Final answer:
Brake fade occurs due to mechanical overheating, leading to a decrease in braking effectiveness. Proper brake maintenance and quality brake components are essential to prevent brake fade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is option mechanical overheating. Brake fade, also known as brake failure, occurs when the brakes lose their effectiveness due to excessive heat generation.
When brakes are applied repeatedly, such as during long downhill descents or continuous heavy braking, the friction between the brake pads and the rotors generates heat. If this heat is not dissipated properly, it can cause the brake fluid to boil, leading to gas formation and a decrease in braking power.
During brake fade, the brake pads may lose contact with the rotors, resulting in reduced friction and poor braking performance. This can be dangerous as it increases the stopping distance and compromises the safety of the vehicle.
To prevent brake fade, it is essential to ensure proper brake maintenance, including checking for worn-out brake pads, ensuring adequate brake fluid levels, and using quality brake components that can efficiently dissipate heat.