What is a common sign of brake fade?

The correct answer highlights that a common sign of brake fade is the brakes becoming less responsive. Brake fade occurs when the brakes overheat due to prolonged use, typically during heavy braking situations. This overheating can lead to a loss of the friction necessary for effective braking. As the brake components heat up, they may not engage with the brake surface as effectively, causing a reduction in responsiveness.

When this happens, drivers may notice a lag between applying the brake and the actual response of the vehicle, which can be a significant safety concern. Addressing this issue is crucial, as it may require letting the brakes cool down or even using engine braking techniques to reduce the workload on the brake system. Understanding brake fade is vital for ensuring safe driving practices, especially in heavy-load and mountainous driving conditions where brakes are used more frequently.