What is brake fade?

Brake fade is a phenomenon that occurs when the brakes on a vehicle lose their effectiveness due to overheating. This can happen when the brakes are applied repeatedly and aggressively, such as during heavy braking or driving down a steep hill. As the brakes heat up, the brake pads and rotors can become less efficient at converting kinetic energy into heat, leading to a decrease in braking power. This can result in longer stopping distances and potentially dangerous situations for the driver and passengers. Brake fade can be temporary, as the brakes cool down and regain their effectiveness, or it can be a sign of more serious issues with the braking system that need to be addressed.