What are Glazed Brakes?
Glazed brakes, more specifically, glazed brake pads, represent a common problem stemming from brake overheating. Even brief periods of excessive heat can cause this issue.
Understanding Brake Pad Glazing
Glazing occurs when the brake pads are heated to a point where the friction material inside hardens and smooths. This hardening and smoothing process is essentially a crystallization of the brake pad material due to excessive heat. This results in a significant reduction in the braking performance of your vehicle.
Causes of Glazed Brake Pads
The primary cause of glazed brake pads is overheating of the brake pad friction material. This overheating leads to the crystallization of the friction material, effectively changing its surface properties and reducing its ability to grip the rotor.
Symptoms of Glazed Brakes
Several symptoms indicate that your brake pads might be glazed. These include:
- Reduced braking performance: You’ll notice a longer stopping distance.
- A soft or spongy brake pedal: The pedal might feel less responsive or require more pressure.
- Vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal: This can indicate uneven glazing across the pad.
- A high-pitched squealing or grinding noise: This can occur as the glazed surface interacts with the rotor.
Visual Identification of Glazed Brakes
A clear indication of glazed brake pads is their shiny appearance. The surface of the pad that contacts the brake rotor will have a glassy, smooth sheen. This is in stark contrast to the rough, textured surface of a healthy brake pad.
The Chemical Process
The high temperatures involved in brake pad glazing cause the binders and other chemicals within the brake pad material to leech out. This leaves behind a hardened, smooth surface that is far less effective at stopping your vehicle.
Consequences of Ignoring Glazed Brakes
Ignoring glazed brakes is dangerous. The reduced braking power significantly increases your stopping distance, putting you and others at risk. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure your safety.
Remedying Glazed Brakes
While some minor glazing may be remedied by aggressive braking to roughen the surface, severe glazing typically requires replacing the brake pads. Consulting a qualified mechanic is recommended to properly diagnose the issue and determine the best course of action.
