Stop
Smoking brakes can be a fire risk; pull over immediately, do not touch the hot components, and don't continue driving until the cause is found and fixed.
Symptoms
- Visible smoke or haze rising from one or more wheels
- Possible burning smell along with the smoke
- Car may pull slightly toward the smoking side
Likely causes
- CommonStuck or seized brake caliperA caliper piston that won't retract keeps the pad pressed against the rotor, generating continuous heat.
- CommonParking brake left engaged, even partiallyDriving any distance with the parking brake on can heat the rear brakes to smoking levels.
- PossibleCollapsed brake hose restricting fluid returnFluid gets pushed to the caliper but can't return properly, keeping the brake applied.
- PossibleRecent brake overheating from a long descent or hard brakingExtreme but temporary heat buildup can smoke even without a mechanical fault.
What to do
- Pull over safely as soon as you notice smoke from a wheel.
- Confirm the parking brake is completely released.
- Do not touch the wheel or brake components, since they will be extremely hot.
- Let the car sit and cool for at least 20–30 minutes before checking further.
- Once cool, check if that wheel spins freely by hand (car safely supported) compared to the others.
- If the wheel doesn't spin freely, do not drive the car; have it towed rather than risking further damage or a fire.
- Have a mechanic inspect and repair the stuck caliper, hose, or parking brake mechanism.
Tools and parts
Brake caliperSearch: “brake caliper for your car make and model”
When to call a pro
Have the car towed to a mechanic if the wheel doesn't spin freely once cooled; don't attempt to drive it further.
Safety
Stop
Smoking brakes can be a fire risk; pull over immediately, do not touch the hot components, and don't continue driving until the cause is found and fixed.