Got home one night after a half hour drive. When I stepped out of car, I smelled a burned rubber type of smell. Checked my tires and the back left one was really hot and the smell came from there. Couldn't figure out what was wrong. After that, it didn't happen again until a few weeks later. I can't afford to go to the mechanic right now. Any idea what would be causing this? It doesn't happen all the time. So far it has happened three times in 1 1/2 months. Not sure if it's my brakes. Any suggestions would be appreciated. By the way, my car is a 1996 Nissan Maxima.

First off is the tire pressure correct? You may have a tire that is failing. If it has run flat in the past the sidewall may be damaged. It might need replacing.

It could also be a rear caliper that is not releasing or an emergency brake shoe that is getting hung up. As CDO3 says, check the tire pressure for sure but the next time it happens, see if the rear wheel hub for that wheel is also very hot.

Check make sure to check and make sure there is no debris or brake dust in the rear drums and clean them that should help

Yes, the tire pressure is correct. And yes, the wheel hub was very hot. I will check on the things you guys mentioned. Thank you very much. Appreciate all the suggestions.

Another thought---Could also be a wheel bearing but when they go bad they usually separate or seize up.

Be interested in the solution, Brian