What is a common effect of brake fade on a vehicle's performance?

Brake fade is a phenomenon that occurs when the braking system becomes less effective due to overheating. This typically happens after prolonged or repeated use of the brakes, such as during emergency response situations where constant braking is required. When brake fade occurs, the brakes lose their ability to generate the necessary friction to stop the vehicle effectively. As a result, the stopping distances increase significantly, meaning the driver will need more time and distance to bring the vehicle to a halt.

This is particularly critical for emergency responders, who must maintain control and respond quickly to situations. Understanding brake fade allows drivers to anticipate potential issues and adjust their driving techniques accordingly, such as by allowing time for brakes to cool or using engine braking techniques to reduce reliance on the brakes. The focus on longer stopping distances reinforces the importance of brake maintenance and awareness of vehicle dynamics under stress.