Brake Testing

Brake testing that gives you the numbers

Brake performance isn’t something you can assess by feel alone — especially on a heavy vehicle where the consequences of underperformance are severe. Our roller brake tester measures actual braking force at each wheel, calculates efficiency percentages, and identifies imbalances that would cause an annual test failure or, worse, a roadside prohibition.

Why brake testing matters

The DVSA requires minimum braking efficiencies: 50% for the service brake on HGVs, 50% for the service brake on trailers, and 25% for the secondary (parking) brake. From 2025, laden brake tests are now part of the annual test — meaning the vehicle must demonstrate adequate braking performance at or near its gross weight, not just unladen.

What we test

Each wheel is tested individually on the roller brake tester, measuring peak braking force, brake imbalance between nearside and offside, ovality (variation through one wheel revolution, indicating drum or disc defects), and parking brake holding force. The results are printed and can be used as evidence for fleet compliance records.

Pre-annual-test checks

We recommend a brake test before every annual test. If the numbers are marginal, we can carry out brake adjustments or component replacement before the test — avoiding a failure, a retest fee, and a vehicle sitting idle.

Fleet brake health monitoring

For fleets, regular brake testing between annual tests gives you early warning of wear patterns, failing components, or air system issues — well before they become a roadside risk.