1. Initial fade: This occurs when the brakes start to lose effectiveness after prolonged or heavy use. The brake pads and rotors may become overheated, causing a decrease in braking power.
2. Intermediate fade: As the brakes continue to be used without sufficient time to cool down, the fade can worsen. The brake pedal may feel spongy or require more pressure to engage, and there may be a noticeable decrease in stopping power.
3. Severe fade: If the brakes are pushed beyond their limits without proper cooling or maintenance, severe fade can occur. This is when the brakes lose almost all effectiveness, and the vehicle may struggle to come to a complete stop. This can be extremely dangerous and requires immediate attention to prevent accidents.