Every time you step on the brakes, whether you’re stopping at a stop sign or going from one stoplight to the next in city traffic, your brakes get hot. The brake pads and rotors can usually easily get rid of the heat. But if the brake system is put under too much stress, they can get too hot.
Normally, the temperature of the brake pads and wheels is between 250°F and 300°F. But if the brake system is overheating, the temperature can rise to 600°F to 700°F. When the brakes get too hot, they can make it harder for the car to stop, which could put you in a dangerous position. Learn to spot the signs and reasons why your brakes are getting too hot.
What Are the Signs That Your Brakes Are Too Hot?
Pads that are soft or springy
When brakes get too hot, they often feel soft or squishy when you press down on the pedal. This is because as the brake fluid heats up, the water vapor that builds up in the tank turns into steam. This can cause too much heat to build up, which can make the brakes work less well.
Smell of smoke
If you use your brakes and smell something like burning carpet, it could mean that your brakes are getting too hot. If the brakes get too hot, they can become shiny and smooth, which means they might not be able to create enough friction to stop your car.
Noises of squealing
It’s possible for the smooth brake pads to make a squealing sound when they hit the rotors when they get too hot.
Less effectiveness
It’s possible for your brakes to stop working when they get too hot. It’s possible that your car stops taking longer or that you have to press down harder on the brake pedal to stop it.
Why Do Brakes Get So Hot?
Bad habits when driving
Most of the time, brakes get too hot when you ride the brakes, do hard stops, or do other aggressive stopping moves. Overheated brakes can also be caused by stopping a lot on hills or pulling or towing loads that are too big for your vehicle.
Broken brake pads
When metal parts rub against old brake pads, they can make too much heat because the friction material has been worn away.
Installation
If the brake pads or calipers are not fixed correctly, they may not touch properly, which can cause too much friction and heat buildup.
What Should I Do If My Brakes Get Too Hot?
If you notice any of the signs that your brakes are getting too hot, you need to slow down and find a place to stop. Once you have stopped your car safely, you can look at what’s going on. Wait 5 to 10 minutes for the brakes to cool down. After that, you might be able to keep going. It’s time to call for roadside assistance to get towed to a car repair shop so the problem can be fixed.
How to Keep Brakes From Getting Too Hot
Making sure your brakes work well is as easy as following a few simple steps.
- Do not use aggressive braking.
- Be careful not to slam on your brakes while you’re driving. Instead, start to stop earlier and press down lightly on the brake pedal. That’s right, stopping farther away will help the brakes stay cooler. It’s also possible to ease off on the gas before putting on the brakes.
- You can keep your brakes from overheating by driving carefully, leaving two car lengths between your car and the car in front of you, and using other safe stopping techniques.
Regular Maintenance
- Regularly check your brakes and don’t put off fixes that are suggested. An experienced auto mechanic should put good brake pads on your car.
- Do not overload the vehicle.
- If you tow or haul more than your vehicle can handle, it can put extra stress on the brakes and the vehicle itself. When you pull a trailer behind your car, you might want to get trailer brakes to protect the brakes on your car.
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
