Brake disc overheating: the most common symptoms

Signs of overheating

Overheating brake discs can have serious safety consequences. Here are the signs to watch out for.

Common symptoms

• Vibrations when braking: The steering wheel or pedal shakes during braking.
• Smoke: Smoke is coming from the wheels.
• Burning smell: A pungent smell near the wheels.
• Discolouration of the discs: The discs take on a bluish tint.

Normal temperatures

In normal driving, brake discs reach 200-300°C. In spirited driving or on long descents, they can reach 400-500°C. Beyond that, "fading" (loss of braking efficiency) appears.

Causes of overheating

1. Repeated braking on downhill stretches
2. Excessive spirited driving
3. Poor-quality brake pads
4. Seized callipers
5. Handbrake not fully released

Solutions

To prevent overheating:

• Use engine braking on descents
• Allow the brakes to cool down after intensive use
• Choose brake pads suited to your driving style
• Check the condition of the braking system regularly