When should brake pedal movement be checked?

The brake pedal movement should be checked with the engine off to accurately assess the function of the braking system. When the engine is off, there is no additional pressure from the power brake booster, allowing the inspector to measure the travel of the brake pedal more directly. This ensures that any movement of the pedal is solely due to the mechanical linkages and the hydraulic systems of the brakes themselves.

In this scenario, checking the pedal with the engine running could give a misleading impression of the brake system’s functionality since the booster may assist in pedal movement, masking potential issues like excessive travel or wear in the brake components. Checking while driving the vehicle is also not appropriate for a stationary inspection, as it doesn’t allow for the accurate measurement needed. Lastly, limiting inspections to only during a repair overlooks the importance of regular safety checks to ensure the vehicle is always in optimal condition for safe operation.