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CanadaCan Brakes Overheat?
From pulling up to a stop sign to moving from stoplight to stoplight in city traffic, your brakes produce heat every time you hit the brake pedal. Most times the brake pads and rotors can safely dissipate the heat, however if too much stress is placed on the brake system, they can overheat.
Under normal conditions, brake pads and rotors are around 250°F to 300°F, but if the brake system is experiencing overheating, the temperature can soar to highs of 600°F to 700°F. If the brakes generate excessive heat, it can reduce the vehicle’s stopping power, leaving you in a potentially dangerous situation. Learn to recognize the signs and causes of overheated brakes.
What Are the Signs of Overheated Brakes?
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
A common symptom of overheated brakes is a soft or spongy feeling when pressing down on the brake pedal. This is caused by the water vapor that collects in the brake fluid reservoir turning into steam as the brake fluid heats up. This can lead to excessive heat building up that can reduce the performance of the brakes.
Smoke Smell
If you smell an odor like burning carpet while using your brakes, this can be a sign that your brakes are overheating. When the brakes overheat, they become glazed and smoothed out and might not be capable of generating the friction needed to bring your vehicle to a stop.
Squealing Noises
As the brake pads glaze over during an overheating episode, the smooth brake pads can make a squealing noise when they meet the rotors.
Reduced Performance
As your brakes overheat, they can lose their stopping abilities. You may find that your vehicle takes longer to come to a stop or that you must press harder on the brake pedal to stop your car.
What Causes Brakes to Overheat?
Poor Driving Habits
Riding the brakes, hard stops and other aggressive braking maneuvers are the most common cause of overheated brakes. Frequently braking on hills or towing/hauling loads that are too heavy for your vehicle can also contribute to overheated brakes.
Worn Brake Pads
Because worn brake pads have lost a lot of the friction material, they can generate excess heat when metal components rub against each other.
Improper Installation
If the brake pads or calipers are improperly mounted, it can cause abnormal contact that can lead to excessive friction and overheating.
What Should I Do if My Brakes Overheat?
If you recognize any the signs of overheating brakes, it is crucial that you reduce your vehicle’s speed and find a spot to pull over. Once you have safely brought your vehicle to a stop, you can assess the situation. It may be possible to continue your journey if you wait for about 5-10 minutes for the brakes to cool off. If they overheat again, it’s time to call for roadside assistance to get towed to an auto service shop to get the issue looked at.
How to Avoid Overheated Brakes
There are some simple steps you can take to keep your brakes in proper working condition.
Avoid Aggressive Braking
Don’t slam on your brakes while driving; start to brake sooner and press down modestly on the brake pedal. Coming to a stop over a longer distance will help keep the brakes cooler. Additionally, you can let up on the accelerator before applying the brakes.
Driving cautiously, keeping two car lengths between your car and the vehicle ahead of you, and employing other safe braking practices also goes a long way in helping you avoid having your brakes overheat.
Keep Up on Brake Maintenance
Have your brakes inspected on a regular basis and don’t put off recommended repairs. Have quality brake pads installed on your vehicle by a trusted auto technician.
Don’t Overload Vehicle
Exceeding the towing or haul rating of your vehicle can put extra strain on your vehicle and the brake system. If you tow a trailer, consider having trailer brakes which can help reduce wear and tear on the tow vehicle’s brakes.
Learn more about quality brakes, find your car part, or find where to buy your auto part today.
The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. Tenneco will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.