What are common factors that can cause brakes to fade or fail?

Brakes can fade or fail due to several common factors, and one significant cause is related to the condition of the braking system itself as well as the operational environment. When brakes are out of adjustment, they may not engage properly, leading to decreased stopping power. This can be exacerbated by excessive heat, which is generated during prolonged braking, such as on steep descents or in heavy traffic. When the brakes are used frequently without sufficient time to cool, the brake components, such as the brake drums or discs, can reach temperatures that compromise their effectiveness. This phenomenon, known as brake fade, results in a notable reduction in braking performance, which can be dangerous on the road.

The other factors mentioned in the other options do not directly relate to the braking system's primary function. Under-inflated tires and low fuel primarily impact vehicle handling and operational efficiency rather than brake failure. Worn-out engine parts and bad ignition are issues associated with engine performance rather than the braking mechanism. Overloaded cargo can put additional strain on the vehicle and affects handling but does not directly cause brakes to fade or fail unless it leads to excessive weight affecting other brake factors. Therefore, the combination of out-of-adjustment brakes and excessive heat is the primary concern when it comes