What Causes One Rear Wheel to Stop Turning?

[DelKingston]

One rear wheel not turning can be caused by prolonged parking, sticking of the master cylinder cup, failure of the brake caliper to retract, or the brake friction pads being frozen due to icing. Below is relevant information about tires: 1. Main materials of tires: The primary material of tires is rubber, which has the characteristic of aging after prolonged use or storage, leading to significant changes in physical properties such as hardness and wear resistance. Continued use of aged tires may lightly affect vehicle performance or, in severe cases, result in tire blowouts. 2. Tire lifespan: Generally, all-season or economy tires have a lifespan of 3-5 years or about 50,000 kilometers. Under normal circumstances, tires manufactured within one year have a sufficient service life.

[ConnorLynn]

I remember this happening last year when I was driving my old car. The right rear wheel suddenly stopped moving, which scared me and I quickly pulled over. Common causes are either the brake caliper seizing up, where dust or rust inside locks the wheel, or the wheel hub bearing wearing out too much and getting stuck. If it's a rear-wheel-drive car and that wheel has an issue, a differential failure could also prevent power from being transmitted. Checking is simple: turn off the engine, get out, and gently push the wheel to see if there's resistance. But be careful not to force it, as you might damage the tire or suspension system. Repairs might cost a few hundred to a thousand yuan to replace small parts. Regular car washes to prevent mud buildup can help avoid this. This experience reminded me how crucial regular brake system maintenance is, especially for aging vehicles which are more prone to such issues.

[VanPhoebe]

Having played with cars for many years, a non-moving rear wheel is mostly a mechanical issue. The brake caliper is the most common problem, getting stuck due to insufficient or dirty hydraulic fluid, making the wheel feel like it's tied up. If it's a drive wheel issue, there might be problems with the differential or axle not distributing power. A damaged wheel hub bearing can also cause the wheel to seize, especially with noticeable noise on bumpy roads. For self-inspection, pop the hood and check for oil leaks or abnormalities in related components. Repairs aren't complicated—just replacing the caliper or bearing, costing a few hundred bucks. But don't take it lightly; delaying fixes might damage other systems, like brake fluid leaks posing safety hazards. I always advise friends to test-drive and check wheel smoothness before buying a car, and that annual preventive maintenance is the most cost-effective.

[DelNatalie]

A rear wheel not turning is extremely dangerous; stop immediately and do not drive. The main causes lie in the braking system or drivetrain, commonly issues like a seized caliper locking the wheel or a damaged bearing causing resistance. Testing whether the wheel spins freely can help diagnose the problem initially. In an emergency, it's best to call a tow truck and have it inspected at a professional shop. Repairs may include part replacements, with costs depending on the severity. While driving, pay attention to unusual noises or a stiff brake pedal, as these can indicate early signs of trouble. Simple regular cleaning of the wheels can prevent many issues. Safety first—never take risks.