What are the causes of brake pad overheating?
3 Answers
Brake pad overheating is caused by poor retraction of the brake caliper leading to brake drag, or excessive braking frequency during driving which causes the brake disc to overheat. During vehicle operation, try to avoid frequent braking as it not only easily leads to brake disc overheating and damage, but may also cause harm to car tires, the engine, and automatic transmissions. The following introduces brake pads: 1. Definition and function of brake pads: Automobile brake pads, also called brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the rotating brake drum or brake disc of the wheel. The friction lining and friction block bear external pressure to generate friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration. 2. Composition of brake pads: Automobile brake pads are generally composed of steel plates, bonded heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The steel plates are coated to prevent rust, and the coating process uses SMT-4 furnace temperature tracking instruments to monitor the temperature distribution during coating to ensure quality.
I often drive in stop-and-go city traffic, and I've also encountered the issue of brake pads overheating. It's mainly caused by the friction heat generated from frequent braking not having enough time to dissipate. Especially during rush hour commutes when you constantly brake and start in traffic jams, the repeated actions accumulate heat, raising the temperature of the brake pads. Additionally, if your car is carrying too much load, the increased weight puts more pressure on the brakes during stopping, intensifying friction and heat generation. Another scenario is when descending long slopes - if you rely solely on the brakes to control speed without downshifting to let the engine assist with braking, the brake system will quickly overheat and wear out. I remember one summer when I parked after driving errands and smelled a burning odor - upon inspection, the brake pads were too hot to touch. Since then, I've made sure to use engine braking more often on slopes to spare the brakes. Overheated brake pads not only reduce lifespan but can also compromise braking performance, creating safety hazards. Therefore, it's best to avoid sudden stops in daily driving, regularly inspect the brake system to ensure calipers aren't sticking, and address any issues promptly. If you notice soft brake pedal feel or unusual noises while driving, get it checked immediately - safety always comes before saving money.
I worked in an auto repair shop for a while. One common reason for brake pads overheating is issues with the braking system itself, such as poor caliper retraction or hydraulic pump blockage causing brake drag. When you drive, the brake pads continuously rub against the disc, generating persistent heat. Additionally, if the brake pad material is inappropriate or the gap wasn't adjusted properly during installation, low friction efficiency can actually produce more heat. Frequent braking in congested areas over extended periods naturally leads to faster heat buildup, while brake disc deformation or irregular wear can exacerbate uneven heat distribution, causing localized overheating. I recommend regular maintenance checks, including cleaning caliper dust to ensure smooth retraction, and choosing high-quality brake pads when replacing them to reduce high-temperature deformation. During daily driving, especially on downhill roads, remember to use engine braking in combination with the brakes rather than relying solely on them. This effectively avoids the risk of brake failure due to overheating. Addressing brake abnormalities early can extend component lifespan and improve driving safety.
