Is rust inside the car wheel hub a serious issue?
3 Answers
It's not a serious issue. For most vehicles, the components securing the brake discs and the entire wheel assembly are made of iron. Here is some relevant information: Introduction: The wheel hub, known in English as Wheel Hub or Wheel Hub Unit, is the cylindrical metal component inside a car tire that supports the tire centered around the axle. Simply put, it is the part at the center of the wheel where the axle is mounted, serving as a crucial component connecting the brake drum (or brake disc), wheel disc, and axle. Tire: The so-called 'tire' refers to the rubber part of the 'wheel.' Being a flexible body, the inner contour of the tire is supported by a barrel-shaped component at the center mounted on the axle, which is called the wheel hub. Due to different language habits, many people have various names for the wheel hub, such as 'rim.' In southern regions, many people refer to it as 'tire bell' or 'car bell.'
As a veteran driver with nearly 30 years of experience, I believe that rust inside the wheel hubs must be taken seriously, especially when it comes to safety. The wheel hub is the metal component at the center of the wheel, and internal rust is mostly caused by corrosion from rainwater or road salt. Severe rust can affect wheel balance, causing significant steering wheel vibration while driving and even leading to brake system failure. I once experienced longer braking distances in rainy weather due to loose parts caused by rust. I recommend checking the wheel hubs at least quarterly—use a flashlight to inspect the interior for reddish-brown rust spots. For minor rust, apply anti-rust spray; for severe rust, immediately visit a repair shop for grinding or replacement—don’t delay. Regularly rinse the wheel hub area during car washes to prevent dirt buildup and accelerated corrosion. Developing good habits can save you a lot on repair costs.
When I first learned to maintain my car, I was particularly concerned about issues like wheel hub rust. Honestly, it's not a major problem but definitely shouldn't be ignored. Internal rust is usually caused by high air humidity or driving near rivers. At its mildest, it causes surface reddening, but in severe cases, it can lead to iron filings falling off and clogging the brake drum, affecting braking performance and potentially causing premature wheel wear. You can handle it simply yourself: first remove the rust by brushing off the surface layer, then use WD-40 spray for lubrication and protection, and regularly check during dry weather. Prevention is key—avoid parking in damp corners, and after washing the car, use compressed air to dry the internal gaps. It's low-cost and practical, making your daily driving smoother and more reassuring.
