We know the different problems that our brake pads can have. From a worn surface to a poorly fitting part, there is always a diagnosis of problematic brake pads. One problem that not many people know about is brake fade.

Over time, the entire system could weaken due to how often we use them. Brake fade is the loss of power in the system. This is often caused by nothing less than a frictionless surface.

This happens with constant application of the brakes. Wear will especially occur when the brakes are applied with great force under high forces, such as speed. Heat is also a major cause of brake fading resulting in a frictionless surface on both the pad and the disc. High pressure will cause a drastic build-up of heat resulting in a worn surface.

Heating the fluid will also cause the brakes to fade. Boiling brake fluid will make the pedal feel spongy and it will show quickly. Sometimes brake fluid will accumulate contaminants that could be a reason why your brakes are spongy. This will require a complete brake fluid replacement procedure.

Brake fade can also occur during high-performance driving activities, such as when sudden braking and braking might be necessary when going down a hill. With a slope, momentum builds up easily and to stop that natural flow it would take great force to stop.

If, for example, wear has occurred on only one of the brakes, the load from the car or truck will be transferred to the remaining working brakes. Can you imagine uneven force on the brakes? This will increase the rate of wear and damage with these uneven surfaces.

Brake fade is extremely dangerous to drive. Without the friction on the surface, braking could become impossible. Some high-performance vehicles have a separate system that works in conjunction with the brakes. This system enhances the power of the braking function which improves friction and reduces the amount of fade that could occur.

If you find that the brakes are no longer in optimal condition and you may feel like braking is getting more difficult, then you need to replace the brake pads immediately. While driving to the nearest mechanic or workshop, use the emergency brake. Just lift “one click” and release it almost immediately to slow the car down when it comes to a stop. This could damage that isolated system, but at least it can be stopped when ordered.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *