Brake failure in a car is a serious issue that can lead to devastating accidents. Every year, hundreds of car crashes are caused by brake failure, many of which result in injury or even death. In most cases, these accidents could have been avoided if the driver had noticed early warning signs of brake trouble. To help you stay safe on the road, let’s look at the seven most common causes of brake failure in cars today.
1. Owner Neglect
The most common cause of brake failure is owner neglect. Like other vehicle components, brakes have a limited lifespan and require regular inspection and maintenance. Many brake pads and shoes are designed to last for a significant amount of time, but their longevity is often based on standard driving conditions. If you drive frequently in cities or neighbourhoods where you must stop and go often, your brake pads and shoes will wear out faster. Regularly inspecting your brakes for wear and tear is crucial for ensuring your vehicle’s stopping power.
2. Overheating Brake Pads
Excessive use can cause your brake pads to overheat, making them hard or brittle. When brake pads harden, their ability to grip the rotor disk diminishes, leading to longer stopping distances and reduced braking efficiency. If you find that your brakes are not responding as quickly as they should, it may be due to overheating brake pads. To prevent this, avoid harsh braking and give your brakes time to cool down when driving in stop-and-go traffic or on long downhill stretches.
3. Damaged Rotor Disks
Brake pads work by pressing against the rotor disk to stop your vehicle. If the rotor disks become damaged or scored, the brake pads will wear down faster, reducing their effectiveness. Damaged rotors can also make it harder to stop the car. To maintain safe braking, have your rotor disks checked regularly, and if necessary, ask a mechanic to “turn” or smooth them when replacing your brake pads.
4. Leaking Hydraulic Fluid
Your car’s braking system relies on hydraulic fluid to transfer pressure from the brake pedal to the brake pads. If there is a leak in the hydraulic system, your brakes may lose power, making it difficult to stop the car. Leaks can occur from the engine or brake lines and often go unnoticed until braking performance is seriously compromised. If you suspect a brake fluid leak, get your car inspected immediately to prevent a complete brake failure.
5. Driving Through Mud or Water
Driving through deep water or mud can reduce the friction between your brake pads and rotor disks, effectively “lubricating” them and making stopping more difficult. If your car’s wheels become partially submerged in water, gently tap the brakes to help remove excess water and restore proper braking function. As always, use caution when driving in wet conditions, as the loss of brake efficiency can be especially dangerous in these situations.
6. Loss of Hydraulic Brake Fluid Pressure
A sudden loss of hydraulic brake fluid pressure will drastically reduce your car’s ability to stop. If your brakes suddenly feel weak or unresponsive, it may indicate a problem with the brake fluid system. In an emergency, tapping the brakes several times may help distribute brake fluid through the system and provide enough pressure to stop the car. However, this is a temporary solution, and you should have your brakes checked by a certified specialist as soon as possible. Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is topped up, and the system is free of leaks.
7. Overloading Your Vehicle
Every vehicle has a recommended load capacity set by the manufacturer. Overloading your car beyond this limit can put additional strain on the braking system, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing brake failure. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the correct loading recommendations and ensure that your car is not carrying more weight than it can safely handle.
Conclusion
Brake failure is a serious issue that can lead to accidents if not addressed in time. Regular brake maintenance, such as inspecting brake pads, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper rotor condition, can help prevent brake failure. Whether it’s due to neglect, overheating, or hydraulic fluid issues, recognising the warning signs early can save lives. Stay informed and take action when necessary to keep your vehicle’s braking system in top shape, ensuring a safer driving experience for you and everyone on the road.
