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Check sticking brakes using a thermal camera | Masters of Motion

How to check sticking brakes using a thermal camera

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Braking Maintenance Solutions How to

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Here we’re going to take a look at how to use a thermal camera to identify faulty or sticking brakes.

There are a number of ways to investigate a car’s brake performance, including a roller brake tester, or raising the vehicle to feel for resistance manually. But using a thermal camera is often the quickest way to find the brake that’s causing the problem.

Laura, our Delphi expert, shows you how it’s done using a Kia Sportage as an example vehicle. She explains:

Why sticking brakes can be a problem
The different methods for diagnosing them
How simple using a thermal camera is

What problems do sticking brakes cause?

If your vehicle’s brakes aren’t free, there’ll be a constant drag, resulting in more fuel used - and of course, reduced fuel economy.

Why is a thermal camera useful for brake testing?

Brakes will tend to give off more heat if they’re malfunctioning or sticking. They can even indicate the precise part of the brake that’s affecting performance.

Can a thermal camera be used for other vehicle parts?

Yes. A thermal camera can be used to diagnose electrical defects such as loose connections or faulty components. It can also help you assess exhaust leaks, faulty heating elements, air conditioning issues, and catalytic converter problems.