What are the reasons for the rear wheel of an electric vehicle getting stuck and unable to move?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why the rear wheel of an electric vehicle may not move: Brake pads are too tight: The brake pads are too tight or have fallen off, preventing the brake from fully releasing. Controller malfunction or phase error or short circuit: The phase wires overheat, the insulation melts, causing poor contact in the phase wires; a short circuit in the phase wires makes pushing the wheel difficult. Switch does not return to position: The electronic switch does not return to position when braking; the brake signal wire and turn signal wire are worn and short-circuited, or the brake pads are damaged. Screws on the brake have fallen off. Mechanical reasons: The rear wheel of an electric vehicle is equipped with a drive motor, and if the rear wheel suddenly stops turning, it must be due to a mechanical issue in the motor causing a "lock-up" phenomenon.
I've been repairing electric vehicles for over a decade, and there are several common reasons why the rear wheel gets stuck and won't move. Brake system lock-up is the most frequent issue, especially when disc brakes are improperly adjusted or contaminated with debris, which can easily jam the wheel. Chain problems are also common, such as rusted or broken chains getting tangled in the rear wheel, or wheel hub bearings aging and failing, causing the wheel to lock. In harsh weather, mud or stones stuck in the tire tread can also jam the wheel. I remember once helping a neighbor fix their bike—hardened mud stuck in the rear wheel after rain, and it worked fine after cleaning. I recommend first checking if the brakes are released by manually spinning the wheel. If it doesn't move, you might need professional tools for cleaning or adjustment. If you can't handle it yourself, don't force it—take it to a repair shop to avoid damaging the motor or wheel assembly. Regular maintenance, like lubricating the wheel hub and cleaning the chain, can prevent most issues. Simple care can avoid big troubles.
I've been commuting by electric bike for five years and have encountered the rear wheel suddenly locking up a few times. Possible reasons include the brake not fully releasing or the chain getting tangled with branches or fabric. For electric models, a controller malfunction might cause the motor to lock the wheel. Once, after riding in the rain, the rear wheel got caked with mud that hardened and locked it up, but washing it with water solved the problem. It's advisable to regularly check the tires and brake areas after riding to remove any debris. A locked wheel not only affects speed but can also wear out the tire or chain, so it's best to address it promptly. Try gently pushing the rear wheel or using tools to pry open the stuck point yourself; if that doesn't work, push it to a repair shop. Avoid forcing it on slopes—safety first, and protect your knees and back.
