Illinois CDL Practice Exam 2025 - Free CDL Practice Questions and Study Guide

Performing an air brake system check during the pre-trip inspection is essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of the braking system before the vehicle is operated. This allows the driver to identify any potential issues with the air brakes, such as leaks, low pressure, or malfunctioning components, which could compromise the vehicle's performance on the road.

Conducting the check as part of the pre-trip inspection fosters a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance and safety. It ensures that any necessary repairs or adjustments can be made before the trip begins, reducing the risk of brake failure or related accidents during transit.

Other choices suggest performing checks at inappropriate times, which might lead to overlooking critical safety issues that could arise while driving. For instance, checking only when brakes feel unresponsive could result in a dangerous situation on the road, while conducting checks at the end of a long day may not allow for any corrective actions to be taken before future trips. Additionally, limiting checks to before every trip would not catch issues that could develop during a trip, thereby undermining safety.