How Fall Weather Impacts Braking Distance: A Newhub Guide to Brake Care
Fall is a beautiful time of year, with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and pumpkin spice everything. But amidst the scenic drives and cozy vibes, it’s easy to overlook the impact fall weather has on your car, especially your brakes. Shorter days, wetter roads, and falling debris can significantly increase your braking distance, putting you and other drivers at risk. At Newhub, we want to ensure you stay safe on the road, so let’s dive into how fall weather affects your brakes and what you can do about it.
The Slippery Slope: Wet Roads and Brake Performance
Rain, a frequent visitor in the fall, creates a thin film of water between your tires and the road surface. This reduces friction and makes it harder for your tires to grip, extending your braking distance. Imagine trying to stop on ice – the principle is the same, just less extreme. Even a light drizzle can have a noticeable effect. Be extra cautious after the first rain of the season, as it washes accumulated oil and debris from the road, making it even slicker.
Leaf Litter: More Than Just Pretty Scenery
Those colorful leaves that blanket the roads may look picturesque, but they can be treacherous under your tires. Leaves, especially when wet, become incredibly slippery. Driving over a pile of wet leaves is akin to driving on ice – your tires can lose traction, making braking and steering unpredictable. Furthermore, leaves can obscure potholes and other road hazards, forcing you to brake suddenly and potentially damaging your suspension along with your brakes.
Temperature Drops and Tire Pressure
As temperatures dip in the fall, your tire pressure decreases. This is a natural phenomenon – for every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, your tire pressure can decrease by 1 PSI. Underinflated tires increase the contact patch with the road, which can lead to increased friction and heat buildup, affecting brake performance. They also decrease fuel efficiency and make your vehicle less responsive. Always check your tire pressure regularly, especially in the fall, and inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door or in your owner’s manual).
Daylight Savings Time: Adjusting to Shorter Days
The transition to daylight savings time can disrupt your routine and lead to decreased alertness, especially during evening commutes. Reduced visibility combined with driver fatigue increases the risk of accidents. Make sure your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are in good working order to improve visibility for yourself and other drivers. Giving yourself extra following distance and adjusting your speed to the prevailing conditions are also crucial.
Proactive Brake Care: Preparing for Fall’s Challenges
The best way to combat the impact of fall weather on your brakes is to be proactive with your maintenance. Here are some things you can do:
- Brake Inspection: Have your brakes inspected by a qualified technician, like those at Newhub, before the fall season begins. We’ll check your brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid to ensure everything is in good working order.
- Brake Fluid Flush: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to corrosion within the braking system. A brake fluid flush removes old, contaminated fluid and replaces it with fresh fluid, improving braking performance and extending the life of your brake components.
- Tire Check and Inflation: Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure. Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth for optimal grip in wet conditions. Consider using all-season tires for better performance in varying weather conditions.
- Adjust Your Driving Habits: Increase your following distance, reduce your speed, and be extra cautious when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Avoid sudden braking and steering maneuvers.
Stay Safe This Fall with Newhub
Fall weather presents unique challenges for your vehicle’s braking system. By understanding these challenges and taking proactive steps to maintain your brakes, you can ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. If you’re concerned about your brake performance or want to schedule a brake inspection, don’t hesitate to contact Newhub. We’re here to help you keep your car in top condition and enjoy a safe and scenic fall season!