New Jersey Air Brakes Practice Test

The service brake system is designed specifically for the application and release of brakes when the driver presses the brake pedal. This system is crucial for regular driving operations, allowing the driver to control the vehicle's speed and stop when necessary. When the brake pedal is engaged, the service brake applies pressure to the brake components, functioning effectively whether it is an air brake or hydraulic system. This ensures responsive deceleration and stopping capabilities that are essential for safe driving.

In contrast, the spring brake system functions primarily as a secondary braking mechanism, engaging automatically when air pressure drops. The emergency brake system is designed to bring a vehicle to a stop in the event of failure of the service brakes, while the parking brake system is utilized to hold the vehicle stationary after it has been parked. Each of these systems has a distinct purpose, but only the service brake system directly responds to the driver's input through the brake pedal.