How to Deal with Overheated Brakes?
3 Answers
When the car's brake pads overheat, it is necessary to slow down and maintain a steady speed. Additionally, avoid frequent braking and find an opportunity to stop the car for a rest of 30 minutes or 60 minutes to allow recovery. Relevant information about braking is as follows: 1. Introduction: Refers to the action of stopping or reducing the speed of running locomotives, vehicles, other transport tools, or machinery. 2. Principle: The general principle of braking involves fixing a wheel or disc on the high-speed shaft of the machine and installing corresponding brake shoes, bands, or discs on the machine base, which generate braking torque under external force.
When I noticed the brakes were overheating, I immediately looked for a safe place to pull over and turned on the hazard lights to alert other drivers. I made sure not to continue pressing the brakes, allowing the vehicle to coast and slow down naturally to avoid increasing friction. After stopping, I turned off the engine and opened the hood to promote air circulation, patiently waiting at least 30 minutes for it to cool down completely. I never pour cold water on the brake discs, as rapid cooling can cause warping or cracking, leading to greater danger. After cooling, I check the brake pads and disc surfaces; if there's abnormal wear or unusual noises, I drive straight to the repair shop. This situation usually happens on long downhill stretches, so now I've learned to be smarter when driving in mountainous areas: I shift to a lower gear in advance to use engine braking and reduce the burden on the brakes. Remember, timely action can prevent complete brake failure and save lives.
I always prioritize preventing brake overheating. Before driving, I plan my route to avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration on steep slopes or congested roads. When driving in mountainous areas, I habitually switch to manual mode and use lower gears like second or third to control speed, utilizing engine braking to share the load on the brakes—it's both effortless and efficient. For routine maintenance, I make it a point to check brake pad thickness and brake fluid levels every six months, promptly replacing them if I notice wear or the fluid turning black. While driving, I stay alert for early warning signs like unusual smells or a spongy brake pedal, and I immediately pull over for a quick inspection—simple and hassle-free. Cultivating smooth driving habits, such as maintaining a safe following distance and braking gently in advance, can significantly reduce heat buildup, ensuring both safety and extended brake life.
