The Ultimate Guide to Replacing Front Wheel Bearings

A grinding or humming noise coming from the front of your vehicle could be an indication that it's time to replace the front wheel bearings. This is a common repair that can be done at home with the right tools and a little patience.

What Are Front Wheel Bearings?

Wheel bearings are precision components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and with minimal friction. They are typically made of hardened steel and are housed in a sealed bearing hub. The front wheel bearings are responsible for carrying the weight of the vehicle and handling the forces generated by braking, accelerating, and cornering.

Symptoms of Bad Front Wheel Bearings

The most common symptom of a bad front wheel bearing is a grinding or humming noise that increases in volume and pitch as the vehicle speeds up. Other symptoms can include:

• A vibration in the steering wheel or floorboard
• Difficulty steering
• A loose or wobbly wheel
• Uneven tire wear
• Reduced fuel economy

Causes of Bad Front Wheel Bearings

Front wheel bearings can fail for a variety of reasons, including:

• Wear and tear: Over time, the bearings can become worn and damaged due to the constant friction and heat generated by the wheels.
• Contamination: Dirt, water, or other contaminants can enter the bearing hub and damage the bearings.
• Impact damage: Hitting a curb or pothole can shock the bearings and cause them to fail.
• Lack of lubrication: The bearings need to be properly lubricated in order to operate smoothly. If the grease dries out or becomes contaminated, the bearings can overheat and fail.

How to Replace Front Wheel Bearings

Replacing front wheel bearings is a job that can be done at home with the right tools and a little patience. Here are the steps involved:

1. Safety first: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Chock the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
2. Remove the wheel: Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel. Lift the vehicle with a jack and remove the wheel.
3. Remove the brake caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper and lift it off the rotor. Do not disconnect the brake hose.
4. Remove the rotor: If the rotor is stuck, use a rubber mallet to tap it loose.
5. Remove the hub and bearing assembly: Unbolt the hub and bearing assembly from the steering knuckle.
6. Press out the old bearing: Using a bearing press or a large socket and hammer, press the old bearing out of the hub.
7. Press in the new bearing: Press the new bearing into the hub, making sure that it is seated properly.
8. Reassemble the hub and bearing assembly: Bolt the hub and bearing assembly back onto the steering knuckle.
9. Reinstall the rotor: Slide the rotor back onto the hub.
10. Reinstall the brake caliper: Bolt the brake caliper back onto the rotor.
11. Install the wheel: Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.
12. Lower the vehicle: Use a jack to lower the vehicle back to the ground.
13. Torque the lug nuts: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.

Tables

Table 1: Front Wheel Bearing Replacement Costs

Table 2: Common Front Wheel Bearing Problems

Table 3: Tools Required for Replacing Front Wheel Bearings

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not replacing the hub and bearing assembly together: The hub and bearing assembly is a sealed unit, so it is important to replace both components at the same time.
• Installing the new bearing incorrectly: The new bearing must be installed properly in order to function correctly. Make sure that it is seated all the way in the hub.
• Not torquing the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications: The lug nuts must be torqued to the manufacturer's specifications in order to ensure that the wheel is properly secured.

FAQs

How long does it take to replace front wheel bearings?

The time it takes to replace front wheel bearings will vary depending on the vehicle and your level of experience. In general, it will take between 2 and 4 hours to complete the job.

How much does it cost to replace front wheel bearings?

The cost to replace front wheel bearings will vary depending on the vehicle and the labor rates in your area. In general, you can expect to pay between $300 and $700 for the parts and labor.

Can I replace front wheel bearings myself?

Yes, it is possible to replace front wheel bearings yourself. However, it is important to have the right tools and experience before attempting this job. If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle, it is best to have the work done by a mechanic.

What are the signs of bad front wheel bearings?

The most common sign of bad front wheel bearings is a grinding or humming noise that increases in volume and pitch as the vehicle speeds up. Other signs can include vibration, difficulty steering, and uneven tire wear.

How often should I replace front wheel bearings?

Front wheel bearings typically last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the lifespan of the bearings can be affected by a number of factors, such as driving conditions and the weight of the vehicle.

Can I drive with bad front wheel bearings?

It is not safe to drive with bad front wheel bearings. The bearings can fail at any time, which could cause the wheel to come off the vehicle.

Call to Action

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of bad front wheel bearings, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Replacing front wheel bearings is a relatively straightforward job that can be done at home with the right tools and a little patience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself the cost of having the work done by a mechanic.