What is the main cause of brake fade?

The main cause of brake fade is the overheating of brake components. When brakes are applied, friction is generated to create the stopping power needed to slow down or stop a vehicle. This heat is typically dissipated through the brake system. However, if the brakes are used excessively or if they are not cooled adequately, the temperature of the brake components can rise significantly.

As the brake components, such as the brake pads and rotors, become excessively hot, their effectiveness can decrease. This results in a condition known as brake fade, where the brakes are less responsive and the stopping distance can increase. Factors contributing to this overheating may include prolonged braking, such as during long downhill descents or aggressive driving habits.

Other options do not directly lead to brake fade. Worn-out tires might impact overall traction but do not cause brake components to lose effectiveness due to heat. Dirty brake pads could affect braking performance but aren't a primary cause of fade, as they would not create excess heat on their own. Insufficient brake fluid might lead to brake failure, but it doesn't induce the heat that causes brake fade. Thus, overheating is the crucial factor that defines this phenomenon.