What is the term for the loss of braking effectiveness due to excessive heat?

The term describing the loss of braking effectiveness due to excessive heat is brake fade. This phenomenon occurs when the braking components, such as the brake pads and rotors, experience overheating due to repeated or prolonged application of the brakes. As the temperature rises, the materials can lose their ability to generate friction, resulting in a significantly reduced braking performance. This can lead to a dangerous situation where the driver may not be able to stop the vehicle effectively.

Understanding brake fade is essential for maintaining vehicle safety, especially in performance situations where braking systems are subjected to high demands, such as during mountain driving or on racetracks. Recognizing the indicators of brake fade can help drivers take necessary precautions, such as allowing brakes to cool or using lower gears to control speed without excessive brake usage.