Michigan CDL - Air Brakes Practice Exam

What happens during "brake fade" as a result of overheated brakes?

1. The brakes may lose effectiveness and stop working

2. The vehicle will accelerate uncontrollably

3. The brake fluid will evaporate

4. The tires will lose traction

The correct answer is: The brakes may lose effectiveness and stop working

Brake fade occurs when brakes become overheated, often due to prolonged use, such as during downhill driving or repeated stopping in heavy traffic. This overheating can lead to a loss of effectiveness in the braking system. When the brakes fade, they may require more pressure on the pedal to produce the same amount of stopping power, and in severe cases, they may fail to respond altogether. The correct understanding of brake fade is critical for maintaining control of the vehicle, especially in emergencies or challenging driving conditions. While the other options may describe certain scenarios related to vehicle operation, they do not address the specific outcome of brake fade. The loss of braking power is a direct consequence of overheating, making the ability to recognize and respond to brake fade essential for safe driving.