What is Brake Fade?
2 Answers
Brake fade refers to the phenomenon where prolonged braking causes the brake discs to overheat, leading to a decrease in braking force and eventual complete loss. Here are the details: 1. Description: Brake fade occurs when the mechanical performance of the braking system deteriorates under high temperatures. Specifically, intense friction between the brake discs and pads generates excessive heat, causing a reduction in braking force. Under extreme heat, the braking performance weakens, and if the temperature exceeds the limit, it can result in brake failure. When brake fade occurs, the inability to provide sufficient braking force increases the stopping distance, posing a safety risk. 2. Prevention: Before driving, inspect the brake pads to ensure they are free from oil (oil can corrode the pads). Avoid sudden braking; instead, use intermittent braking. If brake fade occurs, allow the vehicle to slow down naturally without accelerating, apply gentle braking, and avoid pouring water on the wheel rims to cool them (water molecules can accelerate rubber wear).
I once experienced a scary situation during a long mountain drive when continuous downhill braking caused the brakes to feel spongy - this is brake fade. Simply put, when you brake frequently during driving (like descending mountains or carrying heavy loads), the friction between brake pads and rotors generates excessive heat. When temperatures rise too high, the braking material's performance degrades with reduced friction coefficient, making braking less effective. More dangerously, brake fluid may boil and form bubbles (like boiling water in a pot), making the pedal feel soft. This significantly increases stopping distance, especially dangerous at highway speeds or in rainy conditions. Prevention methods include using engine braking more often by shifting to lower gears to share the load, avoiding constant hard braking. Regular maintenance like checking brake systems, replacing brake fluid, and ensuring cooling vents aren't blocked is crucial. Remember: safe driving means pacing yourself, especially during hot summers or mountain driving.
