What does the term "brake fade" refer to?

Brake fade refers to a reduction in braking performance that occurs when the brake components, typically the pads and rotors, become overheated. This overheating can result in a significant loss of friction, making the brakes less effective. As a consequence, the driver may notice that pressing the brake pedal does not produce the expected stopping force, leading to a longer stopping distance or a feeling of sponginess in the brake pedal.

This phenomenon often occurs during prolonged braking, such as when descending a long hill or during aggressive driving that requires frequent hard braking. Proper understanding of brake fade is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance, as drivers need to recognize the signs of this condition to avoid potential accidents.