Why Can't the Brakes Hold Well on Rainy Days?
2 Answers
Because roads are wet and slippery on rainy days, the tire adhesion decreases, and the braking effect is significantly weakened. Here are some relevant introductions: 1. Speed: When encountering water on the road, the speed should be reduced to 20~30 km/h. Reducing speed should mainly rely on the throttle and light braking, and sudden braking must be used with caution. Driving in the rain also requires ensuring that the air conditioning is in good condition, as rain can easily create fog on the windows, and the air conditioning is the most effective method to clear the fog. 2. Precautions: The biggest difficulty in driving in the rain is poor visibility. The low visibility on rainy days can affect the driver's reaction sensitivity. Additionally, driving too close to the vehicle in front can cause water spray from high-speed driving to blur the windshield, so a larger driving distance than usual should be maintained.
In rainy weather, the main reason brakes fail to stop the car effectively is that rainwater makes the road surface slippery, significantly reducing the grip between the tires and the ground. I've experienced this situation before while driving—when I pressed the brake pedal, it felt soft, and the car didn't stop in time. Excessive water accumulation can also lead to hydroplaning, where the tires float on the water and skid, resulting in a complete loss of control. The braking system itself may also be affected by moisture; for example, wet brake pads reduce friction, requiring more force to stop. I recommend driving slower in the rain, maintaining double the usual following distance, and allowing for a longer braking distance. Regularly check the tread depth of your tires—having at least 3mm of tread can improve grip. Avoid sudden braking while driving; instead, apply the brakes gently in advance to prevent skidding. If you encounter standing water, don’t drive straight through it—changing lanes to avoid it is the safest option. Developing good driving habits can greatly reduce the risk of accidents.
