Excessive heat in the brakes can result in what issue?

Excessive heat in the brakes is a serious issue because it can lead to the brakes becoming ineffective or failing altogether. When brakes overheat, it can cause the brake fluid to boil, reducing its ability to transmit the force needed to engage the brakes. This can lead to a phenomenon known as brake fade, where the effectiveness of the brakes diminishes significantly. As the temperature rises, the materials that make up the brake system, including the pads and rotors, can also degrade, leading to complete brake failure if the temperatures exceed safe limits. Hence, understanding the impact of excessive heat on braking systems is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance.