As the temperatures rise and you set off on those summer journeys, your vehicle can experience all kinds of issues. One of the most important components to keep in check is your braking system. While most drivers know that cold and wet conditions can affect braking, hot weather can also take its toll.
Here’s how heat can impact braking performance and what you can do to protect your brakes and ensure you stay safe on the road this summer.
Brake fade
During warm weather, especially on long drives, in stop-start traffic, or during downhill braking, your brake system can overheat. This can lead to what’s known as brake fade, where the braking system becomes less effective as it gets hotter.
Brake fade happens when:
- The brake pads and brake discs get too hot to maintain proper friction
- Brake fluid heats up and loses its effectiveness
- The overall braking distance increases
This means you might have to press the pedal harder or longer to slow down, which is especially risky during emergency stops or on steep descents.
Boiling brake fluid
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. In high temperatures, moisture in the system can boil, leading to a spongy brake pedal or reduced responsiveness. Old or low-quality brake fluid is more likely to boil under heat stress, so regular checks and replacements are key, especially before long summer drives.
Increased wear on brake pads and discs
Higher temperatures can accelerate the wear of brake components. The heat can cause glazing on the pads (a shiny, hardened surface), reducing friction and effectiveness. If you notice squeaking or decreased performance, it might be time to check your brake pads and brake discs.
Heavy loads and towing in hot weather
Towing a trailer or loading up for a summer road trip adds extra weight, which puts more pressure on your braking system. Combined with heat, this can lead to quicker fade or wear. If you’re planning a trip with a full car or towing, it’s wise to check your brakes beforehand.
How to look after your brakes in hot weather
Check brake fluid
Brake fluid plays a vital role in the performance of your braking system. It transfers the force from your foot on the pedal to the brake components at each wheel.
Check your brake fluid level regularly (you can usually see it through the reservoir in your engine bay) and look out for dark or dirty fluid, which may indicate it’s time for a change. If in doubt, pop into Halfords for a brake fluid change.
Book a free brake check
Noticing squealing, grinding noises, or that your car takes longer to stop? These are all signs your brakes may need attention.
Book a free brake check at your local Halfords garage. Our trained technicians will inspect your brake pads, discs and other components to make sure everything’s working as it should. Catching issues early helps prevent more expensive repairs down the road.
Avoid riding the brakes
When driving downhill, it’s tempting to keep your foot lightly on the brake pedal, but this constant contact can overheat the brakes and reduce their effectiveness.
Plan for cooling
On long summer drives, your brakes can work hard if you find yourself in heavy stop/start traffic or having to stop suddenly during high speeds. Give your brakes a breather by taking short breaks during your journey. Not only does this allow the braking components to cool down, but it also helps reduce driver fatigue and keeps everyone refreshed.
Upgrade your brake components
If you do a lot of towing, driving in hilly areas, or performance driving, your standard brakes might not be up to the task in high heat.
Consider upgrading to performance brake pads, slotted discs, or high-temperature brake fluid. These are designed to handle more stress and deliver consistent braking even in tough summer conditions. Halfords can help recommend and fit the right upgrade for your vehicle.
Halfords are here to help
Whether you need a quick brake check, brake fluid top-up, or a full inspection, our experts are here to help. Book in at your local Halfords garage and enjoy every summer journey with peace of mind.
