Brakes Fade (Fail To Hold)

Fade is caused by loss of friction from excess heat. Improperly compounded linings will fade to a greater degree than quality linings. Very few linings are entirely free of fade. If drums are turned too thin, even the best lining will fade because thin drums expand more when hot, which reduces lining contact excessively. Fade may also be caused by lining soaked with fluid or oil. Inferior fluid will boil in the wheel cylinders, causing fade. Driver abuse, such as riding the brake pedal, or holding the brakes on for long periods on a downhill run, will cause fade.