Revision question · Braking systems

'Brake fade' is a loss of effectiveness of the brakes when they overheat. When would 'brake fade' be most likely to happen?

Revision material from the imported DVSA bank includes source-checked Lanekind learning corrections. These corrections are not newly issued official examination questions, and practice does not reproduce a live test paper.

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On a long journey

On a long downhill gradient

On the approach to hazards

On a long uphill gradient

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On a long downhill gradientThis was the right answer

Continuous use of the brakes will cause them to overheat, and in extreme cases they'll become ineffective. When you're going downhill, the momentum of your vehicle will cause you to gather speed very quickly. Use the endurance brake (retarder) and stay in a low gear to reduce the need to use the brakes.

Reviewed reading for this question

Save the service brakes on a long descentReviewed guidance summary · These test brake fade’s heat cause, downhill risk, suitable gearing, retarder purpose and reduced friction-lining wear; air loss and worn linings are different faults.

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