Michigan CDL - Air Brakes Practice Exam

How does the air brake system in a vehicle react when the brake pedal is pressed?

1. It engages the transmission

2. It reduces engine speed

3. It activates the brake lights and engages the brakes

4. It opens the throttle

The correct answer is: It activates the brake lights and engages the brakes

When the brake pedal is pressed in a vehicle equipped with an air brake system, the action primarily activates the brake lights and engages the brakes. This occurs because pressing the brake pedal sends a signal to the air brake system to release air pressure to the brake chambers, which causes the brake shoes or pads to contact the brake drum or rotor, effectively slowing down or stopping the vehicle. Additionally, activating the brake lights serves as a warning to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, enhancing safety on the road. The other choices do not accurately describe the function of the air brake system in response to pressing the brake pedal. Engaging the transmission and reducing engine speed are not primary functions of the air brake system but rather characteristics associated with the vehicle's overall operation managed by the transmission system and engine control systems. Opening the throttle would be counterintuitive when braking, as it would cause the vehicle to accelerate rather than slow down. Thus, the correct choice highlights the critical safety and braking functionality of the air brake system.