Why Does the Inner Axle of a Wheel Rust?
2 Answers
During normal driving, the inner axle of a car's tire can come into contact with moisture, leading to rust. For mild rust conditions: You can use high-grit water sandpaper to sand the rust away until the surface is clean. This method is suitable for car owners with strong DIY skills. However, a side effect is that it may damage the protective layer on the axle's surface, accelerating future rusting. Applying a layer of primer afterward can help mitigate this. For more severe rust conditions: The most effective method is to use a rust remover. You can purchase a bottle of rust remover from an auto detailing shop. First, thoroughly clean the wheel hub axle, then spray an appropriate amount of rust remover on the rusted areas. Use a brush to scrub the rusted spots until they are clean, and finally rinse with water.
I've been driving for over a decade and found that wheel hub rust is a common issue. Last year, my old car encountered this problem, and upon inspection, it turned out that frequent driving in rainy weather caused water to splash in, wetting the metal components and making them prone to oxidation and rust. Additionally, driving on urban roads with salt-alkali conditions, especially in winter when de-icing salt is spread on the roads, accelerates the corrosion process. If the car's protective coating isn't well-maintained—such as aging paint or cracked sealant—the risk of rust increases significantly. Long-term accumulation of dirt or failure to dry the car properly after washing leads to moisture buildup inside, gradually making the hub brittle and reducing its strength. Over time, you might notice less responsive steering, and in severe cases, it could even seize up, leading to accidents. So now, after every car wash, I use a soft cloth to dry the area around the wheel hubs to prevent water retention, and I regularly apply some rust inhibitor to extend their lifespan.
