What is brake fade?

Brake fade refers to a reduction in braking performance due to overheating. During braking, the friction generated between the brake pads and the rotors creates heat. When brakes are used excessively or under hard conditions (like driving downhill or repeated hard stops), the components can become too hot, causing a decrease in friction effectiveness. This results in a longer stopping distance and can even lead to brake failure in extreme cases. Understanding brake fade is crucial for maintaining effective braking performance, especially in situations where brakes might be heavily utilized. Recognizing the signs of brake fade can help drivers take appropriate measures, such as allowing the brakes to cool or adjusting their driving style to enhance safety.