How can you tell if your brakes are functioning properly?

To determine if your brakes are functioning properly, feeling the brake pedal's firmness and responsiveness is essential. When the brake pedal is pressed, it should not feel spongy or sink to the floor; instead, it should provide immediate feedback, allowing the driver to feel in control of the vehicle's stopping ability. A firm and responsive brake pedal indicates that the braking system is maintaining the appropriate hydraulic pressure and that the brake components are working efficiently.

Listening for noise when pressing the brakes is not always an indicator of proper functioning. While some brakes might emit a sound due to wear indicators suggesting maintenance is needed, noise can also suggest issues rather than a standard measure of functionality.

Having the brake light off is more about the alert system than brake function itself. A brake light that comes on can indicate various potential issues, but its absence doesn't guarantee that all brake components are in good condition.

Finally, feeling no resistance when pressing the brake pedal is a concern. It suggests that the braking system may be failing to engage properly, which can lead to a lack of control while driving. So, the correct answer is rooted in the tactile feedback one receives when pressing the brake pedal, which is fundamental to assessing brake performance.