What are the reasons for reduced braking power?
4 Answers
There are several reasons for reduced engine power in cars: Excessive carbon buildup on valves and intake pipes: Excessive carbon buildup on valves and intake pipes is a common cause of decreased car power. The solution is to have professional automotive technicians clean the carbon deposits and check if the spark plugs need replacement. Blockages or vapor lock in fuel lines: Inspect the fuel supply system for any blockages or vapor lock in the fuel lines, check if the fuel pump is functioning properly, verify if the carburetor float chamber fuel level meets specified requirements, examine if the air filter is clogged, and check if the exhaust system is obstructed. Improper tire pressure: Improper tire pressure, especially when underinflated with multiple passengers, can be particularly noticeable. Therefore, when inflating tires, ensure they are properly filled according to the tire pressure chart indicated on the vehicle body.
As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with car repairs, I believe the reduction in power when applying the brakes is primarily because the braking system converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into heat through friction, thereby achieving deceleration. It's like suddenly stepping into a puddle while running to stop—your legs feel like they can't exert force. During normal driving, the engine's output propels the car forward, but when you press the brake, the brake calipers clamp down on the brake discs or drums, creating frictional resistance that directly acts on the wheels, counteracting the original accelerating force. If the friction is too strong or the system malfunctions—such as brake fluid leakage or rusted calipers failing to retract properly—it can add extra resistance, leading to a permanent loss of power. In such cases, it's necessary to check for wear or replace components to ensure safe operation.
Having driven for decades, every time I step on the brake, I can feel the car instantly lose momentum, with a noticeable reduction in power. This is primarily due to the friction between the brake pads and brake discs at work, similar to blocking a spinning wheel with an iron plate. Under normal conditions, this transition is safe. However, if the brake fluid has aged and formed bubbles or the pedal feels soft when pressed, the resistance might not be evenly distributed, causing an abnormal loss of power. In such cases, it's advisable to have a technician inspect the brake system and tire pressure to prevent accidents.
It's common for the car's power to decrease when braking while picking up or dropping off family members, simply because the brakes are slowing the wheels down through resistance to ensure safety. If there are no other issues, don't worry—it's basically just a power shift caused by wheel deceleration. However, if the car doesn't accelerate well after braking, it might be due to incomplete brake release or fluid leakage in the oil circuit adding extra load.
