Why is there liquid leaking from the area between the tire and the wheel hub?
3 Answers
Because there is excessive wheel hub lubricating grease (butter), and the bearing temperature is too high, the wheel hub will leak oil during vehicle operation. Here is some related information about the area between the tire and the wheel hub: 1. Size matching: For the same tire width, due to the tire's design purpose, structure, and other reasons, the standard wheel rim may not necessarily be the same. The larger the wheel hub size, the higher the tire's aspect ratio, which improves the vehicle's handling stability. However, this also brings some disadvantages, such as a larger contact area between the tire and the ground, greater resistance during driving, and higher fuel consumption. 2. Repair method: Inspect the damage. If it does not reach the inner side of the wheel hub, it can be easily repaired. Use paint thinner to wipe around the damaged area to remove dirt. The deepest part of the scratch may be difficult to clean, in which case a toothpick can be used to thoroughly clean it. To avoid accidentally painting unrelated areas, it is best to carefully apply masking tape around the damaged area.
As someone who has long been concerned about car maintenance, I've seen quite a few cases of fluid leakage around the wheel hubs. The most common is probably brake fluid leakage, usually on the inner side of the tire, appearing transparent or slightly yellow with a slightly bitter smell. This often stems from aging brake caliper seals or damaged wheel cylinders. Another cause could be wheel bearing grease leakage, where the grease liquefies and spills out under high temperatures, looking oily and dull. For rear wheels, power steering fluid or shock absorber oil might also leak into this area. Ignoring these leaks can lead to softened brakes compromising safety or causing bearing failure and wheel lock-up. I recommend parking first to observe the leak's color and smell, then wiping it clean to check for re-seepage. For safety, immediately contact a repair shop to inspect the braking system and hub seals. Regular maintenance should include periodic checks of brake fluid levels and the integrity of wheel bearing dust covers. In short, timely action can prevent bigger issues. DIY replacement of small components can save money, but for major defects, it's more reliable to consult experts.
When I notice fluid leaking from the wheel hub area, resembling grease or oil, it usually indicates a malfunction in one of the car's systems. For instance, a damaged seal on the wheel hub bearing causing the internal lubricating grease to leak is quite common, especially in older vehicles. In hot weather, the grease softens and leaks more, feeling very slippery to the touch. Another possibility is cracks in the brake system components, such as a leaking caliper releasing brake fluid. This type of leakage may appear watery but feels greasy upon contact. If not repaired promptly, it could lead to brake failure at high speeds, which is extremely dangerous. I have a personal example from last summer when I noticed oil stains near the wheel. Upon inspection, it turned out to be an aging bearing seal. Replacing the seal resolved the issue. I recommend not delaying if you notice similar problems. After parking, check the brake fluid reservoir level. If it's low, take the car to a repair shop immediately to avoid compromising safety. Regular maintenance, such as inspecting the wheel hub dust covers and keeping them clean, can reduce such incidents and extend the lifespan. Paying attention to small details can save both money and hassle.
