When should you test the stopping action of your service brakes?

The appropriate time to test the stopping action of your service brakes is when the vehicle is moving at about 5 mph. This speed is low enough to allow for a safe assessment of the braking system’s effectiveness without risking loss of control or causing damage. Testing at a low speed ensures that if the brakes are not functioning correctly, the driver can react safely to the situation, whether it's to stop or analyze any potential issues with the braking system. Additionally, it allows the driver to gauge the sensitivity and responsiveness of the brakes in a controlled environment, helping to confirm that they are working as intended before proceeding to higher speeds where stopping distances are critical. Testing the brakes when stationary wouldn't provide an accurate representation of their performance under driving conditions, while higher speeds might pose a safety risk in the event of brake failure.