Before a long road trip - especially one with mountains or a loaded car - a quick brake check gives peace of mind and can prevent trouble far from home. Here is a simple pre-trip brake check.
Check pad thickness and rotors
Look at the pad thickness through the wheel - if they are near the limit, replace them before you go, not on the road; see when to replace pads. Glance at the rotor faces for deep scoring or a heavy lip.
Check the fluid
Make sure the brake fluid is at the right level and not dark and old - long descents with a loaded car stress the fluid, and fresh fluid resists fade; see brake heat. Top off only if needed and address the reason if it is low; see fluid leak signs.
Listen and feel on a test drive
Take a short drive and note any squeal, grind, pulsation, or pull; see pedal vibration and pull when braking. A firm, quiet, straight-stopping pedal is what you want before a big trip.
Fix issues before you leave
Handle anything you find at home where you have your tools and a trusted shop - not stranded on the highway; see inspection checklist. If you need parts, fit quality pads and hardware.