26/07/2019
While the sight of a car performing a spectacular burnout at a car show might be thrilling, the reality for your vehicle's components, particularly the brake pads, is far less glamorous. Many car enthusiasts are aware that burnouts are rough on tyres, but the significant impact on the braking system is often overlooked. This article delves into the detrimental effects of burnouts on brake pads, explaining why they wear down faster and the potential consequences for your car's safety and your wallet.
Understanding Brake Pad Function
Before we explore the damage, it's essential to understand what brake pads do. Brake pads are friction material that presses against the brake disc (rotor) when you apply the brakes. This friction converts the kinetic energy of your moving car into heat, slowing it down. Over time, this friction naturally causes the brake pad material to wear away. This is a normal process, and brake pads are designed to be replaced periodically as part of routine vehicle maintenance.
The Burnout: An Extreme Test
A burnout involves holding the vehicle stationary while spinning the drive wheels. This is typically achieved by applying the brakes firmly while simultaneously accelerating. The intense friction generated between the spinning tyres and the road surface creates smoke and heat. While the primary focus is on the tyres, the braking system, specifically the brake pads, endures immense stress during this manoeuvre.
How Burnouts Accelerate Brake Pad Wear
The act of performing a burnout places an extraordinary and prolonged load on the brake pads. Here's a breakdown of the damaging mechanisms:
Excessive Heat Generation
When you press the brake pedal during a burnout, you're forcing the brake pads against the rotors. Simultaneously, the engine is working hard, and the tyres are spinning, generating immense heat. This combined heat from the engine, tyres, and the friction of the braking system itself causes the brake pad material to overheat significantly. Overheating can lead to:
- Material Degradation: The friction material in the brake pads can bake, harden, and even glaze over. This glazing reduces the pad's ability to create friction effectively.
- Reduced Friction Coefficient: As the pads degrade, their effectiveness in slowing the car diminishes.
- Potential for Cracking: Rapid and extreme temperature fluctuations can cause micro-cracks to form within the brake pad material.
Increased Friction and Pressure
During a burnout, the driver is essentially holding the car stationary against the force of the engine by applying the brakes. This means the brake pads are under constant, high pressure for an extended period. This sustained pressure, combined with the spinning rotors, grinds away at the pad material at an accelerated rate. Think of it like trying to stop a spinning top by holding it tightly with your hands – your hands (the brake pads) will get hot and wear down quickly.
Impact on Other Braking Components
The excessive heat generated during a burnout doesn't just affect the brake pads. It also transfers to the brake rotors. Extreme heat can cause rotors to warp, leading to a spongy brake pedal and reduced braking efficiency. This warping can necessitate the replacement of the rotors, adding to the cost of repairs.
Consequences of Worn Brake Pads
Accelerated brake pad wear from burnouts can lead to several serious consequences:
| Symptom | Explanation | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced Stopping Power | Worn brake pads have less material to create friction, meaning your car takes longer to stop. | High |
| Spongy Brake Pedal | This can be a sign of air in the brake lines or warped rotors, both of which can be exacerbated by heat. | Medium |
| Brake Fade | Overheated brake pads can lose their effectiveness temporarily, a dangerous phenomenon known as brake fade. | Very High |
| Grinding Noises | When brake pads wear down to their metal backing plate, you'll hear a loud grinding noise. This indicates severe damage to both the pads and the rotors. | Critical |
| Increased Braking Distance | Ultimately, worn brake pads directly translate to longer distances required to bring your vehicle to a halt. | High |
Damage to Your Driveway
While the focus is on the car, it's worth noting the damage burnouts can inflict on your property. Gravel driveways can be pelted with stones, and asphalt driveways are particularly vulnerable. The intense heat from the spinning tyres can melt and groove the asphalt, often requiring costly repairs or even a complete resurfacing of the driveway. Concrete driveways are more resilient but can still suffer from rubber residue that is difficult to remove.
Repairing or Replacing Brake Pads
If you suspect your brake pads have been damaged by burnouts or general wear and tear, it's crucial to have them inspected by a qualified mechanic. The process typically involves:
- Inspection: A mechanic will visually inspect the brake pads for thickness, glazing, and any signs of damage like cracks. They will also check the brake rotors.
- Replacement: If the pads are worn below the recommended minimum thickness (usually around 3mm), they will need to be replaced. It's often recommended to replace brake pads in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even braking.
- Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: If the rotors are warped, heavily grooved, or show signs of excessive heat damage, they may need to be resurfaced (machined to a smooth finish) or replaced entirely.
Cost Consideration: Replacing brake pads can range from £100 to £300 per axle, depending on the vehicle and the quality of the pads. Rotor replacement will add to this cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can a single burnout ruin my brake pads?
While a single, brief burnout might not completely ruin your brake pads, it will certainly accelerate their wear and potentially cause some initial heat damage. Repeated burnouts will significantly shorten their lifespan.
Q2: How often should brake pads be replaced?
Brake pad replacement intervals vary greatly depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and the quality of the pads. However, a general guideline is every 25,000 to 70,000 miles. Driving aggressively or performing stunts like burnouts will drastically reduce this interval.
Q3: What are the signs of worn brake pads?
Common signs include squealing or grinding noises when braking, a spongy brake pedal, a longer stopping distance, and a visible reduction in pad thickness when inspecting them.
Q4: Is it illegal to do burnouts?
Yes, in most jurisdictions, performing burnouts on public roads is illegal and can result in fines, points on your licence, or even more severe penalties if it's deemed reckless driving and endangers others.
Final Thoughts
While the allure of a powerful burnout might be strong, the damage it inflicts on your vehicle's braking system, particularly the brake pads, is substantial. The accelerated wear, potential for component damage, and associated costs make it an unwise practice for any responsible car owner. Prioritising the longevity and safety of your braking system means avoiding such extreme manoeuvres and adhering to proper vehicle maintenance practices.
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