Why is one front wheel brake hot while the other is not?

[LeKate]

It is recommended to check whether the working performance of the brake caliper on the side with the hot brake disc has changed, and whether the installation position of the brake pads is proper. Below are the relevant explanations: 1. Brake pad heating: During normal operation of the brake system, friction between the brake pads and the brake disc inevitably generates heat, and it is normal for the brake disc to feel hot at this time. If the car is driving normally without any braking operation, and the brake disc becomes hot, this is abnormal. 2. Excessive temperature heating: During normal driving without braking operation, if the brake disc becomes hot, it indicates that the brake disc and the brake pads are not completely separated and there is still some friction. The distance between the brake pads and the brake disc should be adjusted. If the temperature exceeds the normal range and becomes excessively hot, there may be a problem with the components, and this should not be taken lightly. Causes and solutions for a hot brake disc: 1. Poor return of the brake caliper causing brake drag: In this case, the vehicle's brake caliper needs to be inspected and repaired. 2. Excessive braking during driving causing the brake disc to overheat: While driving, try to avoid frequent braking, as this not only easily causes the brake disc to overheat but may also lead to brake pad cracking and damage, resulting in brake failure and significant safety hazards.

[BradyAnn]

As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter uneven brake temperatures between the front wheels. Last time during a long-distance trip, I noticed the left wheel was scorching hot like a frying pan after parking, while the right wheel remained cool—a clear sign of brake imbalance. The root cause is usually a seized brake caliper that fails to retract, likely due to rusty guide pins or insufficient lubrication, causing the brake pads to continuously rub against the rotor and generate heat. While minor neglect may be tolerable temporarily, prolonged issues accelerate pad wear, increase fuel consumption, and—most critically—compromise braking efficiency, risking dangerous veering at high speeds. For safety, make it a habit to check wheel temperature differences after driving. If you detect significant heat, promptly visit a repair shop to replace the caliper or lubricate components. Routine maintenance with professional grease can prevent this issue—don’t wait for minor faults to escalate into major hazards.

[Penny]

As someone who always prioritizes driving safety, abnormal overheating of the front wheel brakes is a serious concern. One side being hot while the other isn't usually indicates an imbalance in the braking system, such as a caliper piston failing to retract properly or a warped brake disc, causing increased friction on one side. If ignored, uneven braking force during driving can easily lead to skidding or even loss of control during emergency stops. I recommend stopping immediately for inspection: after turning off the engine, lightly touch the wheel hub (wear gloves to prevent burns) to confirm the temperature difference; then contact a professional shop to check and test whether the brake fluid line pressure is normal. Remember, brake failure is a potential killer—don't skimp on small expenses. Spending a little on timely maintenance can save lives. Regularly checking brake pad thickness can also help warn of such hidden dangers.

[BriannaLynn]

I recently encountered this issue where the left front wheel gets hot while the right stays cool after driving. After checking, it's mostly caused by a stuck brake caliper or a problem with the wheel cylinder, leading to continuous friction and heat from one brake pad not releasing. It could be due to dust from poor road conditions clogging components or uneven wear. Short-term driving poses minimal risk, but prolonged neglect increases fuel consumption and risks brake disc warping, costing more. The safest approach is to get it repaired and parts replaced promptly. Meanwhile, monitor wheel temperature changes after driving as a preliminary check. Safety is paramount—regular maintenance and lubricating guide pins are key.