The measured interval between the moment the driver removes pressure from the brake pedal and the moment the braking force at the wheels drops to zero. In hydraulic systems, this depends on fluid returning to the master cylinder; in air brakes, it relies on air exhausting from the brake chambers. Excessive release time causes brake drag, overheating, and poor fuel economy.
The truck failed the DOT inspection because the air brake release time on the trailer was over three seconds.
Related terms
Active braking time
The exact duration that brake pads are applying friction to the rotors during a stop.
Brake assembly
A complete, pre-assembled unit containing the components needed to replace a vehicle's braking mechanism.
Heavy vehicle
A large commercial truck or bus designed to carry extreme loads or numerous passengers.