What to Do When the Rear Wheels Sometimes Lock Up?

[McLuna]

Solutions for occasional rear wheel lock-up: 1. When the rear wheels lock, try moving forward and backward about three times. Avoid repeatedly forcing the tires back and forth as this can cause severe tire wear; 2. Pour boiling water at 100°C over the brake pads, then move forward and backward about three times; 3. If the brake pads and brake drum expand due to heat, they may automatically separate; 4. Seek professional repair by towing the vehicle to a professional auto repair shop for a comprehensive inspection and maintenance. Wheel lock-up refers to the situation where static wheel lock-up occurs when the vehicle is parked, causing one or more wheels to slide when the driver restarts, preventing normal vehicle operation.

[LaEthan]

As a car enthusiast, I've driven many vehicles, and sometimes the rear wheels lock up because the brake calipers get stuck. When rainwater or mud gets in, the parts are prone to rust, causing the brake pads to fail to release, which locks the wheels. If you feel resistance or difficulty accelerating while driving, don't panic—gradually slow down and pull over to check safely. Don't force the drive, as this can burn out the brake pads and increase risks. Regular maintenance is crucial—I clean the brake system every six months and lubricate the caliper slide pins to prevent sticking. If the issue occurs frequently, check whether the brake fluid is insufficient or leaking, as these affect braking force transmission. When working on it, you can use a jack to lift the rear wheel and try turning it by hand. If it doesn't turn, seek a professional repair shop. Safety first—don't risk driving. Developing a habit of checking tire pressure can also extend the brake system's lifespan.

[LaylaMarie]

I often repair my car myself, and rear wheel lock-up is usually caused by a stuck brake caliper. After moisture or dust accumulates, the parts get stuck, and the wheel locks. You can first try: after parking, rotate the wheel to feel for resistance—if there's an issue, don't ignore it. Simple methods include checking the brake disc for scratches or unusual odors, but avoid disassembling complex parts yourself. Washing your car weekly and cleaning the wheel hubs can reduce the risk of corrosion. If you encounter a lock-up, stay calm—lightly press the brakes a few times to try and unlock the wheel. If that doesn’t work, call a tow truck. For prevention, I apply high-temperature grease to the caliper pins every quarter, which has saved me a lot of money. Also, pay attention to whether the ABS sensor is faulty, as it might cause the system to misjudge and lead to lock-up. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's safer to leave it to a technician. Remember, ignoring this small issue could damage the entire braking system.

[DeEsther]

As a new driver, experiencing rear wheel lock-up can be quite frightening. It's mainly caused by issues in the braking system, such as rusted calipers or stuck brake pads. When it happens, avoid slamming on the brakes to prevent skidding or losing control. Gradually slow down and pull over to the right. Before driving to the repair shop, don't restart the car to avoid further damage. Ask a friend to help check the brake fluid level; if it's too low, top it up. For safety, I've installed a dashcam to monitor tire conditions. Don't delay repairs for too long—saving money isn't worth compromising safety.