A burning smell coming specifically from one wheel is almost always a stuck brake caliper. The caliper is the clamp that squeezes the brake pads against the rotor. When one side sticks, either partially applied or fully locked, the pad drags against the rotor continuously, generating intense heat even when you are not pressing the brake pedal. That heat is what you are smelling, and it is concentrated at that wheel because that is where the friction is happening.
Why calipers stick
Brake calipers contain pistons and seals that allow them to apply and release the brakes smoothly. Over time, those seals can dry out, crack, or corrode — especially with Michigan's road salt exposure during Ann Arbor winters. Corrosion on the caliper slides or guide pins is another common cause. When the caliper cannot fully retract, the brake pad stays in contact with the rotor. The high pressure of the brake hydraulics forces the brakes on, but the rust or corrosion keeps them applied. You may also notice your Jeep pulling to the left during braking, or that the left front wheel and rim are noticeably hotter to the touch than the right side after a drive.
Left unaddressed, a dragging caliper will destroy the brake pad and rotor on that corner very quickly. The heat generated can also damage the wheel bearing and surrounding components. In extreme cases, the brake fluid in the caliper can overheat and boil, leading to brake fade or pedal issues.
Hoover Street Auto Repair in Ann Arbor regularly diagnoses and repairs Jeep stuck calipers and can determine whether the calipers, the slides, or both need attention.