metal‑to‑metal contact from thin pads; service before the next load.
• Document every finding on the DVIR; failure to report can lead to FMCSA penalties and lost freight.
• Schedule routine brake‑system audits during downtime to keep fleets compliant and avoid unexpected out‑of‑service orders.

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