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How heat affects your brake performance

Feeling the Heat? How Summer Driving Affects Your Brake Performance

Summer is here, and with it comes sunshine, road trips, and… heat. While you’re enjoying the warmer weather, your car is working harder than ever, especially your braking system. High temperatures can significantly impact brake performance, potentially leading to longer stopping distances and even brake failure. At NewHub, we want to help you stay safe on the road. So, let’s dive into how heat affects your brakes and what you can do about it.

The Science Behind the Sizzle: How Heat Impacts Your Brakes

Your braking system relies on friction to slow your vehicle down. When you press the brake pedal, brake pads are pressed against rotors (or drums), creating friction that converts kinetic energy into heat. This heat is normally dissipated into the air. However, during hot weather, the surrounding ambient temperature is already high, making it more difficult for your brakes to cool down effectively. This leads to a few key issues:

  • Brake Fade: This is perhaps the most concerning effect of heat. Brake fade occurs when the friction between the brake pads and rotors decreases significantly due to overheating. The brake pads essentially glaze over, losing their grip. This results in a spongy brake pedal and a dramatic increase in stopping distance.
  • Brake Fluid Issues: Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transmits the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the calipers. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, lowering its boiling point. When the brakes get hot, this moisture can boil, creating air bubbles in the system. These air bubbles are compressible, meaning you’ll need to press the brake pedal further to achieve the same braking force. In extreme cases, this can lead to brake failure.
  • Warped Rotors: Extreme heat, especially combined with rapid cooling (like driving through a puddle after heavy braking), can warp your brake rotors. Warped rotors cause vibrations when braking and can significantly reduce braking efficiency.
  • Increased Wear and Tear: High temperatures accelerate the wear and tear on all brake components, including pads, rotors, calipers, and hoses. This means you may need to replace these parts more frequently than you would in cooler climates.

Signs Your Brakes Are Overheating

Knowing the warning signs of brake overheating is crucial for preventing accidents. Here are a few things to watch out for:

  • Spongy Brake Pedal: As mentioned earlier, this indicates that there may be air bubbles in the brake lines, often due to brake fluid boiling.
  • Increased Stopping Distance: If it takes longer than usual to stop your vehicle, your brakes may be fading.
  • Vibrations When Braking: This could be a sign of warped rotors.
  • Burning Smell: A distinct burning smell coming from your wheels is a clear indication that your brakes are overheating.
  • Squealing or Grinding Noises: These noises can indicate worn brake pads, which are more susceptible to overheating.

Tips for Keeping Your Brakes Cool Under Pressure

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to mitigate the effects of heat on your brakes:

  • Regular Brake Inspections: Schedule regular brake inspections with NewHub to ensure your brake system is in good working order. Our technicians can check your brake pads, rotors, brake fluid, and hoses for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Use Quality Brake Pads: Invest in high-quality brake pads designed to withstand high temperatures. Ceramic brake pads, for example, are known for their excellent heat resistance.
  • Flush Your Brake Fluid Regularly: Have your brake fluid flushed and replaced every two years or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. This will help remove moisture and maintain its boiling point.
  • Avoid Riding the Brakes: Riding the brakes, especially on long downhills, generates excessive heat. Use engine braking (downshifting) to help control your speed.
  • Give Your Brakes a Break: If you’re driving in hot weather and notice signs of brake fade, pull over and allow your brakes to cool down before continuing.
  • Consider Upgrading Your Brakes: If you frequently drive in hot conditions or tow heavy loads, consider upgrading to a performance brake system with larger rotors and more efficient cooling.

NewHub is Here to Help You Keep Your Brakes in Top Shape

Don’t let the summer heat compromise your safety. At NewHub, we’re committed to providing top-notch brake service and repair. Whether you need a brake inspection, brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush, or rotor resurfacing, our experienced technicians have you covered. Schedule your appointment today and drive with confidence knowing your brakes are ready for anything.

Stay safe and enjoy the road!