Every driver will experience brake failure at least once in their years of driving. The reaction at that moment is to calmly bring the car to a halt. Because brake failure can occur for various reasons, every driver must know some of these common causes and watch out for them.
Some of the common causes of brake failure include:
Worn brake pads or shoes
Over time, brake pads or shoes wear down, reducing their ability to generate friction and slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
Brake fluid leaks
If there is a leak in the brake system, it can cause a loss of hydraulic pressure, leading to failure. Leaks can occur due to damaged brake lines or seals caused by wear and tear, corrosion, or impact damage.
Malfunctioning brake master cylinder
The brake master cylinder converts the force exerted on the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure that is transmitted to the brakes. If the master cylinder is not functioning correctly, the brake system will not receive the necessary force to stop the vehicle.
Faulty brake calipers
The brake calipers hold the brake pads in place and apply pressure to the rotors to stop the vehicle. If the calipers are damaged, they will not apply enough pressure to the rotors.
Contaminated brake fluid
Brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture or other foreign substances. This reduces its ability to transmit hydraulic pressure and causes brake failure.
Overheating brakes
Brakes can overheat due to excessive use or driving conditions that generate high heat levels. An example of this is steep downhill slopes. Overheated brakes cause brake fade or loss of stopping power.
Drivers must regularly inspect and maintain their vehicle’s braking system. This ensures it is functioning properly and addresses any issues that could cause brake failure.
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