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How to Find Braking Points in Iracing

Learn how to find braking points in iRacing with clear, beginner-friendly steps for iRacing beginners. Build confidence, stop locking up, and shave tenths safely.

If opening a track in iRacing leaves you guessing where to hit the brakes, you’re not alone. The good news: braking points are teachable, repeatable, and much easier to find than they look. This article shows exactly what to check and a simple drill to practice.

Quick Answer

A braking point is the spot on the track where you begin braking to make a corner safely and fast. To find braking points in iRacing, use a mix of visual markers, telemetry (or on-screen data), consistent reference points, and short, repeatable runs to tune entry speed and brake pressure.

Why this matters for iRacing beginners

Knowing where to brake turns random slow corners into consistent laps. New to iRacing? You’ll save speed, reduce lockups, and build confidence faster by learning a reliable method instead of guessing each lap. Confusion often comes from trying to copy pros or using too many notes at once — start simple.

How to find braking points in iRacing

Warm up with slow laps: drive three steady laps at 70–80% pace to learn corner geometry.
Pick visible references: a corner apex, a kerb change, a patch of grass, a sign, or a shadow — something you can see every lap.
Start braking earlier than you think: pick a point 20–30% sooner than your gut. Brake steadily, note where rotation begins, then move the point forward in 1–2 meter steps until you’re at the limit without locking.
Use replay/telemetry: compare braking distances and speeds between runs. Look for wheel lock or wide entry as signs you braked too late or too hard.
Lock it into memory: repeat the best run 5 times to convert it to muscle memory.

Simple step-by-step guide

Choose one corner — don’t try to fix the whole lap.
Find a visual reference before the turn (sign, kerb end, tree).
On lap 1 brake early and gently to feel the car’s weight transfer.
On lap 2 move the point forward 1–2 meters and match brake pressure.
Repeat until you’re consistently hitting apex without locking or running wide.

Common mistakes and quick fixes

Mistake: Braking while turning in. Fix: Finish most braking in a straight line, then turn progressively.
Mistake: Using only one reference that’s inconsistent (sunlight, shadows). Fix: Pick multiple backups (kerb + sign).
Mistake: Chasing lap times immediately. Fix: focus on consistency first; speed follows.

Small practice drill

Pick one medium-speed corner. Do 10 consecutive laps: laps 1–3 at 70%, laps 4–6 move brake point forward by a small amount each lap, laps 7–10 hold the best line and replicate. Record one lap replay and compare braking speed.

Quick pro iRacing tips

Use the in-sim telemetry or iRacing’s “Driving Line” only as a starting point.
Reduce sensitivity of force feedback spikes to feel initial lock-up.
Note brake pressure (if your wheel shows it) — aim for progressive modulation.
Practice in test sessions with low fuel for consistency.

FAQs

Q: Can I use the iRacing driving line to find braking points?
A: Yes as a starting guide, but rely on your own visual references and telemetry to refine it.

Q: How long until braking points become natural?
A: With focused practice, one corner can feel natural in a session; a whole track takes several outings.

Q: What if I keep locking the front wheels?
A: Brake earlier, reduce pressure, or check brake balance/setup. Also verify controller deadzones.

Q: Where can I ask for help?
A: iRacing forums, setup guides, and community Discord channels are friendly places to share replays and get specific advice.

Final takeaway Start small: pick one corner each session, use clear visual references, and practice the short drill above. In your next run, aim for consistency over speed — the braking points will follow.