What could cause your brakes to fade?

The fading of brakes is primarily caused by excessive use of service brakes leading to heat buildup. When brakes are applied, they generate friction, which in turn produces heat. If brakes are used heavily over a short period—such as during steep descents or aggressive driving—the temperature can rise significantly. As the temperature increases, the efficiency of the brake system can deteriorate. This phenomenon, known as brake fade, reduces the braking force, making it feel as if the brakes are not responding effectively when pressed.

In contrast to this, options regarding the parking brake or inadequate connection with brake fluid deal with different aspects of brake function and do not directly cause the heat-related issue associated with brake fading. While temperature fluctuations can impact vehicle performance, they do not directly correlate with brake fade in the same manner as the excessive use of the service brakes. Understanding this helps in managing brake application to prevent overheating and ensures safe driving practices.