When you’re driving down the road at speeds of 60 to 80 miles per hour, you are heavily dependent on working brakes to maintain your safety. Unfortunately, over the years, facts about braking systems have been altered to partial truths or complete falsities, which has made it more difficult to maintain this crucial component. Here are some myths you’ve probably heard and the facts behind them. 

Common Car Brake Myths Debunked 

1. Brake Pads Must Be Warm to Work

Some drivers believe that their brakes won’t produce enough friction to stop their vehicles if they have not been heated. Unless you are driving a sports car built for racing, this isn’t true. Standard brakes will work regardless if they are hot or cold. 

2. A Shiny Spot on a Rotor Indicates Warping

There are many reasons people give for warped rotors. In truth, many of these are misunderstandings about how disc brakes work. A shiny spot on a rotor, for instance, is the result of excessive runout, which is when the brake rotor deviates from its axial plane. This leads to wobble and wear at this particular spot. Rust and scale in the rotor hat are known to cause this problem, but it can be resolved by cleaning the part before reinstalling it on the used rotor. 

3. Soft Brakes Are Due to Overheated Pads

Mushy brakes are not the result of overheated pads. They are actually due to overheated brake fluid. The fluid boils in the calipers creating compressible air bubbles that make the pedal feel soft. This increases how far it must travel to stop the vehicle. This problem will eventually lead to a brake pad fade, which is the temporary reduction or complete loss of braking power. If this problem occurs while driving, repeatedly pump the pedal to get the brakes to work and pull over to let them cool off or call for roadside assistance.

If you don’t fully understand how car brake systems work, the knowledgeable team at AAW Auto Parts in Pasco, WA, can help. Since 1996, this family-owned auto parts store has helped drivers throughout the area with all of their car issues. Their long-term staff has over 100 years of combined experience and are able to locate the part you are looking for quickly. Call them today at (509) 547-6000 with any questions or concerns you might have, and visit their website to learn more about the product brands they carry.