Why do brake fail?
The car braking system is made of several parts like pads/shoes, the hydraulic lines, the air lines etc. When any of this parts is faulty or malfunctioning it can result in the failure of the whole system. To avoid this, proper maintenance of these parts must be ensured and done periodically. Always tell your mechanic to help watch out for these parts while servicing the car to avoid any fatal accident.

OVERHEATED BRAKE PADS

Squealing brakes is an indication of a problem with the brake system. Usually, a squealing noise is an indication that your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced. Other causes can be overheated brake pads or rotors and sometimes rust can get impregnated on the brake lining material and cause grumbling or squeaking noises.

FLUID LEAKAGE

The major reason why brakes fail is as a result of fluid leakage, if there is a slow leak in the system it will effect the brake master cylinder by allowing air into the system creating a low peddle and eventual brake operation failure. If a large brake fluid leak is present, fluid escapes, leading to a major brake failure on one half of the system (front or rear). A master cylinder has a built in safety device, two separate hydraulic systems a primary and secondary, separating front and rear brake operation in case of front or rear brake operation failure, one system will still be present.

BRAKE FADE

We need to take care of brake fade too. It is another type of brake failure caused by overheating of the brake pads. It is common on poor material brake pads.

If you have a bad brake booster then it automatically follows that you’ll have problems with your brake pedal as well. A low brake pedal is usually a telltale sign that your brake power boost unit has gone badly. Most of today’s brake boosters are vacuum controlled. To check your brake booster you may need a vacuum measurement gadget that will be connected to the brake booster.

RUST

Attached to the cylinder master are the brake lines. The steel brake tubing is transcended to all the wheel of your vehicle. Rusts are the worst enemies of the brake lines. To avoid these and leaks, regularly inspect the linings. Replacement is the best course of action in case of damages.

DEFECTIVE HOSES

Running from the brake lines to the brake calipers as well as to the wheel cylinders are rubber brake hoses. It is advised to avoid their exposure to dirt, road grime, salt and other elements. These can make the rubber to become brittle and can produce crack. This will then lead to a failure in the brake system.

MOISTURE

As well, it is worth noting that brake failure can be caused by water in the brake fluid. When the fluid gets hot, the water will vaporize. This steam can be compressed unlike the water. However, instead of the braking effort being transmitted to the wheels, it is dissipated and the car will fail to brake. So it is important not to forget changing the brake fluid at given interval.