19. Brake several times with different force applied to the brake pedal. If the car «leads away» to the right, then the brake action of the left front or rear wheel is weakened. A long stopping distance that is not the same on both sides indicates the uneven action of the brake mechanisms. When performing the following test, release the steering wheel, but keep your hands ready to make sure that the steering wheel does not turn to the side when braking.
20. Test the parking brake by rolling down a slope.
Due to the wear of the brake linings, the parking brake lever stroke gradually increases. If braking of the rear wheels is not ensured when the parking brake lever is tightened to the 4th or 5th tooth of the sector, then the brake should be adjusted. Checking the braking of the rear wheels in this case should be carried out on a jacked up car. The procedure for adjusting the parking brake is indicated in the appropriate chapter.
The most accurate result of the state of the brake system can be obtained by checking it on the stand, which is recommended.
Checking the brake system for leaks
21. Check up a condition of brake pipelines and hoses. They should not be rusty, bent or pinched. Wet black dirt on the connecting joints indicates a brake fluid leak. Brake hoses must not show signs of rubbing or be swollen
Wet black dirt on the calipers, bleeder fittings and at the connecting joint of the brake hose indicates a leak.
22. Make sure the bleeders are covered with dust caps.
23. Check the brake system. To do this, press the brake pedal with sufficient force (approximately 300 N) and hold it in that position. The resistance to pressing the pedal should not decrease even after a few minutes. Otherwise, you should find and eliminate the leak in the system or check the brake master cylinder, which may be faulty.
Checking the brake pads
The brake pads on the front brakes wear faster and should therefore be checked more frequently than the rears. There is a warning light on the instrument panel that lights up when the brake pads are worn to the minimum allowable value.
When installing new brake pads on the mechanisms of the front wheels, it is imperative to check the condition of the brake pads on the rear wheels.
24. Check the functioning of the brake lights, as well as the horn, reversing lights and parking lights.