How can you check that your service brakes are functioning properly?

To confirm that service brakes are functioning properly, moving forward slowly, waiting for normal air pressure, and then firmly applying the brakes is a reliable method. This process allows you to engage the braking system under real operating conditions. By waiting for normal air pressure, you ensure that the air brake system is fully operational, which is crucial for safe braking performance.

When you apply the brakes while moving forward slowly, you can feel how effectively they are engaging. A firm application should bring the vehicle to a stop without any unusual behavior, such as pulling to one side or being unresponsive, which could indicate brake issues. This method directly tests the braking capability and responsiveness as it would occur during actual driving.

In contrast, parking on a steep incline may not provide a proper gauge of how the brakes will perform under normal driving conditions, as external factors like the slope can misleadingly suggest brake functionality. Chocking the wheels and pumping the brake pedal with the engine off does not simulate the real pressures and dynamics involved when the vehicle is in motion, thereby limiting the effectiveness of this method. Checking exhaust emissions while braking does not provide any relevant information about brake performance, as it pertains to the vehicle's emissions rather than brake functionality.