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Smoke From A Wheel

Smoke and a hot smell from one wheel usually means a brake is overheating, from a sticking caliper, a parking brake that has not released or heavy braking downhill.

Short answer · What does smoke from a wheel mean?

The brake on that wheel is much hotter than it should be. Most often a caliper or the parking brake is not releasing, so the pads drag. After long downhill braking it can also be a sign of overheated brakes. Stop, let it cool and do not touch the wheel. Have the brake checked before driving on.

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Safe checks you can do

  1. Stop and let it coolPark away from dry grass and do not use the parking brake if it is the cause.Do not touch the wheel or pour water on very hot brakes.
  2. Check the parking brakeMake sure it is fully released and the warning light is off.
  3. Feel the wheel heat from a distanceOne wheel much hotter than the others confirms a dragging brake.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. Did the car feel like it was dragging?A sticking caliper.
  2. After a long descent?Overheated brakes; use lower gears downhill.
  3. Is the parking brake electric?An actuator fault can keep it on.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Sticking caliperPiston or slides seized.
  2. Parking brake not releasingCable or electric actuator.
  3. Overheated brakesLong descents or heavy use.
  4. Leaking grease or oil on hot partsLess common.

Questions about Smoke From A Wheel

Can I drive to a garage after it cools?

Only if the brake releases and the wheel turns freely; otherwise have it recovered.

Why use a lower gear downhill?

Engine braking keeps the brakes from overheating.