Abstract: Devices and methods for testing the brake system of a vehicle. Embodiments of the invention generally include an extendable rod that is adapted for removable installation between the steering wheel and brake pedal of a vehicle whose brake system is to be tested. Manual depression of the brake pedal with the device in place causes an extension of the extendable rod, the magnitude of which is measured by an associated sensor as brake pedal travel. A force sensor is provided to detect the amount of force applied to the brake pedal by a user's foot during testing. A controller receives signals from the sensors and determines whether the brake system passes the test. The controller may be coupled to an on-board diagnostics connector of the vehicle to receive and analyze other vehicle data, and to read the VIN of the vehicle.

Abstract: Devices and methods for testing the brake system of a vehicle. Embodiments of the invention generally include an extendable rod that is adapted for removable installation between the steering wheel and brake pedal of a vehicle whose brake system is to be tested. Manual depression of the brake pedal with the device in place causes an extension of the extendable rod, the magnitude of which is measured by an associated sensor as brake pedal travel. A force sensor is provided to detect the amount of force applied to the brake pedal by a user's foot during testing. A controller receives signals from the sensors and determines whether the brake system passes the test. The controller may be coupled to an on-board diagnostics connector of the vehicle to receive and analyze other vehicle data, and to read the VIN of the vehicle.