Winter brake pad maintenance: countermeasures for reduced braking performance in low temperature environments

1. Effects of Low Temperatures on Brake Pads

• Reduced Friction Coefficient

In low-temperature environments, the friction material of brake pads may harden, resulting in a lower friction coefficient during initial braking (commonly known as "cold fade").

Symptoms: A stiff brake pedal and increased braking distance (10%-20% longer than at room temperature).

• Ice and Snow Adhesion

Ice and snow may accumulate between the brake disc and pad, forming an ice film that affects braking contact.

Symptoms: A slipping sensation during braking and uneven braking.

• Iced Brake Discs

After washing the car or in rainy or snowy conditions, ice may form on the brake disc surface, preventing the brake pads from engaging effectively.

Symptoms: Unusual brake squeals during starting, or even brief braking.

2. Winter Brake Pad Maintenance

Choose winter-appropriate brake pads

Recommended types:

Low-metal formula brake pads: More stable friction coefficient at low temperatures, suitable for daily driving.

Ceramic composite brake pads: Strong resistance to thermal fade, suitable for hybrid/electric vehicles with frequent braking.

Avoid using:

Competition-type high-metal brake pads (poor low-temperature performance, prone to unusual squeaking).

Regularly check the condition of your brake pads.

Inspection points:

Thickness: Replace immediately if the remaining thickness is less than 3mm.

Uniform wear: Unilateral wear may indicate caliper failure.

Unusual squeaking or cracking: Low-temperature embrittlement may cause material cracking.

Brake System Rust Prevention

Operational recommendations:

Clean the brake discs and calipers regularly to prevent salt corrosion (especially in areas using de-icing agents).

Use brake disc anti-rust spray.

Special treatment for icy and snowy weather

Countermeasures:

Avoid applying the parking brake when parking: Use gear braking instead (engage in gear in manual transmission, P in automatic transmission) to prevent the brake pads from freezing.

Lightly apply the brakes before starting: This will melt any thin ice that may have accumulated.

Avoid parking for extended periods: Moisture can easily cause brake disc rust, affecting braking.

3. Winter Driving Tips (Reducing Braking Load)

• Predictive Driving

Slow down in advance and avoid sudden braking (stopping distance on icy and snowy roads can double). Use engine traction to brake (downshift to slow down).

• Maintain a safe distance

Tire grip decreases in cold temperatures. It is recommended to increase the distance between vehicles by 50% compared to normal.

• Avoid prolonged braking

On long downhill slopes, alternate between braking and engine braking to prevent overheating and performance degradation of the brake pads.

4.  Emergency Procedures

Hard Brake Pedal/Brake Failure

Solution:

Remain calm and hold the steering wheel firmly.

Apply the brakes quickly and continuously (activate the ABS system).

Downshift gradually (manual transmission) or shift to a lower gear (automatic transmission, S/L).

Brake Squeaks or Vibrations

Possible Causes:

Ice or deformation of the brake disc.

Brake pad material hardened at low temperatures.

Solution:

Gently apply the brakes several times to melt the ice.

If the squeaking persists, check the brake disc for scratches.