When your car's wheels start to make a humming or grinding noise, especially when turning, it's often an indication of a worn wheel bearing. Over time, the bearing can lose its lubricants, develop contaminants, and become damaged due to wear and tear, leading to premature failure and potential safety issues. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about worn wheel bearings, including the symptoms, DIY replacement steps, and when to seek professional help.
Symptoms of Worn Wheel Bearings:
The symptoms of worn wheel bearings can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the location of the faulty bearing. However, there are some common signs that can help you identify the problem early on:
- Grinding or humming noise from the wheels that gets louder as you increase speed or turn the wheel
- Vibration or shaking of the steering wheel or front end of the vehicle
- Uneven tire wear or unusual tire noise
- A wobbling sensation while driving
- ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
These symptoms indicate that you need to inspect your wheel bearings and determine the degree of damage. You can do it yourself if you're confident enough and have the necessary tools and equipment.
DIY Replacement Steps:
Replacing a front wheel bearing on most vehicles involves removing the wheel hub assembly, disassembling it, and pressing the old bearing out and the new one in. Here are the general DIY steps:
1. Gather the necessary tools and supplies, including a jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, pliers, hammer, chisel, wheel bearing press, and new bearings.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you're removing, jack up the car, and secure it on the stands.
3. Remove the lug nuts, the brake caliper, and the brake rotor from the wheel hub assembly. You may need to use pliers and a screwdriver to detach the brake line and the ABS sensor wires.
4. Remove the hub nut and washer with a socket wrench, and then remove the hub assembly from the knuckle. You may need to use a hammer and chisel to loosen the rust if they're stuck.
5. Place the hub assembly on a press, and carefully press out the old bearing and race from the backside.
6. Install the new bearing and race using a bearing press and an appropriate driver. Make sure the bearing is properly seated and aligned.
7. Reinstall the hub assembly, brake rotor, caliper, and other components in reverse order. Tighten the bolts and nuts to the recommended torque specifications.
8. Repeat the process for the other front wheel if needed.
Note: Be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. If you're not confident in your skills or experience, it's best to seek help from a professional mechanic.
Professional Replacement:
If the DIY approach is not for you, or you don't have the time or tools to do it, you can take your vehicle to a reputable shop for a professional replacement. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem, recommend the best solution, and ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. They have access to specialized tools, equipment, and training, and can often complete the job in less time with less hassle than a novice.
Conclusion:
Worn wheel bearings can cause various problems and pose a danger to your driving safety if left unchecked. By knowing the symptoms, DIY replacement steps, and when to seek professional help, you can address the issue and restore your car's performance and comfort. Remember to inspect your wheel bearings regularly and replace them as needed to avoid costly repairs and accidents.