Brake Maintenance

How to Tell If Your Caravan Brakes Need Servicing

Pulling to one side? Spongy brake response? Grinding noise? Here are the signs your caravan's brakes need attention.

Mechanic working on brake system

Your caravan's brakes don't often give you much warning before they cause a problem. Unlike a car, you can't easily feel caravan brake performance from the driver's seat — by the time something is noticeably wrong, the issue is usually well advanced.

Signs Your Caravan Brakes Need Attention

The van pulls to one side when braking

Usually means one side's brakes are applying more force. This can be a brake controller calibration issue, worn or seized brake magnet, or uneven brake shoe wear.

Spongy or delayed brake response

If the van coasts rather than brakes — particularly on a descent — the brake magnets may be worn, wiring may have a poor connection, or controller may not be calibrated correctly.

Grinding or squealing from the wheels

Noise when applying brakes usually means brake shoe material has worn down and metal is contacting metal. This is a replacement job, not a service.

Warning light activates

If your AMS light or brake controller warning activates, have it diagnosed before your next trip.

What's Involved in a Caravan Brake Service

A thorough brake service at Alpine Caravan Services covers:

  • Drum inspection — for scoring, cracking, and minimum thickness compliance
  • Brake shoe inspection — measuring and assessing remaining material
  • Brake magnet testing — for output and condition
  • Wiring check — for corrosion, chafing, and secure contact
  • Handbrake adjustment — cable adjusted and system tested

How Often Should Caravan Brakes Be Serviced?

Every 10,000 km or 12 months — whichever comes first. If you travel frequently over rough or unsealed roads, we recommend more frequent checks. Dust and grit accelerate wear inside the drum assembly.

Book a Brake Service

If you're in Melbourne's eastern suburbs and your caravan brakes are overdue, get in touch with Alpine Caravan Services in Kilsyth.

Book Now