CDL Vehicle Combination Practice Test

What should you do if you suspect an air leak while inspecting your combination vehicle?

1. Continue driving until a mechanic can take a look

2. Shut off the engine and check for leaks

3. Only check the glad hands

4. Ignore it if it is minor

The correct answer is: Shut off the engine and check for leaks

If you suspect an air leak while inspecting your combination vehicle, shutting off the engine and checking for leaks is the appropriate action to take. This ensures safety by preventing any further operation of the vehicle, which could exacerbate the problem or lead to a more dangerous situation. When the engine is off, you can safely inspect the various components of the air system without the risk of moving parts or systems affecting your assessment. It's essential to look for leaks in areas such as the air lines, fittings, and brake chambers. Identifying and addressing an air leak promptly can prevent more significant issues down the road, ensuring the vehicle operates safely and efficiently. In contrast, continuing to drive with a suspected air leak can lead to brake failure, reduced air pressure, or other critical malfunctions, posing serious risks to safety. Focusing solely on checking the glad hands is insufficient because air leaks can occur in various other areas, while ignoring a minor leak could lead to more severe problems that compromise both vehicle performance and driver safety.