What is typically the cause of brake fade?

Brake fade occurs primarily due to overheating of the braking system, which is typically caused by hot brakes. When brakes are applied repeatedly or with excessive force over a period of time, the heat generated can increase the temperature of the brake components beyond their effective operating range. This rise in temperature can lead to reduced friction between the brake pads and the brake drum or rotor, ultimately resulting in diminished braking power.

In contrast, cooled brakes would generally function better, as they would maintain the proper temperature for effective braking. Debris on the brake pads could cause noises or uneven wear but is not the primary mechanism behind brake fade. Similarly, excessive moisture can affect braking performance but is not the leading cause of fade, which is fundamentally tied to heat buildup in the braking system.