How do i change a wheel bearing

Last Updated: January 23, Fact Checked.

In this blog article, we will provide a step-by-step guide of how to replace a wheel bearing on a vehicle or piece of equipment. Once you have determined that a wheel bearing replacement is necessary, here are some easy steps for you to follow. First, gather all the equipment and materials you will need to replace your wheel bearings. This includes wheel chocks, a wheel brace or socket, jack, and grease to lubricate the new wheel bearing. You may want to have some penetrating oil on hand to help loosen any seized bolts. Also, ensure you have purchased the correct new wheel bearing for your vehicle or machinery. Finally, make sure you have plenty of clean rags or paper towels handy to wipe up any mess that may occur during the repair process.

How do i change a wheel bearing

In this video the focus is on the first generation type wheel bearing without a magnetic encoder seal. The example shown here is for a front wheel bearing from a Toyota Corolla. Tip: This helps to prevent damage to the drive shaft threads and is also a reason to discard the nut. Tip: In case the nut is rotating with the ball joint, press the ball joint further into the knuckle arm. The nut can now be loosened. It is possible to hammer the end of the knuckle mounting arm lightly to loosen and remove the ball joint. Tip: For safe removal ensure that there is enough contact between the end face of the inner ring and the separator. Tip: By cleaning the parts before assembly the mounting is less problematic and premature failure can be avoided. Tip: Only remove the bearing from its protective packaging immediately before the fitting. Tip: Torque settings can vary significantly between car models.

Article Summary. If you are changing the front wheel bearings, you can twist the steering wheel to provide the most working space possible. Use a suitable tool that comes in contact with only the end face of the outer ring.

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Most people don't realize if or when wheel bearings need service -- we just drive, never really thinking about them. Car manufacturers generally recommend a wheel bearing clean, inspection and repack every 30, miles, and any bearing found to have scoring and pitting requires replacement. This inspection is usually done along with front brake service. If your wheel bearings become noisy, it's important to take your vehicle in for inspection or take the time to check them out yourself. These instructions apply to bearings in a non-drive wheel. In other words, if your car is front wheel drive, we're talking about the rear wheel bearings. If it's rear wheel drive, you'll be replacing the front wheel bearings. Make sure that your car is parked on a level grade, rather than on any sort of hill or inclined driveway. Jack the car up, placing jack stands under the frame to support the vehicle.

How do i change a wheel bearing

Last Updated: January 23, Fact Checked. This article was co-authored by Hovig Manouchekian. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the process of auto repair and maintenance. He is also very knowledgeable in common automotive issues and needs including engine repair, battery replacement, and windshield accessory and maintenance. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed , times. Wheel bearings are a vital part of a vehicle's suspension. Usually located in the wheel's hub, rotor, or brake drum, bearings help the wheel rotate smoothly when the vehicle moves. If you notice a humming or whirring noise while you are driving or your ABS light turns on, it may be time to change your bearings.

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Therefore check the manufacturer values. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. For example, you would place wheel chocks behind the rear tires if you are fixing a front wheel bearing and behind the front tires if you are working on a rear wheel. Mulawarman No. Dixon Jul 20, When you're all done, carefully lower the car back down to the ground with your jack. Luckily, most vehicles come with a jack for just this purpose. The next step is to loosen the nuts on the wheel using a wheel brace or socket. To prevent dangerous slippage, make sure that the vehicle is securely seated on the jack and that the jack is flush with the ground before attempting to lift the wheel. To install a new set of bearings inside the hub, read on. There is no reason to go underneath the vehicle when changing your wheel bearings. Fix the dust cover to the knuckle. Make sure the vehicle is raised high from the ground so that you have enough room to work.

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If you have a workshop manual handy, check it for torque specs. Reinstall the brake rotor and calliper by sliding them over the axle, lining up the bolt holes, and tightening the bolts back on with a socket. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. With care and patience guided by these tips, even a novice like me can likely DIY small repairs. If it is hard to remove, screw a bolt into the exposed threaded hole on the disc to remove it. Insert the split pin. After this, carefully lift your wheel. The wheel's outer bearing should loosen or fall out. Remove the cotter pin with pliers or wire cutters, then unscrew the castle nut and remove it and its washer. Not Helpful 10 Helpful Remove the Brake Calliper and Bracket Next, you need to remove the brake calliper and bracket. Contact us today! Gain confidence tackling repairs. Advice from our readers makes our articles better.