Why Are My Brakes Overheating?

new brake disc on car Brakes are designed to stop a vehicle that typically weighs around 4,000 pounds. However, the friction generated during braking can cause overheating, which may lead to serious damage. Understanding how this happens and what you can do to prevent it is essential for safe driving.

How Your Brakes Work

Most modern vehicles use disc brakes, which consist of a solid or ventilated rotor located near each wheel. These rotors are clamped by brake pads, which are pushed against them by pistons. This action creates the necessary friction to slow or stop the vehicle. Brake fluid plays a crucial role in this system by transferring the force from the brake pedal to the calipers, allowing the pads to press against the rotors effectively.

While this system is highly effective, it also generates a lot of heat. The rotors and pads absorb most of this heat, but if the system isnâ€™t functioning properly, the heat can build up quickly and lead to performance issues or even failure.

Common Causes of Brake Overheating

Overheating can occur due to several factors, including:

Worn or damaged brake pads. As they wear down, they may not grip the rotor properly, leading to increased heat and potential damage.
Improper alignment. If the brake components aren't aligned correctly, uneven pressure can cause excessive wear and heat buildup.
Failure to bed in new pads. New brake pads need time to settle with the rotors. Skipping this process can result in poor performance and overheating.
Inadequate cooling. Constantly hot brakes can cause brake fluid to boil, reducing its effectiveness and creating air bubbles that make the brake pedal feel spongy.
Moisture in the brake fluid. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time, lowering its boiling point and increasing the risk of overheating.
Glazed or melted pads. Excessive heat can cause the material on the pads to melt, reducing friction and making the brakes less effective.

Signs That Your Brakes Are Overheating

If your brakes are overheating, you might notice one or more of these symptoms:

The brake warning light illuminates on your dashboard.
You hear a squeaking or grinding noise when you apply the brakes â€” often a sign of glazed or worn pads.
Your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, indicating that the fluid may have absorbed water or developed air bubbles.
You smell burning or smoke coming from under the hood when you brake â€” this could mean parts are sticking or overheating.

What to Do When Brakes Overheat

If you suspect your brakes are overheating, itâ€™s important to act quickly. Hereâ€™s what you should do:

Immediately pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine.
Try to roll the vehicle to a gradual stop if possible.
Once stopped, engage the parking brake to help the brake components cool down.
Avoid driving until the brakes have fully cooled. If you must drive, do so carefully and schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible.
If the vehicle doesnâ€™t seem safe to move, consider having it towed to a repair shop.

Prevention Tips for Future Brake Issues

To reduce the risk of overheating, follow these best practices:

Apply the brakes gradually and avoid sudden, heavy stops.
When descending hills, use engine braking instead of relying solely on the brakes.
Regularly check and replace brake fluid according to the manufacturerâ€™s recommendations.
Have your brake system inspected periodically, especially if you drive in hilly areas or frequently use your brakes.

Brake safety is critical for your well-being and the safety of others on the road. If you're concerned about your car's braking system, donâ€™t wait â€” contact DaSilvaâ€™s Auto Body today for a thorough inspection and expert service. Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your brakes in top condition.

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