What Causes the Front Wheel Hub to Overheat?
2 Answers
Here are the related reasons for the front wheel hub overheating: 1. Hub (axle head) overheating: The bearing is too tight or abnormally worn. The wheel hub is located at the innermost part of the brake drum, which is the axle head where the bearing is installed after disassembly. Hub (axle head) overheating is usually caused by excessive bearing tightness or poor lubrication. High temperatures can cause the grease inside to melt and flow out, affecting braking performance, and in severe cases, it can burn out the bearing. 2. Brake drum overheating: It heats up whenever the brakes are applied and is the part of the front wheel that generates the most heat. The temperature of the brake drum is related to ambient temperature, driving speed, frequency of braking, vehicle weight, and road conditions. A few brake applications can raise the temperature to 100-200 degrees, and even up to 300 degrees or more for heavy trucks going downhill.
The front wheel hub of my car recently became excessively hot, which scared me into pulling over immediately. The main causes are usually issues with the braking system, such as stuck brake pads or caliper pistons not retracting, leading to continuous friction and heat generation. Worn wheel hub bearings or insufficient lubrication can also cause high temperatures due to friction. Additionally, underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to abnormal deformation and wear, indirectly heating up the wheel hub. Prolonged high-speed driving or frequent hard braking can also accumulate heat. For safety, if you notice the wheel hub is hot to the touch, stop and inspect: feel the temperature, listen for unusual noises, and spin the wheel to check for smooth rotation. It's advisable to visit a professional repair shop promptly to avoid potential fires or accidents. For prevention, regular maintenance of brakes and bearings, as well as maintaining proper tire pressure, is crucial.
