Each wheel has its wheel bearings, so the average car should have four sets total. It would be very hazardous to drive with old or worn wheel bearings, as it may cause your wheels to stop turning unexpectedly. On average, you only have to replace your wheel bearings approximately every 85,000-100,000 miles .
How do you know if wheel bearings need replacing?
- Humming Noise. The most easily identifiable and common symptom of bad wheel bearings is audible. ...
- Squealing, Growling. ...
- Clicking Sound. ...
- Wheel Wobble. ...
- ABS Failure. ...
- Uneven Tire Wear. ...
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side. ...
- Steering Wheel Vibration.
How often do car wheel bearings need to be replaced?
Wheel bearings have an average lifespan of 136,000 to 160,000 km (approximately 85,000 to 100,000 miles) . This is only a rule of thumb though, the actual lifespan of a wheel bearing depends on the quality of the wheel bearing and the operating conditions.
How long does it take a mechanic to change a wheel bearing?
Replacing a single wheel bearing can take 90 to 120 minutes depending on the type of vehicle and complexity. There are a lot of moving parts that need to be maintained and properly sealed to complete this type of work.
How do I check for a bad wheel bearing?
Should you replace both wheel bearings at the same time?
Both wheel bearings have racked up the same number of miles, so it’s logical to conclude that both sides have probably experienced the same amount of wear. Based on this line of thinking, it would make sense to recommend replacing both wheel bearing hubs at the same time even though only one has obviously failed.
Should you replace wheel bearings in pairs?
Is a wheel bearing expensive?
On average, a wheel bearing will set you back $50 to $120 , while a new wheel hub costs around $200 to $500. Be careful when buying new bearings and wheel hubs as many cheap parts are unfortunately of low quality.
What causes wheel bearings to fail?
Driving in water that is hub deep or higher may allow water into the wheel bearing . This will contaminate the lubricant, causing potential wheel bearing failure. This is why the passenger side wheel bearings tend to wear out more quickly, since they spend more time in standing water in the gutter, when parked.
What happens if wheel bearing fails?
Q: What can happen if you have a bad wheel bearing? A: A bad wheel bearing can cause several potentially dangerous situations, starting with your vehicle not being as responsive as it should be . Your tires will also wear out faster, and you can experience uneven tire wear.
What does it sound like when a wheel bearing is going out?
Can I change my wheel bearing myself?
Changing your own wheel bearings is considered an intermediate job that can be done at home, but will need some speciality mechanic tools .
Is changing a wheel bearing a big job?
A front or rear wheel bearing replacement isn’t a huge job , however it is fairly complex and can be time-consuming even for the most experienced mechanics.
Is replacing a wheel bearing hard?
Is it easy to replace a wheel bearing at home? Replacing a wheel bearing that comes as an assembly with the hub and bolts to the spindle or steering knuckle is not very difficult if you have proper skills, tools and the manual . Of course, the large axle nut is very tight and can be difficult to remove.
How much does it cost to replace one wheel bearing?
What does it cost to replace wheel bearings? The cost to replace one front-wheel hub assembly varies widely. Some variables include the make and model, the garage’s labor rate and the cost for parts. The national average is about $350 to fix the wheel bearings at one wheel.
How long can I drive on a bad wheel bearing?
As to the distance covered on a bad wheel bearing, you shouldn’t exceed 1000 miles regardless of your speed. Driving distances over 1000 miles could lead to more severe complications and also puts your safety in jeopardy. Moving at a slow and steady speed of 40mph would be a good idea.
Can a bad wheel bearing sound like a flat tire?
Basically, a bad wheel bearing will not sound like a flat tire . A worn wheel bearing can cause the following noise: rattling, howling, popping, clicking, or humming sound. If you’re also hearing a rumbling noise when turning, then it’s likely a bad wheel bearing.
Can I just replace the wheel bearing and not the Hub?
On some cars, you can just replace the bearing and call it a day . On others, the hub assembly must be removed and replaced. The most difficult type involves removing the hub assembly and setting it in a press. If you’re not sure what type of wheel hub assembly you have, stop by or give your local Pep Boys store a call.
How many wheel bearings does a car have?
4 wheel bearings . 3 engine distribution bearings: 1 bearing for each of the 2 idler rollers, 1 for the water pump. 2 bump stops-suspension bearings (MacPherson) 2 seat adjustment bearings (roller freewheels for height adjustment)
