Why Are the Rear Wheels Particularly Hot?
4 Answers
Reasons for the rear wheels being particularly hot are as follows: Rotation Issues: Manually rotate the inspected wheel several times to check if the rotation is smooth and if there are any unusual noises. If the rotation is not smooth and there is a friction sound, it indicates an issue with the braking system; if there is no noise but the rotation is uneven and intermittently tight and loose, it suggests a problem with the bearing. When these abnormal conditions occur, the wheel hub should be disassembled for inspection. Braking Issues: Inspection of the braking system. Typically, when inspecting the wheel hub bearings, the wheel braking mechanism is also checked. If there are oil stains on the inner side of the tire, it is likely caused by leakage from the brake wheel cylinder or brake fluid line, which should be addressed.
I've been driving trucks for over a decade and seen plenty of cases with overheating rear wheels. Most likely it's a brake system issue, like a stuck brake caliper or poor brake pad retraction. Think about it - if the brake pads don't release and keep rubbing against the rotor, the temperature will keep rising. Another possibility is overloading - when the rear wheels bear too much weight from cargo, the increased friction between tires and road surface also generates heat. Last time I hauled a load of steel, I experienced exactly this - when I stopped, the wheel hubs were burning hot to touch. You should immediately check if the brake caliper pistons are rusty and verify tire pressure. Safety first - get to a repair shop ASAP. Overheated wheels can lead to blowouts, especially on long hauls, so be extra careful.
Rear wheel overheating is usually caused by abnormal friction, with the focus on checking whether the braking system is functioning properly. The piston in the brake caliper may be stuck, preventing the brake pads from fully disengaging from the brake disc, leading to continuous friction and high temperatures. Excessive wear of the wheel hub bearing is also a common cause, as excessive clearance increases rolling resistance. Additionally, tire-related issues should be considered, such as severe underinflation causing increased deformation and friction. You can initially assess the situation by manually rotating the rear wheel to feel the resistance. Remember to check if the brake pad thickness is within a reasonable range and if there are any abnormal noises from the bearings. If you encounter this phenomenon, do not continue driving, as high temperatures can accelerate part aging and may even burn out the bearings or ignite the tires.
As a female car owner, I pay special attention to vehicle safety issues. Sudden rear wheel overheating can be quite alarming, possibly due to the brake not being fully released. Last time when I drove home, I noticed the right rear wheel was scalding hot, and later inspection revealed it was caused by a stuck parking brake cable leading to slight locking. Insufficient tire pressure is another reason, just like when my best friend drove on the highway with low tire pressure, the entire rear wheel heated up so fast it almost smoked. Now before every long trip, I ask my husband to help check the tire pressure and also inspect whether there are plastic bags or similar items tangled in the wheel arch. I suggest you park and rest for half an hour before continuing your journey. If the temperature doesn't drop, be sure to find a nearby repair shop for assistance.
