What are the consequences of using service brakes on long downhill slopes?

[DelKingston]

Continuously using service brakes on long downhill slopes can cause the brake temperature to rise, leading to a sharp decline in braking effectiveness. In severe cases, it may even result in brake failure. Below are some key points about service brakes: 1. During normal driving, service brakes (foot brakes) are primarily used to slow down or stop the vehicle while in motion. 2. Once the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the parking brake (handbrake) should be engaged to prevent the vehicle from rolling forward or backward. 3. If the service brake system malfunctions, it is advisable to cease driving immediately. Brake system failures often manifest as complete brake failure, reduced braking efficiency, uneven braking, or pulling to one side during braking, all of which can easily lead to traffic accidents if driving continues.

[StRobert]

I remember once going down a long mountain slope while constantly pressing the brakes. After driving for more than ten kilometers, the brake pedal suddenly became soft and failed, nearly causing an accident. That was because the brake discs overheated to 500-600°C, the friction pads wore out, and the brake fluid boiled and bubbled. Since then, I've learned to use engine braking to control speed, such as shifting to a lower gear to let the engine rev higher and slow the car down. When descending long slopes, don't rely solely on the foot brake—continuous pressing can overheat the components, potentially causing the entire system to fail or even catch fire. Also, make sure to regularly check the brake fluid level and adhere to oil change intervals, especially for older cars—don't take risks on steep slopes. Safety first—developing good habits can save a lot on repair costs.

[Jayla]

As someone who frequently drives on long trips, I find relying solely on foot braking during long descents to be quite dangerous. It can cause the brake discs and pads to overheat, deform, and wear out faster. In severe cases, it may even lead to brake failure or tire fires. When encountering this situation, I notice the pedal becoming stiff or spongy, so I pull over to let the components cool down. I usually recommend practicing engine braking techniques more often—such as downshifting in manual cars or using speed-limiting modes in automatics. This not only protects the vehicle but also extends the lifespan of the brakes. Extra caution is needed when driving in mountainous areas—carrying a wet cloth to cool the wheels as a precaution is wise. Always remember to keep your speed within safe limits—prevention is always better than repairs.

[GenesisMarie]

I used to work as a car mechanic and saw many cases of brake abuse during long downhill drives. Continuous friction on brake components can cause temperatures to exceed 600°C, turning discs and pads blue with deformation, and boiling the brake fluid until it fails. It's best to use the engine's lower gears to control downhill speed and avoid prolonged braking. Regular maintenance of the braking system is also crucial.