The driver of a Polish car transporter was caught up in a BAG check on the motorway near 01099 Dresden and called us to resolve the situation. The police told us that they saw smoke emerging from the wheels of the trailer and that the temperature of both sides of the axle was measured at 80°C and 100°C respectively, which is why the vehicle was prohibited from driving. The cause: four brake linings and brake drums were completely worn and had to be replaced. We organised the spare parts, sent the mechanic directly to the parking lot to carry out the replacement and made the truck ready for use again.
BALG (BAG) inspections in Germany
More than half a million trucks and buses on Germany's roads are inspected every year by the BALG road inspection service (formerly known as the BAG). In addition to checking driving times and rest periods, as well as documents and licences, BALG officers are authorised to carry out technical roadside inspections (TUK). The brake and steering systems, vehicle lights, wheels, axles and the tachograph are can be checked for their functionality. If defects are found on the truck or its trailer, it may be prohibited from continuing its journey - the only options are sufficient on-site repairs or expensive towing to the nearest workshop.
Defective truck brakes - a danger on the road
According to the German Federal Statistical Office, freight transport vehicles were involved in more than 21,000 road accidents with personal injury in Germany in 2021. In addition to purely human error as the main cause, technical defects in the vehicles themselves also played a major role, with defective and worn brakes being one of the most frequently cited causes of accidents after tyre blowouts. A considerable number of technical defects in road traffic can be attributed to neglected vehicle maintenance: Worn brake callipers on a truck, for example, can cause the vehicle to pull to the left or right as soon as the brakes are applied. Worn brake discs or pads increase the braking distance and make it more difficult to react to unexpected traffic movements.
Truck brake checks
As a rule of thumb, you should have the brakes of a truck checked by a specialist approximately every 20,000 km, but the area of use, type of vehicle and driving style have a huge influence on this general number. Brake pads and brake discs are wearing parts that need to be replaced regularly, as well as the brake calliper in some cases. However, if you notice symptoms of worn or defective brakes, you should visit a professional immediately to avoid risking serious damages:
- Squealing or grinding noises when braking
- The truck pulls to the left or right when braking
- Vibrations, unusual brake feel
- Reduced braking effect