Introduction
Wheel bearings play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and safe driving. When these bearings fail, it can lead to a range of issues, including noise, vibration, and decreased safety. Replacing wheel bearings on a Subaru can be a challenging but rewarding task, and this guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to tackle it with confidence.
Wheel bearings are precision components that allow wheels to rotate smoothly while supporting the vehicle's weight. They consist of two main components:
Between these races are a series of small, hardened steel balls or rollers that facilitate rotation.
Wheel bearings are crucial for several reasons:
Several signs indicate that wheel bearings ممکن require replacement. These include:
Before starting any work, ensure you have the necessary tools and observe safety precautions:
Tools:
Safety precautions:
Replacing a wheel bearing on a Subaru requires attention to detail and a methodical approach:
Remove the wheel: Use the socket wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, then detach the wheel.
Disconnect the brake caliper: Remove the brake caliper bolts and disconnect the brake line. Hang the caliper using a bungee cord.
Remove the rotor: Slide off the brake rotor by hand.
Remove the hub nut: Using an impact wrench, loosen and remove the hub nut.
Separate the hub from the knuckle: Use a ball joint tool to separate the hub from the lower control arm.
Extract the old bearing: Drive a chisel and hammer into the gap between the bearing and the knuckle to extract the old bearing.
Clean and inspect the knuckle: Remove any debris from the knuckle and carefully inspect it for damage. Repair or replace the knuckle if necessary.
Prepare the new bearing: Apply a thin layer of sealant to the outer race of the new bearing.
Install the new bearing: Slide the new bearing onto the knuckle and tap it into place using a drift. Ensure it sits flush.
Lubricate the components: Apply grease to the hub mating surface and the inner race of the new bearing.
Reassemble the hub: Slide the hub onto the new bearing and tighten the hub nut to the specified torque.
Reattach the rotor: Slide the brake rotor back into place.
Reconnect the brake caliper: Position the brake caliper on the rotor and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
Bleed the brakes: Use a brake bleeder kit to release any air from the brake line.
Install the wheel: Reattach the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
Replacing Subaru wheel bearings can be more manageable if you follow these strategies:
Replacing worn or damaged wheel bearings is essential for several reasons:
The cost of replacing Subaru wheel bearings varies depending on the model, year, and labor rates. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 per wheel, including parts and labor.
If you have any of the signs of failed wheel bearings, do not delay replacing them. Schedule an appointment with a mechanic or tackle the task yourself using the information provided in this guide.
Remember, safe and reliable driving depends on properly functioning wheel bearings. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure your Subaru is running at its best.
Story 1:
One driver, known for their thriftiness, decided to replace their own wheel bearings using a "creative" method. They heated the bearings with a blowtorch to expand them, hoping to slide them into place more easily. Unfortunately, the heat caused the bearings to lose their temper and shatter into a thousand pieces.
What we learn: Patience and the right tools are always better than shortcuts.
Story 2:
Another driver, overly confident in their mechanical abilities, attempted to replace a wheel bearing without using a torque wrench. They tightened the hub nut "as tight as they could" with an impact wrench. As they drove down the road, the hub nut loosened, causing the wheel to detach and roll off into traffic.
What we learn: The importance of following proper torque specifications cannot be overstated.
Story 3:
A third driver, who had neglected to replace their wheel bearings for far too long, found themselves with a sudden and catastrophic failure. As they rounded a corner, the wheel bearing crumbled apart, sending the wheel flying into a ditch. The driver, miraculously uninjured, was left contemplating their life choices.
What we learn: Ignoring maintenance can have dire consequences.
Table 1: Subaru Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost
Subaru Model | Average Cost |
---|---|
Impreza | $300-$400 |
Legacy | $350-$450 |
Outback | $400-$500 |
Forester | $450-$550 |
WRX | $500-$600 |
Table 2: Signs of Failed Wheel Bearings
Symptom | Possible Cause |
---|---|
Grinding, growling, or humming noise | Worn bearing surfaces |
Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle | Damaged or misaligned bearings |
Loose wheel | Excessive play in the bearing |
Premature tire wear | Uneven weight distribution due to worn bearings |
ABS warning light | Reduced wheel speed sensor signals |
Table 3: DIY Wheel Bearing Replacement Tools
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Socket wrench set | Loosening and tightening bolts and nuts |
Torque wrench | Applying precise torque to critical fasteners |
Ball joint tool | Separating the hub from the control arm |
Hammer | Driving a chisel and drifting in bearings |
Chisel | Extracting old bearings |
Drift | Inserting new bearings |
Sealant | Sealing bearing surfaces |