What happens if brakes become too hot?

When brakes become too hot, the function of the brakes deteriorates, a phenomenon known as brake fade. This occurs because excessive heat can lead to the breakdown of the brake lining material, reduced friction between the brake pads and rotors, and potentially air or vapor forming in the brake lines if hydraulic brakes are used. As a result, the brakes may respond less effectively, increasing stopping distances and compromising vehicle control.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of overheating brakes. For instance, while it may seem logical that a vehicle could accelerate due to brake failure, the reality is that the brakes becoming ineffective can lead to dangerous situations rather than causing acceleration. Increased brake effectiveness is counterintuitive to the overheating condition, as heat diminishes braking capability. Lastly, while there might be a correlation between heavy braking and fuel consumption, overheating itself does not directly cause an increase in fuel consumption as a primary factor. Therefore, it's crucial to recognize that deteriorating brake function is the primary concern when brakes get too hot.