During a pre-trip inspection, what condition would indicate brake shoes are not acceptable?

• A. Oil, grease, or brake fluid on shoes
• B. Shoes are clean
• C. Shoes are painted
• D. Shoes show minor wear

Answer: (A)

Oil, grease, or brake fluid on the brake shoes means the friction surface is contaminated. When the shoe material gets coated with these substances, it can’t grip the drum properly, causing reduced braking effectiveness, longer stopping distances, and a higher risk of brake failure. That contamination directly indicates the brakes are not acceptable for safe operation, so the system should be inspected and repaired before driving.

For context, clean shoes are a good sign, minor wear can be acceptable within limits, and painting the shoes isn’t part of normal inspection practice because it can hide wear or contaminate the friction surface. The key safety takeaway is that contamination from oil, grease, or brake fluid is a red flag you must address.