Can a cracked wheel hub still be used?
3 Answers
A cracked wheel hub cannot be used anymore. Once cracks or gaps appear on the wheel hub, it can easily lead to slow air leakage in the tire. Additionally, the car may experience shaking while driving, which is quite dangerous. The wheel hub is a crucial component of a vehicle, responsible for ensuring safe and normal operation. Cracks in the wheel hub pose a safety hazard to the vehicle. The wheel hub is a cylindrical metal part that supports the tire from the inside and is mounted on the axle. It is also known as the rim, steel rim, or wheel. Wheel hubs can generally be divided into two types: painted and plated. Plated wheel hubs further include silver plating, water plating, and pure plating, among others.
Cracks on the inner side of the wheel hub really shouldn't be taken lightly. I encountered the same issue last month, and it felt quite dangerous. A cracked wheel hub can easily affect the brake disc, especially the inner part near the braking system. When driving, the braking performance can be compromised, and if it fails at high speeds, the consequences could be severe. I remember a news report about a car owner who had an accident due to loss of control because they didn't address a cracked wheel hub in time. I suggest you go to a professional auto repair shop for an inspection immediately. They can use tools to measure the depth of the cracks and check the stability of the braking system. Make it a habit to check the condition of your wheel hubs regularly, especially the inner side when washing your car. Early detection can save you a lot of trouble—don't try to save money by continuing to use a damaged hub. Safety comes first; this is no joking matter.
Let me tell you, if there are cracks on the inner side of the wheel hub, it's time to replace it. I've experienced something similar myself. That time after driving over rough roads, I heard strange noises. When I stopped to check, I found small cracks on the inner side of the wheel hub and immediately drove to the repair shop. The mechanic told me that wheel hub cracks could be caused by road impact or material fatigue, which could affect overall braking efficiency and wheel balance, and might even lead to brake failure. They usually first check if the cracks have spread, then use instruments to measure if the brake disc is deformed. If it's confirmed to be unrepairable, they replace the wheel hub and related components. Maintaining proper tire pressure can also reduce this risk, saving you from frequent repairs.
